DE102004016720A1 - Automatic cleaning system for lines of cow stalls has a rotating brush to reach into each stall and each stall and transfer muck to a muck clearing scraper - Google Patents

Abstract

An automatic cleaning system for a lines of cow stalls attached to an automatic milking system has the cowshed is divided into separate sections, each with a line of stalls (12) on one side of an access gangway (20) and with a line of feeding stations (22) on the other side of the gangway. The stalls allow the cows to lie and chew the cud before returning to the field. Before the cows return to the stalls each section is cleaned by an automatic system with rotating rushes which reach into each stall and transfer the muck to a muck scraper. The stalls are supplied with fresh litter after cleaning. The cows move into the stall via a collecting yard (50) and automatic milking station (60) and access gangways (64).

Description

The The present invention relates to a cleaning device for cleaning of adjacent cubicles adjacent to a gangway, a method of cleaning juxtaposed and on a walkway adjacent cubicles and a cleaning device comprehensive stable.

at The animals usually take livestock for milk production in a feeding area feed and water to oneself or rest, predominantly under ruminating, in a lounge area. It must the animals are milked and their stable cleaned. Milking the Animals, especially cows, and the cleaning of the stable, in particular the lying area claimed conventionally a very big one Time and effort. To reduce working time and the Milking work has become milking robots in recent years used. A milking robot is an automatic milking system. He is set up in a freewheeling stable so that the animals get away can milk yourself. However, this use of a milking robot has the following disadvantages with himself. Some animals do not want to volunteer on a regular basis milking the milking robot, so that their and thus the entire Milk production can not be increased or optimized. In want other cases some animals at all not be milked by a milking robot, so they finally no Produce more milk. Therefore, must The animals are closely monitored when using a conventional milking robot and optionally individually driven to the milking robot. Therefore the use of milking robots could save time and effort for the Do not significantly reduce operating staff when milking. Furthermore the average milk production of one herd per animal went down even back, because the monitoring especially for large ones Herds or stables not complete can be done and so many animals often enough or not at all be milked. Furthermore is a systematic cleaning of the individual cubicles in the lying area the animals can not be done if the animals are unsystematic Milked by a milking robot in the manner described above become. The labor and time required for a cleaning of the lying area was even increased. Furthermore, a cleaning of the lying area is not in one way and way possible, at the cows all in their periods of rest and especially when ruminating, that for the milk production one important role, not to be disturbed.

It Therefore, an object of the present invention, the disadvantages according to the state to eliminate the technology. In particular, a cleaning device, a stall and a method for cleaning cubicles provided which not only improves the hygienic conditions in the stable but at the same time the productivity of the animals and thus increased milk production and labor and time for the staff is reduced in milk production.

epiphany the invention

The The above object is achieved by a cleaning device for Cleaning of juxtaposed and adjacent to a gangway Cubicles for Cows are released, taking the cleaning device to the juxtaposed cubicles is movable past and at least one of the lying surfaces of the Cubicle cleaning brush includes.

These Invention allows a thorough cleaning by the lying area of the cows and the walkway can be systematically cleaned. Therefore, not according to the invention only the hygienic conditions improved in a stable, but at the same time can also increase the productivity of the animals and thus increased milk production and labor and time for the Staff in milk production are reduced. Because the systematic Cleaning is done in a very short time and in a very effective way Manner performed.

Preferably is the brush rotatable. In this case, its axis of rotation relative to the vertical to the lying surface of the Liebed be inclined, and the juxtaposed cubicles can be continuous through the movable past the cubicles cleaning device getting cleaned. In a further embodiment of the invention is the brush rotatable, with its axis of rotation substantially parallel to runs the walkway, adjacent to the cubicles. This embodiment also allows a continuous Cleaning of adjacent cubicles. The continuous Cleaning is particularly beneficial in a very short time, systematically and thoroughly feasible.

Further can the brush in the present invention according to a preferred embodiment in each cubicle in the direction from the top of the cubicle to the end of the cubicle, which faces the gangway, movable be. This can be the thoroughness the cleaning be further increased advantageous.

According to a further preferred Ausfüh In accordance with the invention, the cleaning device is arranged on a drooling device which can be moved forward and back again from a first end of the runway to a second end of the runway, at which the walkway opens into a second running passage.

In addition, can the cleaning device be attached to a manure slider, which can be moved back and forth in the walkway is.

According to one Another aspect of the present invention is a method for cleaning side by side and on a walkway adjacent cubicles for Cows provided, wherein the above-described cleaning device to the side by side arranged cubicles is moved past.

Preferably the cubicles are cleaned in the third of the individual Cubicles, which faces the gangway.

Further can after cleaning the cubicles fresh bedding, preferably chopped straw or sawdust comprises, are applied to the individual cubicles, preferably on the third of the individual cubicles, which faces the gangway is.

• (a) ein Zusammentreiben mindestens einer ersten Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in einem der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich eines Stalls aufhalten, wobei der Liegebereich die Liegeboxen umfasst, über einen ersten Laufgang, der zwischen dem Liege- und Fressbereich angeordnet ist, auf einen zweiten Laufgang, durch eine Viehtreibereinrichtung, die von einem ersten Ende des ersten Laufgangs zu einem zweiten Ende des ersten Laufgangs bewegt wird, an dem der erste Laufgang in den zweiten Laufgang mündet,
• (b) ein Hineintreiben der Gruppe von Kühen von dem zweiten Laufgang, gegebenenfalls über einen Vorwartehof, in einen Melkraum, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden;
• (c) das Reinigen der Liegeboxen des der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liegebereichs gemäß einem der vorstehenden Verfahren, und
• (d) ein Zurücktreiben der gemolkenen Kühe in den der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the cleaning method of the present invention comprises milking cows according to the following steps:

• (a) a grouping of at least a first group of cows, which are located in a lying and feeding area of a house assigned to the first group, the lying area comprising the lying boxes, via a first walkway, which is arranged between the lying and feeding area, to a second walkway, by a drover device which is moved from a first end of the first walkway to a second end of the first walkway, at which the first walkway leads to the second walkway,
• (b) driving the group of cows from the second gangway, optionally via a pre-waiting yard, into a milking room where the cows are milked;
• (c) cleaning the cubicles of the lying area associated with the first group according to one of the above methods, and
• (d) driving the milked cows back into the lying and feeding area associated with the first group.

These embodiment The invention has the advantage that no separate monitoring the animals and no separate milking of individual animals longer necessary is. Thus, the time and effort for the operating staff of a Stable for Significant reduction in milk production Furthermore, advantageously by this method according to the invention all animals forcibly milked the same number of times. This avoids that some animals are milked less often or not at all. By with the method according to the invention enabled regularity Milking can reduce the average productivity Herd per animal will be significantly improved. Moreover, this method allows for Cleaning that the lying area of the cows and the walkway systematically can be cleaned without the cows to disturb in a rest, especially when ruminating.

Advantageous can Animals according to their efficiency in milk production be divided into different groups and thus easier one Increase in performance of the different groups and thus of the total milk production become.

• (a') ein Zusammentreiben einer weiteren Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in einem der weiteren Gruppe zugeordneten weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich des Stalls aufhalten, über einen weiteren Laufgang, der zwischen dem weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich angeordnet ist, auf den zweiten Laufgang, durch eine weitere Viehtreibereinrichtung, die von einem ersten Ende des weiteren Laufgangs zu einem zweiten Ende des weiteren Laufgangs bewegt wird, an dem der weitere Laufgang in den zweiten Laufgang mündet,
• (b') ein Hineintreiben der weiteren Gruppe von Kühen von dem zweiten Laufgang, gegebenenfalls über einen Vorwartehof, in einen Melkraum, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden;
• (c') ein Reinigen der Liegeboxen des der weiteren Gruppe zugeordneten Liegebereichs gemäß einem der oben beschriebenen Verfahren, und
• (d') ein Zurücktreiben der gemolkenen Kühe in den der weiteren Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich, vorzugsweise mit der Maßgabe, dass die Schritte (a') bis (d') für die weitere Gruppe von Kühen nach den Schritten (a) bis (d) durchgeführt werden.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the above method comprises the following steps:

• (a ') a collection of a further group of cows, which are located in a further group associated with another lying and feeding area of the house, via a further walkway, which is arranged between the further lying and feeding area, on the second walkway, by a further drove device, which is moved from a first end of the further gangway to a second end of the further gangway, at which the further gangway terminates in the second gangway,
• (b ') driving the further group of cows from the second gangway, optionally via a pre-waiting yard, into a milking room in which the cows are milked;
• (C ') cleaning the cubicles of the further group associated lying area according to one of the methods described above, and
• (d ') driving the milked cows back into the lying and feeding area assigned to the further group, preferably with the proviso that the steps (a') to (d ') for the further group of cows after the steps (a) to (d) be performed.

at this embodiment the space of a stable can be used very well, and the number of Animals grouped together can be grouped together be that productivity of Animals is improved.

In a particularly preferred method according to the invention, steps (a ') to (d') are carried out with several further groups of cows, preferably of the kind that steps (a ') to (c) (d ') for each additional group of cows following steps (a') to (d ') for the preceding group.

at a preferred embodiment The present invention is achieved by actuating a first or optionally another first driving and shut-off devices) for driving out Cows out each of her cows in a group lying in her lying area stop the lying area assigned to their group, from this Lying area at the same time in the first or possibly further Laufgang driven, and the first or possibly the other (s) first (n) driving and shut-off devices) is or are designed so that the for the respective group assigned lying area for all cows of this group inaccessible shut off becomes.

In addition, through activity a second and optionally a further second propellant and Shutters) for driving cows out of their feeding area in the first or further walk between lying and feeding area and to shut off their feeding area, all the cows of a group that lives in Stop the feeding area assigned to their group from this feeding area at the same time in the first or possibly further walkway to be driven.

Preferably the driving of the first group of cows takes place in step (b) into the second Walkway by operation a drogue device extending from a first end of the first Walkway to a second end of the first walkway, where the second walkway is arranged, is moved.

In addition, can driving another group of cows in step (b ') into the second one Walkway by operation another cattle driving device, which from a first End of the further walk to a second end of the further walkway, where the second walkway is located, is moved.

Especially preferred is an embodiment of the method according to the invention, in which the cattle driving device or the further cattle driving device executed as a manure pusher is, and thus with the cattle driving device or the other cattle driving device Manure and other contaminants, including liquids, vacated in the respective gangway can be.

at a further advantageous embodiment of the invention before the operation the first and / or second and possibly the other first and / or another second drive and shut-off device, the drogue device and, if appropriate, the further cattle driving device (s) and / or before driving a group of cows from the second walkway, optionally via a Vorwartehof, in the milking room an audible signal, preferably a bell or horn signal, and / or optical signal given. Consequently can be achieved that the animals by habituation already with the acoustic and / or optical signal on the method for cleaning the cubicles and, where appropriate, be prepared for milking. For several Groups of animals can for every Group different acoustic and / or optical signals used become used to the animals can be. By habituation The animals can respond to one or more different signals after a short time Time essentially without mechanical or electrical stimulation according to the procedure of the invention are driven through a stable, so that the method for Cleaning the cubicles, including if necessary Method of milking to be performed without stress to the animals can, although the cubicles more often as cleaned in the known manner per day and if necessary every animal more often is milked. By avoiding stress can milk production the animals in addition be increased.

at a further embodiment of the method of the invention is prior to driving a group of Cows in the second walkway a barrier between the first walkway and the second walkway or between the further walkway and opened to the second walkway.

Further can after or during the bustle of a group of cows, optionally via a Vorwartehof, in the milking room, the barrier between the first Walkway and the second walkway or between the other walkway and the second walkway are closed.

at a further advantageous embodiment of the invention the cows Milked under recognition of each cow, and the milked Milk from each individual cow is analyzed, preferably by measurement the conductivity the milk. This can be beneficial early on a pregnant Animal or a change be recognized in the health of an animal. Especially preferred is therefore an embodiment of the Method of the invention, in which a Vorbeitreiben the milked Cows on a lock for the detection of the individual cows and possibly for the separation a cow from the group takes place.

The method according to the invention has the advantage that the lying area and also the first or further walkway can be systematically cleaned. In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, therefore, the daybed boxing a group of cows before repelling the milked cows in the lying and feeding area associated with this group. Particularly preferably, cleaning of the cubicles with the cubicle is started, which is arranged at the end of the first or further passage, which opens into the second passageway.

• – mindestens einen Liegebereich, der nebeneinander angeordnete Liegeboxen für mindestens eine Gruppe von Kühen umfasst,
• – einen Fressbereich mit Fressplätzen für die mindestens eine Gruppe von Kühen,
• – einen ersten Laufgang der zwischen dem Liege- und Fressbereich der ersten Gruppe angeordnet ist,
• – gegebenenfalls eine erste Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem Liegebereich in den ersten Laufgang und zum Absperren des Liegebereichs,
• – gegebenenfalls eine zweite Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem Fressbereich in den ersten Laufgang und zum Absperren des Fressbereichs.

In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a stable comprising the above-described cleaning device. In addition, the house according to the invention may comprise:

• At least one lying area, comprising cubicles arranged side by side for at least one group of cows,
• - a feeding area with eating places for the at least one group of cows,
• A first walkway which is arranged between the lying and eating area of the first group,
• - if necessary, a first driving and shut-off device for driving cows out of their lying area into the first walkway and to shut off the lying area,
• - If necessary, a second drive and shut-off device for driving cows out of their feeding area into the first walkway and to shut off the feeding area.

• – einen zweiten Laufgang, in den der erste Laufgang mündet,
• – eine Viehtreibereinrichtung zum Treiben der auf den ersten Laufgang zusammengetriebenen ersten Gruppe von Kühen von einem ersten Ende des ersten Laufgangs zu einem zweiten Ende des ersten Laufgangs und in den zweiten Laufgang hinein, wobei die Viehtreibereinrichtung von dem ersten Ende des Laufgangs zu dem zweiten Ende des Laufgangs hin- und herbewegbar ist;
• – gegebenenfalls einen Vorwartehof;
• – einen Melkraum,
• – gegebenenfalls eine Schleuse zur Erkennung einzelner Kühe und gegebenenfalls zur Absonderung einer Kuh aus einer Gruppe.

More preferably, the stable of the invention may comprise:

• - a second walkway into which the first passage opens,
• A drooling means for driving the first group of cows aggregated on the first gangway from a first end of the first gangway to a second end of the first gangway and into the second gangway, the drogue device extending from the first end of the gangway to the second end of the first gangway Walkway is reciprocable;
• - if necessary, a forecourt court;
• - a milking room,
• - where appropriate, a sluice to detect individual cows and possibly to separate a cow from a group.

The The present invention has the further advantage that with the cleaning device according to the invention a stable with a very high standard of hygiene can be provided with no increased space requirements for the Cleaning device is necessary. In addition, a large number be very thoroughly cleaned in cubicles in a very short time. Further can with the stable according to the invention the space exploited very efficiently, because instead of a variety of Facilities for droving, Misträumen and cleaning the cubicles according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the Invention for a all these functions are provided with appropriate facilities. The stable according to the invention especially only for a group of cows, which is assigned to a lying and feeding area, are executed. When the number of animals increases And the barn needs to be expanded in a simple way one or more other group (s) of animals in a crop or housed in several other annex to the previous stable be, with the milking room, the second walkway and possibly the Vorwartehof of the previous stable can be used further. So can a stable over can be used variably over a long period of time, and also the Investment costs can advantageous over be distributed over this long period of time.

Short description of the figures

1 shows a plan view of a stable according to the invention, which is adapted to carry out the cleaning method according to the invention.

2 shows a cross section through part of the stable of 1 according to the line II-II.

3 shows a cross section according to the 2 , wherein a driving and shut-off device for driving a cow is actuated from its lying area.

4 shows a cross section through part of the stable of 1 according to the line IV-IV.

5 shows a cross section through part of the stable of 1 as in 4 according to a further embodiment.

The The present invention will now be described in more detail by way of example of the figures and described with reference to preferred embodiments.

The 1 shows a plan view of a stable according to the invention, which is adapted to carry out the milking method according to the invention. To simplify the illustration are in 1 no cows shown. The stable includes a deck area 10 which can be assigned to a first group of cows. This lounging area comprises forty cubicles next to each other 12 in which the cows can lie down to ruminate or rest. In addition, the stable has a feeding area 20 which is also assigned to the first group of cows. The feeding area 20 also has forty feeding places 22 at a feeding table 25 for the first group of cows. Between the sunbathing area 10 and the feeding area 20 the first Group is a first walkway 30 arranged at one of its ends, the end 32 in a second walkway 40 empties. Furthermore, the stable has a forecourt 50 and a milking room 60 and means for expelling the cows of the first group from their lying area 10 in the first walkway 30 and in the second walkway 40 on. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the stable further comprises a lying area 110 which is associated with a second group of cows. This second lounge area includes another forty cubicles next to each other 112 , In addition, the stable has another feeding area 120 with forty eating places 122 at the feeding table 25 for the second group of cows on. In another embodiment of the invention, the second feeding area 120 a separate feeding table. To optimally use the room of the stable, the feeding table can be used 25 used for two groups of cows, as in 1 shown. Between the sunbathing area 110 and the feeding area 120 the second group is another walkway 130 arranged at one of its ends, the end 132 in the second walkway 40 empties. Furthermore, the stable has a device for driving the cows of the second group out of their lying area 110 in the further walkway 130 and in the second walkway 40 on. The in 1 stall shown also has a lounge area 210 which is associated with a third group of cows. This third deck area includes another forty cubicles next to each other 212 , In addition, the stable has another feeding area 220 with another forty feeding places 222 at the feeding table 125 for the third group of cows on. Between the sunbathing area 210 and the feeding area 220 the third group is another walkway 230 arranged at one of its ends, the end 232 in the second walkway 40 empties. Furthermore, the stable has a device for driving the cows of the third group out of their lying area 210 in the further walkway 230 and in the second walkway 40 on. Furthermore, in the stable is a lying area 310 to see, which is assigned to a fourth group of cows. This fourth sunbathing area consists of adjacent cubicles 312 , In addition, the stable has another feeding area 320 with eating places 322 at the feeding table 125 for the fourth group of cows on. In another embodiment of the invention, the fourth feeding area 320 a separate feeding table. To optimally use the room of the stable, the feeding table can be used 125 but used for the third and fourth group of cows, as in 1 is shown. Between the sunbathing area 310 and the feeding area 320 the fourth group is another walkway 330 arranged at one of its ends, the end 332 in the second walkway 40 empties. Furthermore, the house has a device for driving the cows of the fourth group out of their lying area 310 in the further walkway 330 and in the second walkway 40 on. Furthermore, the stable has a lying area 410 which is associated with a fifth group of cows. This fifth sunbathing area comprises forty additional cubicles next to each other 412 , In addition, the stable has another feeding area 420 with forty more eating places 422 at the feeding table 225 for the fifth group of cows on. Between the sunbathing area 410 and the feeding area 420 the fifth group is another walkway 430 arranged at one of its ends, the end 432 in the second walkway 40 empties. Furthermore, the stable has a device for driving the cows of the fifth group out of their lying area 410 in the further walkway 430 and in the second walkway 40 on.

The Number of cows, assigned to a group is not limited to forty. Of the Stable can rather be very variable to all possible limitations a farm for to be adapted to a stable. Preferably, the one Group of cows allocated lying area a cubicle per cow of the group. This has the advantage that, if necessary, all the cows of a group between two milkings can lie down. Because a long laytime leads to intensive ruminating, high salivary secretion, stable rumen environment, efficient utilization the feed, high blood circulation through the udder and thus too optimal milk synthesis and therefore high milk production. Furthermore Long lying in the cows prevents subclinical rumen acidosis and Klauenrehe (laminitis). Furthermore, the claws and the Relieves ligamentous apparatus and the joints of the cows. That's how well-being is and the health of the cows and thus the performance the cows for the Milk production improved.

Feed intake is also an important factor for optimal milk production, but the number of feeding places does not have to correspond to the number of cubicles of a group of cows, since the cows are usually longer time, ruminating or resting than they spend time eating. Thus, a number of feeding places in the amount of about 75% of the number of cubicles or cows, which are grouped in a group, is usually sufficient. The remaining space in a feeding area that is not used for feeding places can be used for one or more drinking areas per feeding area of a group of cows. In a further embodiment, feeding places are provided which have a smaller width than the cubicles. For example, eating places with a width of about 75-85 cm and cubicles with a width of 120-130 cm are sufficient. So also space for one or more potions can be won, whereby the number of the feeding places of the number the cubicles corresponds. This has the advantage that a lying and feeding area can be provided, which provides for each cow, which is assigned to this lying and feeding area a lying and feeding place. Advantageously, the drinker (s) are / are adapted to receive water for several animals, in particular cows, since a cow, as herd animal, prefers to drink water in company. Sufficient water intake is also an important factor for high milk production. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the stable has an additional drinking area, optionally in an additional dancer room (not shown), into which the animals are guided or driven after milking and before driving back into the lying and eating area assigned to the group , In this way, the cows can be brought to an optimal water absorption. A high water absorption immediately after milking is advantageous because it has been shown that a water intake immediately after milking, leads to an increase in milk production. According to this preferred embodiment, habituation of all animals of a group to an optimized water absorption can be achieved, whereby an improved overall milk production can be achieved. Preferably, the animals should receive more than 30% of their daily water needs immediately after milking. According to the embodiment of the invention in which the cows are led or led into a drinker area immediately after milking, the water intake can be readily trained immediately after milking at the level of more than 30% of the daily water requirement.

In a preferred embodiment of the house of the invention, the house comprises means for driving cows out of their lying area into the first one 30 or another walkway 130 . 230 . 230 . 330 or 430 and in the second walkway 40 , This device preferably comprises a drive and shut-off device for driving cows out of their cubicles 12 . 112 . 212 . 312 or 412 in a walkway adjacent to the cubicles 30 . 130 . 230 . 230 . 330 or 430 and to shut off the cubicles, so that they are no longer accessible to the cows driven out. This drive and shut-off device comprises a buoyancy stimulator, which can be moved into each cubicle and which is moved into its cubicle to drive a cow out of its cubicle and can be left there to shut it off.

At the end 32 the first walkway 30 where the first walkway to the second walkway 40 Preferably, a barrier or gate is provided so that the cows, the first lying and feeding area 10 . 20 are assigned, can not leave this, if the animals just should not be milked and stay in the lying and feeding area. Furthermore, such a barrier or gate is used to ensure that no animal of another group in the lying and feeding area 10 . 20 the first group can invade. At the respective ends 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the walkways 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 in which these gangways into the second gangway 40 each may be provided a corresponding barrier or a gate, so that the cows, the respective other first lying and feeding areas 110 . 120 ; 210 . 220 ; 310 . 320 ; 410 . 420 are assigned, they can not leave if the animals just should not be milked and stay in the lying and feeding area. Furthermore, such a barrier or gate serves to ensure that no animal of another group can penetrate into the lying and feeding area of the respective other group.

In 2 is part of the stable of 1 shown as a cross section according to the line II-II. A cow 15 in the lying and feeding area assigned to their group 10 and 20 can run around freely, just enters the cubicle 12 with the lying surface 13 , The cubicle is from the adjacent cubicles each via a bracket 14 separated. The lying area 10 opposite is the feeding area 20 arranged the the feeding places 22 and the feeding table 25 includes. The feeding table 25 is according to a preferred embodiment by a self-catching grid 24 as it is for example in the patents DE 198 42 412 and DE 101 16 559 is revealed from the feeding place 22 out for the cow 15 reachable. Particularly preferably, an automatically lockable self-catching or feeding fence can be used. Thus, before driving a group out of their lying and feeding area in the second walkway of the feed table for food intake are blocked. This embodiment is particularly advantageous when a feed table is provided for two groups of animals, such as at feed table 25 and 125 , Thus, by appropriate control of particularly preferred controllable self-catching or feeding gratings can be avoided that the animals of a group of another group, which has access to the same feed table, the food takes away. The feed table may be equipped according to the conventional state of the art and comprise, for example, a conveyor belt and / or a monorail system. Particularly preferably, the conveyor belt and / or the monorail system is set up and controllable so that feed can be replenished automatically, preferably certain amounts of feed at predetermined times, and / or feed or feed residues can be removed again. Particularly preferably, removal of feed or food remains takes place before the animals are driven out of their cubicles, so that the animals have no reason to stay in the feed area. Subsequently, a self-catching or feeding fence ge be locked so that the animals no longer have access to the feed table. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention is a feed table, which is associated with two groups of animals, such as feed table 25 and 125 split longitudinally so that part of the longitudinally divided feed table is accessible only to the one of the two groups of animals, and the other part of the longitudinally divided feed table is accessible only to the other of the two groups. The above-described drive and shut-off device for driving cows out of their cubicles 12 . 112 . 212 . 312 or 412 in a walkway adjacent to the cubicles 30 . 130 . 230 . 230 . 330 or 430 and to shut off the cubicles, so that they are no longer accessible to the cows driven out, comprises according to the in 2 shown embodiment 70 a buoyancy stimulator 76 that's about a rope or a wire 72 at the end of which he is attached, over the roll 74 in the cubicle 12 can be moved into it. The propellant and shut-off device according to the invention thus comprises in each cubicle movable buoyancy stimulators, which moves to drive a cow out of its cubicle into it and can be left there to shut off the cubicle. Particularly preferably, at least one buoyancy stimulator is provided for each cubicle. To shut off a cubicle 12 can the boost stimulator 76 in the cubicle 12 be left. According to 2 is the buoyancy stimulator 76 still far above the cubicle 12 so the cow 15 unhindered the cubicle 12 can enter.

In 3 is the partial cross section according to 2 shown, with the cow 15 for ruminating or resting in the cubicle 12 on the bed 13 lies. To drive up and down the cow 15 from the cubicle 12 is the drive and shut-off device 70 actuated. This is the buoyancy stimulator 76 that is at one end of the rope or wire 72 is attached, over the role 74 let down on the cow. Depending on the type of buoyancy stimulator 76 can the position of the role 74 be chosen above the cubicle, so that the buoyancy stimulator 76 the cow 15 contacted after lowering the buoyancy stimulator at a desired location. In another preferred embodiment, more than one buoyancy stimulator is placed in the cubicle 12 moved into it.

• (i) einen quer zu den Abtrennungen 14 verlaufenden und sich über die gesamte Breite der nebeneinander angeordneten Liegeboxen 12 erstreckenden Querträger, und
• (ii) an dem Querträger befestigte und sich in die Liegeboxen hinein bewegbare Auftriebsstimulatoren,

wobei der Querträger und/oder die Auftriebsstimulatoren von den Kopfenden 16 der Liegeboxen 12 zu den an dem Laufgang 30 angrenzenden Enden 18 der Liegeboxen bewegbar sind.In a further embodiment of the invention comprises a drive and shut-off device

• (i) one transverse to the partitions 14 extending and extending over the entire width of the juxtaposed cubicles 12 extending cross member, and
• (ii) buoyancy stimulators attached to the crossbeam and movable into the cubicles,

wherein the cross member and / or the buoyancy stimulators from the head ends 16 the cubicles 12 to those on the walkway 30 adjacent ends 18 the cubicles are movable.

• – ein mit Schwachstrom beaufschlagbarer Kontakt oder Draht,
• – ein optischer oder akustischer Signalgeber,
• – ein Schild,
• – ein ausfahrbarer Teleskoparm oder
• – eine Kombination aus mindestens zwei der genannten Stimulatoren geeignet.

As a buoyancy stimulator is for example

• A contact or wire which can be subjected to weak current,
• An optical or acoustic signal generator,
• - a shield,
• - An extendable telescopic arm or
• - A combination of at least two of said stimulators suitable.

• – mindestens einen Liegebereich 10, der nebeneinander angeordnete Liegeboxen 12 für mindestens eine Gruppe von Kühen umfasst,
• – einen Fressbereich 20 mit Fressplätzen 22 für die mindestens eine Gruppe von Kühen,
• – einen ersten Laufgang 30 der zwischen dem Liege- und Fressbereich der ersten Gruppe angeordnet ist,
• – gegebenenfalls eine erste Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung 70 zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem Liegebereich (10) in den ersten Laufgang 30 und zum Absperren des Liegebereichs und
• – gegebenenfalls eine zweite Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem Fressbereich 20 in den ersten Laufgang 30 und zum Absperren des Fressbereichs 20.

The stable according to the invention comprises a cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 6. According to a preferred embodiment it may comprise:

• - at least one lying area 10 , the juxtaposed cubicles 12 for at least one group of cows,
• - a feeding area 20 with eating places 22 for the at least one group of cows,
• - a first walkway 30 which is arranged between the lying and feeding area of the first group,
• - If necessary, a first drive and shut-off device 70 to drive cows out of their sleeping area ( 10 ) in the first walkway 30 and to shut off the lying area and
• - If necessary, a second driving and shut-off device for driving cows out of their feeding area 20 in the first walkway 30 and to shut off the feeding area 20 ,

• – einen zweiten Laufgang 40, in den der erste Laufgang 30 mündet,
• – eine Viehtreibereinrichtung 80 zum Treiben der auf den ersten Laufgang 30 zusammengetriebenen ersten Gruppe von Kühen von einem ersten Ende 31 des ersten Laufgangs zu einem zweiten Ende 32 des ersten Laufgangs 30 und in den zweiten Laufgang hinein;
• – gegebenenfalls einen Vorwartehof 50;
• – einen Melkraum 60,
• – gegebenenfalls eine Schleuse zur Erkennung einzelner Kühe und gegebenenfalls zur Absonderung einer Kuh aus einer Gruppe.

Furthermore, a particularly preferred embodiment of the stable comprises:

• - a second walkway 40 in the first walkway 30 opens
• - A cattle driving device 80 to the bustle of the first walkway 30 rounded first group of cows from a first end 31 the first walkway to a second end 32 the first walkway 30 and into the second passageway;
• - if necessary, a forecourt 50 ;
• - a milking room 60 .
• - where appropriate, a sluice to detect individual cows and possibly to separate a cow from a group.

• – die erste Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung 70 zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem Liegebereich 10 in den ersten Laufgang 30 und zum Absperren des Liegebereichs 10 und/oder
• – eine zweite Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung (nicht gezeigt) zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem Fressbereich 20 in den ersten Laufgang 30 und zum Absperren des Fressbereichs 20. Die zweite Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem Fressbereich 20 in den ersten Laufgang 30 und zum Absperren des Fressbereichs 20 kann wie die oben beschriebene, insbesondere die in 2 und 3 gezeigte, Treib- und Absperrvorrichtung 70 ausgebildet sein.

A very particularly preferred embodiment of the stable according to the invention comprises:

• - The first drive and shut-off device 70 to drive cows out of their sleeping area 10 in the first walkway 30 and to shut off the lying area 10 and or
• - A second drive and shut-off device (not shown) for driving cows out of their feeding area 20 in the first walkway 30 and to shut off the feeding area 20 , The second driving and locking device for driving cows out of their feeding area 20 in the first walkway 30 and to shut off the feeding area 20 like the one described above, especially those in 2 and 3 shown, drive and shut-off device 70 be educated.

• – eine oder mehrere weitere erste Treib- und Absperrvorrichtungen) zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem/ihren Liegebereichen) 110, 210, 310, 410 in den/die weiteren Laufgang/Laufgänge 130, 230, 330, 430 und zum Absperren des/der Liegebereichs/Liegebereiche 110, 210, 310, 410 und/oder
• – eine oder mehrere weitere zweite Treib- und Absperrvorrichtungen) zum Heraustreiben von Kühen aus ihrem/ihren Fressbereichen) 120, 220, 320, 420 in den/die weiteren Laufgang/Laufgänge 130, 230, 330, 430 und zum Absperren des Fressbereichs/der Fressbereiche 120, 220, 320, 420 umfassen.

In the case of several groups of cows, which can be assigned to further lying and feeding areas, the barn according to the invention can be used in a corresponding manner

• - one or more other first driving and shut-off devices) for driving cows out of their lying area (s)) 110 . 210 . 310 . 410 into the other walkway (s) 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 and to shut off the lying area (s) 110 . 210 . 310 . 410 and or
• - one or more additional second driving and shut-off devices) for driving cows out of their feeding areas) 120 . 220 . 320 . 420 into the other walkway (s) 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 and to shut off the feeding area (s) 120 . 220 . 320 . 420 include.

Furthermore, a further preferred embodiment of the device for driving cows out of their lying area into the first 30 or another walkway 130 . 230 . 230 . 330 . 430 and in the second walkway 40 a drover device 80 which is set up to drive on the first walkway 30 rounded first group of cows from a first end 31 the first walkway 30 to a second end 32 the first walkway 30 and in the second walkway 40 into and optionally one or more additional drover equipment (s) 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 to drift on the next walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 caged further group (s) of cows from the respective first end 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 the further walkways 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 to the respective second end 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the further walkways 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 and in the second walkway 40 into it.

When the drover devices 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 according to the 1 Being moved from right to left, they drive the cows of a group of animals, each on the walkways 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 are driven from the respective first ends 31 . 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 on the right in 1 the respective gangways to the respective second ends 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the respective walkways on the left in 1 and then into the second walkway 40 into it, if the possibly existing shut-offs or gates are opened there. The drover facilities 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 According to the invention can with a cable or push rod system from the respective one end 31 . 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 the respective passage to the respective other end 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 be moved back and forth. According to a further embodiment of the invention, the drogue devices have their own drive or are designed as a monorail system. The embodiments that can be performed as a manure slide are particularly preferred because in this way the one or more walkways can be cleaned. Because of the better transmission of forces to the contaminants during the cleaning, the ground-based drogue devices are preferred over the monorail systems.

The drover device 80 is located in 1 For example, just on the way from right to left and drives all the cows of the first group, which are driven on the first walkway, to the second end 32 the first walkway 30 who is there in the second walkway 40 empties. Unless the second end 32 the first runway is not closed, all the cows of the first group are in the second walkway 40 driven. Preferably, a drogue device 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 only then from the respective one end 31 . 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 the respective passage to the respective other end 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 be moved when the end 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 at the second walkway 40 is arranged is not locked or locked, so that injuries to the animals are avoided by the cattle driving device. Particularly preferred may be only one of the cattle driving devices 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 at a given time from the respective right end to the respective left end of the gangways according to 1 to be moved.

In the second walkway 40 may preferably be in the region of the left end 32 the first walkway 30 A barrier may be provided so that the first group of cows are directly in the pre-waiting yard 50 is driven. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the barrier may be the second end 32 the first walkway opposite the second walkway shuts off when the first group of cows associated with the first lying and feeding area is in that lying and feeding area, also used around the second walkway 40 shut off so that the first group of cows are essentially directly in the forecourt 50 is driven. However, the group of cows can only complete the second walkway 40 be driven and from there with another cattle driving device 46 that of the in 1 End shown above 42 of the second walkway 40 about that in 1 End shown below 44 of the second walkway 40 in the Vorwartehof 50 who is at the end 44 is arranged, driven become. The other second ends of the other walkways 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the respective further walkways on the left in 1 are preferably closed, so that the animals of one group can not penetrate into the lying and feeding area of another group.

The forecourt 50 is provided in a preferred embodiment of the invention. However, the barn according to the invention can also be designed so that the cows, when driven for milking, are driven directly from the second walkway into a milking room. The forecourt and / or the milking room preferably comprise the cattle driving devices known in the prior art and milking room in the state of the art. Thus, a fully automatic method for milking and a fully automatic stall can be provided. The milking room in the barn according to the invention preferably also comprises a milking parlor, carousel milking parlor or milking robot known in the art. As a milking parlor, a herringbone parlor, side-by-side milking parlor or tandem parlor is preferred. As a carousel milking parlor a tandem carousel, herringbone carousel or radial carousel can be used. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the means for milking the cows may recognize each individual cow being milked. Further, each means for milking comprises an analyzer with which the milked milk of each individual cow is analyzed, preferably by measuring the conductivity of the milk. Thus, the health status of each individual cow can advantageously be monitored and diseases of the cows can be detected early, so that some diseases can be treated early and a spread thereof to the group of cows or even all housed in the stable animals can be avoided. It can also be recognized whether an animal is pregnant. In addition, such an advantageous Quailtätsanalyse the milk delivered. After milking the cows in the milking room 60 , the cows can go over the exit 62 in a lock 64 be driven to recognize each cow. If necessary, through the lock 64 a cow is to be separated from a group if analysis of the milked milk requires a segregation of the cow, for example because of the state of health of the cow. Especially advantageous are the cows according to the arrows 51 . 53 . 61 and 63 through the forecourt, the milking room, the lock and back to the second gangway.

The drover facilities 46 . 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 and 480 in 1 are each designed according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention as a manure slide, each of which is one end 31 . 42 . 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 the walkways 30 . 40 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 to the other end 32 . 44 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the gangways can be moved back and forth. This has the advantage of using the drover devices 46 . 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 and 480 also the walkways 30 . 40 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 can be purified, in particular from the excrement of the cows. To remove impurities, these are in the at the first ends 31 . 42 . 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 provided manure drafts 82 . 182 . 282 . 382 . 482 (at walkway 40 at the end 42 not shown), when the drogue devices designed as a manure slider 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 according to the 1 be moved from left to right or the cattle driving device 46 according to the 1 from the end 44 to the end 42 is moved.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, a drogue device comprises a structure 84 on how he is in 4 you can see. The structure 84 For example, it may be a simple pipe string, and most preferably fully or partially loaded with light flow to the cows from the first gangway 30 or from one of the other walkways 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 in the second walkway 40 to drive. The cattle driving device can during the entire movement of the cattle driving device from right to left according to 1 or only at intervals during this movement are energized. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the drogue device 80 and / or the other cattle driving devices 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 the cleaning device according to the present invention.

In 5 is a preferred cleaning device 86 shown according to the invention. It includes a brush 87 with bristles 89 preferably one to the walkway 30 substantially parallel axis 88 can be rotated. In 5 is the axis 88 opposite the walkway 30 shown slightly inclined for illustration. The cleaning device 87 may further comprise cover surfaces (not shown) forming a housing around the brush, the housing having an opening facing the passageway 30 directed. Thus, by the rotating brush impurities that are on the bed 13 the cubicle 12 and include, for example, litter and excrements of the cows, targeted from the cubicle to the first walkway 30 be brushed. The on the walkway 30 Brushed impurities can then be used with the cattle driving device, which is preferably designed as a manure slide 80 with the slider arms 93 from the left end 32 the first walkway 30 to the right end 31 the first walkway 30 and there in the manure throw 82 be pushed into it. The drogue device designed as a manure slider 80 is particularly preferably designed so that the slide arms 93 not only solid impurities but also liquids completely from the walkway 30 in the manure throw 82 can slide in, so the walkway 30 is essentially completely cleaned. The cleaning device used according to the invention has the advantage that a continuous cleaning of all adjacent cubicles can be done. This leads to an efficient and time-saving process. In addition, the cleaning can be carried out so that the cows are not disturbed in their resting phases, in particular the ruminating, since they are not in the lying and feeding area during cleaning. This improves the efficiency of the cows, thus increasing milk production. In addition, the cubicles can be cleaned more thoroughly so that the house hygiene is improved.

at a further embodiment According to the invention, the cleaning device comprises a rotatable Brush, wherein the axis of rotation of the brush against the Vertical to the lying area the cubicle is inclined, and the juxtaposed cubicles continuously through the movable past the cubicles cleaning device can be cleaned. In further advantageous embodiments invention, the brushes the cleaning device in a direction from the top of the Cubicles towards the end of the cubicles, the walkway between the couch and Eating area is arranged, moves.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the drogue device 80 respectively. 180 . 280 . 380 and or 480 a spreader for entering fresh bedding in the cubicles, as in 5 as a spreader 94 is shown. This spreader 94 can in addition to the construction 84 be provided as in 5 but can also be shown instead of building 84 Be part of a cattle driving and optionally have electricity acted upon elements with which cows can be additionally driven. The spreader 94 may even have a supply of litter, which is moved with the drogue device as in 5 is shown or only an application device, such as a pipe over which can be applied by a not with the cattle driving device with movable supply bedding on the lying surfaces of the cubicles, for example with a fan. In the 5 shown spreader 94 points the reservoir 96 with an opening 98 on. The opening 98 is preferably provided with a closure (not shown) which can be opened so that the litter may fall onto the cubicles. In a preferred embodiment, the reservoir 96 a screw or a belt for transporting the litter to the opening 98 exhibit. The appropriate amount of litter on the lying surface 13 a cubicle 12 can be introduced, on the speed with which the spreader 94 is moved past juxtaposed cubicles, the size of the opening 98 or by the closure of the opening 98 controllable size of the opening 98 and the height in which the opening 98 is provided above the lying surface to be adjusted. In another embodiment, bedding is applied to the bed 13 blown.

The in 1 The stable according to the invention shown and described above is adapted to carry out therein the method according to the invention for cleaning cubicles for cows arranged side by side and adjacent to a gangway, wherein a cleaning device according to one of claims 1 to 6 is moved past the cubicles arranged side by side.

Namely, the cleaning device of the invention is arranged for cleaning side by side and on a walkway 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 adjacent cubicles 12 . 112 . 212 . 312 . 412 set up for cows, wherein the cleaning device is movable past the juxtaposed cubicles and at least one of the lying surfaces 13 the cubicle cleaning brush 87 includes.

In the cleaning device according to the invention, the brush 87 preferably rotatable and its axis of rotation 88 Can be compared to the vertical to the bed 13 be tilted so that juxtaposed cubicles can be continuously cleaned by the movable past the cubicles cleaning device.

In another embodiment, the brush is 87 rotatable and its axis of rotation 88 is essentially parallel to the walkway 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 , to which the cubicles adjoin, arranged.

Particularly preferred is the brush 87 in each cubicle in the direction of the head end 16 a cubicle 12 to the end 18 that the walkway 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 facing, movable.

Particularly advantageous is the cleaning device of the invention on a cattle driving device 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 and / or 480 attached by a first end 31 . 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 the respective gangway to a second end 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the walkway where the walkway 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 in a second walkway 40 flows, can be moved forward and back again.

All Particularly advantageous is a cleaning device which is connected to a Manure slider is attached, the back in a walkway and moved back is.

With the cleaning device according to the invention can be particularly advantageous cleaning the cubicles in the third the individual cubicles are carried out, the walkway is facing.

According to one another embodiment the invention concludes the procedure for cleaning cubicles that after cleaning the cubicles fresh bedding, preferably straw chaff or sawdust comprises, is applied to the individual cubicles, preferably on the third of the individual cubicles, which faces the gangway is.

• (a) ein Zusammentreiben mindestens einer ersten Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in einem der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 10, 20 eines Stalls aufhalten, wobei der Liegebereich 10 die Liegeboxen 12 umfasst, über einen ersten Laufgang 30, der zwischen dem Liege- und Fressbereich angeordnet ist, auf einen zweiten Laufgang 40, durch eine Viehtreibereinrichtung 80, die von einem ersten Ende 31 des ersten Laufgangs zu einem zweiten Ende 32 des ersten Laufgangs bewegt wird, an dem der erste Laufgang in den zweiten Laufgang 40 mündet,
• (b) ein Hineintreiben der Gruppe von Kühen von dem zweiten Laufgang, gegebenenfalls über einen Vorwartehof 50, in einen Melkraum 60, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden;
• (c) das Reinigen der Liegeboxen des der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liegebereichs gemäß einem der oben beschriebenen Verfahren, und
• (d) ein Zurücktreiben der gemolkenen Kühe in den der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 10, 20.

Very particularly preferred is a method for cleaning cubicles which also includes milking cows according to the following steps:

• (a) aggregating at least a first group of cows living in a recumbent and feeding area associated with the first group 10 . 20 of a stable, the lying area 10 the cubicles 12 includes, over a first walkway 30 , which is arranged between the lying and feeding area, on a second walkway 40 by a drover device 80 coming from a first end 31 the first walkway to a second end 32 the first walkway is moved, where the first walkway in the second walkway 40 opens
• (b) driving the group of cows in from the second gangway, optionally via a pre-waiting yard 50 , in a milking room 60 in which the cows are milked;
• (C) cleaning the cubicles of the lying area associated with the first group according to one of the methods described above, and
• (d) driving the milked cows back into the lying and feeding area associated with the first group 10 . 20 ,

• (a') ein Zusammentreiben einer weiteren Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in einem der weiteren Gruppe zugeordneten weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich 110, 120; 210, 220; 310, 320; 410, 420 des Stalls aufhalten, über einen weiteren Laufgang 130, 230, 330, 430, der zwischen dem weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich angeordnet ist, auf den zweiten Laufgang 40, durch eine weitere Viehtreibereinrichtung 180, 280, 380, 480, die von einem ersten Ende 131, 231, 331, 431 des weiteren Laufgangs zu einem zweiten Ende 132, 232, 332, 432 des weiteren Laufgangs bewegt wird, an dem der weitere Laufgang in den zweiten Laufgang 40 mündet,
• (b') ein Hineintreiben der weiteren Gruppe von Kühen von dem zweiten Laufgang, gegebenenfalls über einen Vorwartehof 50, in einen Melkraum 60, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden;
• (c') ein Reinigen der Liegeboxen des der weiteren Gruppe zugeordneten Liegebereichs 110, 210, 310, 410 gemäß einem der Verfahren wie es oben beschrieben ist, und
• (d') ein Zurücktreiben der gemolkenen Kühe in den der weiteren Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich,

vorzugsweise mit der Maßgabe, dass die Schritte (a') bis (d') für die weitere Gruppe von Kühen nach den Schritten (a) bis (d) durchgeführt werden.Another embodiment comprises the following steps:

• (a ') a collection of another group of cows, which are in one of the further group associated further lying and feeding area 110 . 120 ; 210 . 220 ; 310 . 320 ; 410 . 420 of the stable, over another walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 , which is arranged between the other lying and feeding area, on the second walkway 40 by another drover device 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 coming from a first end 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 further walk to a second end 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the further gangway is moved, at which the further gangway in the second gangway 40 opens
• (b ') driving in the further group of cows from the second gangway, optionally via a pre-waiting yard 50 , in a milking room 60 in which the cows are milked;
• (C ') cleaning the cubicles of the further group associated lying area 110 . 210 . 310 . 410 according to one of the methods as described above, and
• (d ') driving the milked cows back into the lying and feeding area assigned to the further group,

preferably with the proviso that the steps (a ') to (d') are carried out for the further group of cows after the steps (a) to (d).

• – Eine erste Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in dem der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 10 und 20 des Stalls aufhält, kann auf den ersten Laufgang 30, der zwischen dem Liege- und Fressbereich 10 und 20 angeordnet ist, zusammengetrieben werden, wobei der Liegebereich 10 nebeneinander liegende Liegeboxen 12 umfasst.
• – Ferner kann die auf den ersten Laufgang 30 zusammengetriebene erste Gruppe von Kühen in den zweiten Laufgang 40, der sich an dem Ende 32 des ersten Laufgangs 30 befindet, getrieben werden.
• – Weiterhin kann die Gruppe von Kühen von dem zweiten Laufgang 40 über den Vorwartehof 50 in den Melkraum 60, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden, getrieben werden.
• – Außerdem können die gemolkenen Kühe in den der ersten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 10 und 20 zurückgetrieben werden.

In particular, in the stable according to 1 the following procedure is carried out.

• - A first group of cows, which are in the lying and eating area assigned to the first group 10 and 20 of the stable may be on the first walkway 30 between the lying and eating area 10 and 20 is arranged to be driven together, the lying area 10 adjacent cubicles 12 includes.
• - Further, on the first walkway 30 rounded up first group of cows in the second walkway 40 who is at the end 32 the first walkway 30 is to be driven.
• - Furthermore, the group of cows from the second walkway 40 over the Vorwartehof 50 in the milking room 60 in which the cows are milked, to be driven.
• - In addition, the milked cows in the first group associated with lying and feeding area 10 and 20 be driven back.

By This procedure ensures that all cows, grouped in a group and a lying and feeding area are assigned to be forcibly milked. That way additional monitoring activities and a culling and milking of individual animals that are reluctant or not at all from a freely accessible one set up in a stable Milk milking robot, avoided. Thus, on the one hand the Work and time required for the operator reduces and on the other hand the milk production be increased. Because with the inventive method can at a preferred embodiment be achieved that all cows assigned to a group, at least be milked three times a day.

• – ein Zusammentreiben einer zweiten Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in einem der zweiten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 110 und 120 des Stalls aufhalten, auf einen weiteren Laufgang 130, der zwischen dem weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich 110 und 120 angeordnet ist, wobei der weitere Liegebereich 110 nebeneinander liegende Liegeboxen 112 umfasst;
• – ein Treiben der in Schritt (a') auf den weiteren Laufgang 130 zusammengetriebenen zweiten Gruppe von Kühen in den zweiten Laufgang 40, der sich an dem Ende 132 des weiteren Laufgangs 130 befindet;
• – ein Hineintreiben der zweiten Gruppe von Kühen von dem zweiten Laufgang 40, über den Vorwartehof 50, in den Melkraum 60, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden; und
• – ein Zurücktreiben der gemolkenen Kühe in den der zweiten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 110 und 120.

In a preferred embodiment of Invention, the method further comprises:

• - A collection of a second group of cows, in a lying and eating area associated with the second group 110 and 120 of the stable, on another walkway 130 between the other lying and eating area 110 and 120 is arranged, with the further lying area 110 adjacent cubicles 112 includes;
• - A drive in step (a ') on the next gangway 130 rounded second group of cows in the second gangway 40 who is at the end 132 further walkway 130 is;
• - driving the second group of cows in from the second gangway 40 , about the Vorwartehof 50 , in the milking room 60 in which the cows are milked; and
• A driving back of the milked cows in the lying and eating area associated with the second group 110 and 120 ,

Particularly preferably, the steps (a ') to (d') are carried out for the second group of cows only after the corresponding steps for the first group have been completely carried out, ie that the first group returns to its lying position after milking. and feeding area 110 and 120 located before the second group of cows in step (a ') on the walkway 130 is driven. In another embodiment, the second group may be on the walkway, for example 130 or in the forecourt 50 be driven before the first group after milking back into their assigned lying and feeding area 10 . 20 is driven.

• – Eine dritte Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in dem der dritten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 210 und 220 des Stalls aufhalten, kann auf den weiteren Laufgang 230, der zwischen dem weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich 210 und 220 angeordnet ist, getrieben werden, wobei der weitere Liegebereich 210 nebeneinander liegende Liegeboxen 212 umfasst.
• – Die auf den weiteren Laufgang 230 zusammengetriebene dritte Gruppe von Kühen kann in den zweiten Laufgang 40, der sich an dem Ende 232 des weiteren Laufgangs 230 befindet, getrieben werden.
• – Die dritte Gruppe von Kühen kann von dem zweiten Laufgang 40, über den Vorwartehof 50, in den Melkraum 60, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden, getrieben werden.
• – Und die gemolkenen Kühe der dritten Gruppe können in den der dritten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 210 und 220 zurückgetrieben werden.

In another embodiment, for example, the following steps may be performed:

• - A third group of cows, located in the lying and feeding area assigned to the third group 210 and 220 the stall can stop on the further walkway 230 between the other lying and eating area 210 and 220 is arranged to be driven, the other lying area 210 adjacent cubicles 212 includes.
• - The on the further walkway 230 Driven third group of cows can enter the second walkway 40 who is at the end 232 further walkway 230 is to be driven.
• - The third group of cows can from the second walkway 40 , about the Vorwartehof 50 , in the milking room 60 in which the cows are milked, to be driven.
• - And the milked cows of the third group can be placed in the lying and feeding area assigned to the third group 210 and 220 be driven back.

• – Eine vierte Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in dem der vierten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 310 und 320 des Stalls aufhalten, kann auf den weiteren Laufgang 330, der zwischen dem weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich 310 und 320 angeordnet ist, getrieben werden, wobei der weitere Liegebereich 310 nebeneinander liegende Liegeboxen 312 umfasst.
• – Die auf den weiteren Laufgang 330 zusammengetriebene vierte Gruppe von Kühen kann in den zweiten Laufgang 40, der sich an dem Ende 332 des weiteren Laufgangs 330 befindet, getrieben werden.
• – Die vierte Gruppe von Kühen kann von dem zweiten Laufgang 40, über den Vorwartehof 50, in den Melkraum 60, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden, getrieben werden.
• – Und die gemolkenen Kühe der vierten Gruppe können in den der vierten Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 310 und 320 zurückgetrieben werden.
• – Eine fünfte Gruppe von Kühen, die sich in dem der fünften Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 410 und 420 des Stalls aufhalten, kann auf den weiteren Laufgang 430, der zwischen dem weiteren Liege- und Fressbereich 410 und 420 angeordnet ist, getrieben werden, wobei der weitere Liegebereich 410 nebeneinander liegende Liegeboxen 412 umfasst.
• – Die auf den weiteren Laufgang 430 zusammengetriebene vierte Gruppe von Kühen kann in den zweiten Laufgang 40, der sich an dem Ende 432 des weiteren Laufgangs 430 befindet, getrieben werden.
• – Die fünfte Gruppe von Kühen kann von dem zweiten Laufgang 40, über den Vorwartehof 50, in den Melkraum 60, in dem die Kühe gemolken werden, getrieben werden.
• – Und die gemolkenen Kühe der fünften Gruppe können in den der fünften Gruppe zugeordneten Liege- und Fressbereich 410 und 420 zurückgetrieben werden.

These steps are preferably performed after the corresponding steps have been performed for the second group of cows. Furthermore, these steps can also be carried out for a fourth and / or fifth or even further group of cows. For example, the following steps can be performed:

• - A fourth group of cows that are in the lying and feeding area assigned to the fourth group 310 and 320 the stall can stop on the further walkway 330 between the other lying and eating area 310 and 320 is arranged to be driven, the other lying area 310 adjacent cubicles 312 includes.
• - The on the further walkway 330 Fourth group of cows driven together can go into the second walkway 40 who is at the end 332 further walkway 330 is to be driven.
• - The fourth group of cows can from the second walkway 40 , about the Vorwartehof 50 , in the milking room 60 in which the cows are milked, to be driven.
• - And the milked cows of the fourth group can be placed in the lying and eating area assigned to the fourth group 310 and 320 be driven back.
• - A fifth group of cows that are in the lying and feeding area assigned to the fifth group 410 and 420 the stall can stop on the further walkway 430 between the other lying and eating area 410 and 420 is arranged to be driven, the other lying area 410 adjacent cubicles 412 includes.
• - The on the further walkway 430 Fourth group of cows driven together can go into the second walkway 40 who is at the end 432 further walkway 430 is to be driven.
• - The fifth group of cows can from the second walkway 40 , about the Vorwartehof 50 , in the milking room 60 in which the cows are milked, to be driven.
• - And the milked cows of the fifth group can be placed in the lying and eating area assigned to the fifth group 410 and 420 be driven back.

In further advantageous embodiments of the present invention, the collation takes place in step (a) by actuation of a first drive and shut-off device 70 to drive cows out of their sleeping area 10 in the first walkway 30 and to shut off the lying area 10 , and if necessary, by operation of a second drive and shut-off device (not shown) an expulsion of cows from their feeding area 20 in the first walkway 30 and to shut off the feeding area 20 respectively.

Further, the collation in step (a ') may be accomplished by actuation of a further first drive and shut-off device to drive cows out of their lying area 110 . 210 . 310 . 410 in the corresponding further walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 and to shut off the lying area 110 . 210 . 310 . 410 take place, and if necessary, by operating another second drive and shut-off device (not shown) for driving cows out of their feeding area 120 . 220 . 320 . 420 in the corresponding further walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 Walkway and to shut off the feeding area 120 . 220 . 320 . 420 respectively.

Preferably, by actuation of the first or, if appropriate, of the further first drive and shut-off devices for driving cows out of their lying area, all cows of a group which are in the lying area assigned to their group are simultaneously moved from this lying area into the first or possibly further walkway driven, and the first or possibly the other (s) first (s) propellant and shut-off devices may or may be designed so that the lying area assigned to the respective group is shut off inaccessible to all cows of this group. This is for example for each cubicle that is in 2 Shaft and shut-off device shown 70 are provided, and all such driving and shut-off devices provided in a lying area assigned to a group of cows are then actuated simultaneously so that all cows of a group are driven onto the walkway located between the lying and feeding area associated with that group is. This method can be further improved by operating the second and optionally the other second driving and shut-off devices) to drive cows out of their feeding area into the first or further walkway between the lying and feeding area and to shut off their feeding area, so that all the cows of a group who are in the feeding area assigned to their group, are driven out of this feeding area into the first or optionally further gangway at the same time.

The drift of the first group of cows in the second walkway 40 can by pressing the drogue device 80 done by the end 31 the first walkway 30 to an end 32 the first walkway 30 at which the second walkway 40 is arranged, is moved.

Further, driving another group of cows in step (a ') into the second walkway 40 preferably by actuation of another drover device 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 coming from a first end 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 further walkway 130 . 230 . 330 or 430 to the end 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 further walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 on which the second walkway is arranged, is moved.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the drogue device 80 or the other drover device 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 designed as a manure slider, so that with the drogue device 80 or the other drover device 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 Manure or other contaminants, including liquids, in the respective gangway 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 can be vacated.

According to one preferred method of the invention is an audible signal, preferably a bell or horn signal, and / or optical before activity the first and / or second and possibly the other first and / or another second drive and shut-off device, the drogue device and, if appropriate, the further drover device and / or before driving a group of cows from the second walkway, optionally via the Vorwartehof, given in the milking room.

Preferably, prior to driving a group of cows into the second walkway, a barrier between the first walkway 30 and the second walkway 40 or between the further walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 and the second walkway 40 open.

In addition, after or while driving a group of cows, possibly over the Vorwartehof 50 , in the milking room 60 , the barrier between the first walkway 30 and the second walkway 40 or between the further walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 and the second walkway 40 getting closed. This easily prevents the entry of cows into the lying and feeding area of another group if the steps (a ') to (d') described above for the further group of cows do not take place only after the steps (a). to (d) for the first group, or if the steps (a ') to (d') for each additional group of cows are not performed until after the steps (a ') to (d') for the previous group ,

In the milking room 60 For example, the cows may be milked recognizing each individual cow so that milked milk of each individual cow can be analyzed, preferably by measuring the conductivity of the milk. Thus, gege by a Vorbeitreiben the milk cows on a lock under detection of the individual cows if necessary, a cow will be separated from her group if the milking milk of that cow is conspicuous. After the segregation, the cow can be examined in detail and treated if necessary. The separated cows may advantageously before and during an examination and optionally a treatment in the separated lying and feeding areas 67 be housed. This has the advantage that the milk production of healthy animals is not disturbed in their associated lying and feeding areas.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cubicles of a group of cows are cleaned prior to driving the milked cows back into the lying and feeding area associated with the respective group. It is particularly preferred when cleaning the cubicles started with the cubicle, which at the end 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 the first or further walkway 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 arranged in the second walkway 40 empties. This is done advantageously using the drogue device 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 comprising the above-described cleaning device. Thus, the cubicles can be cleaned continuously and extremely time-saving. In addition, the cows are not disturbed in their resting phases during ruminating, as the cleaning takes place while the cows are on their way to or on milking or on the way back. Thus, in the stable according to the invention by the inventive method for cleaning the cubicles, a very high standard of hygiene can be achieved while increasing milk production. Preferably, the barrier between the gangway 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 to be cleaned, and the second walkway 40 closed before cleaning is started.

Particularly preferably, the cleaning of the cubicles is carried out in the third of the individual cubicles, the first or further walkway 30 or 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 is facing. This makes cleaning more efficient and faster.

After cleaning the cubicles, fresh bedding, which preferably comprises straw chaff or sawdust, is preferably applied to the cubicles, preferably to the third of the individual cubicles corresponding to the first cubicle 30 or another walkway 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 is facing.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the stable comprises a central control device with which, if appropriate, all the methods described above are automatically controlled. It is particularly preferred that the food from the feeding table is automatically removed before a group of animals is driven out of its lying area, preferably with a conveyor belt with which a preferred feeding table is equipped. If necessary, then a drive and shut-off device can be actuated to forcibly drive all animals of this group out of the feeding area. Thereafter, the self-catching or feeding fence is automatically locked in the feeding area, so that no animal has more access to the feeding table of the feeding area. Only then, also automatically controlled, the animals, which are in the cubicles driven out of these on the walkway between lying and feeding area. Then the barrier between this walkway and the second walkway, and optionally the door or barrier of the entrance to the Vorwartehof and / or milking room is opened automatically. Then the cattle driving device is actuated in the walkway between lying and feeding area to drive the animals from the walkway on the second walkway and optionally on the Vorwartehof in the milking room. When the last animal of this group has entered the forecourt, the entrance is preferably automatically closed and locked. After milking and, if appropriate, discarding one or more animals, the milked animals are driven back into the reclining and feeding area, preferably via an infusion room. The lying and feeding area is particularly preferably cleaned before. Particularly preferably, the cleaning is optionally started with a sprinkling of the cubicles, as described above, when the last animal of the group has left the lying and feeding area before milking. Thus, the first animals that return from the milking again occupy their ancestral resting and feeding places, while possibly still a part of the cubicles is cleaned. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the driving and shut-off devices for driving the cows out of their lying area are still actuated when the animals return there after milking while the self-catching and feeding gratings are reopened. Preferably, at this time fresh feed, also automatically, has been transported into the feeding area, preferably via a monorail system. Furthermore, in a particularly preferred method, the self-catching or feeding fence is locked at the individual feeding places when an animal eats there. Thus, the animals are forcibly brought to a meal for a predetermined period immediately after milking and preferably after the water intake, after a predetermined time that self-catching or feeding fence is opened again, so that the animals can then rest and ruminate again. Before the next milking of this group, which begins again with a removal of the feed, the animals can freely between lying and feeding area, which preferably also with tears ken, move. Particularly preferred after the last animal has returned to the lying and feeding area after milking, the barrier between the walkway between lying and feeding area and the second walkway closed. Particularly preferably, the same method is automatically operated for the next group also controlled by the central control device. More preferably, the corresponding method for the next group of animals is timed so that the animals are driven out of the walkway between their lying and feeding area into the second passageway just when the barrier between the previous group's walkway and the second walkway , also automatically, was shut off again.

Claims (24)

Cleaning device for cleaning juxtaposed and to a walkway ( 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 ) adjacent cubicles ( 12 . 112 . 212 . 312 . 412 ) for cows, wherein the cleaning device is movable past the juxtaposed cubicles and at least one of the lying surfaces ( 13 ) the cubicle cleaning brush ( 87 ). Cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that the brush is rotatable and its axis of rotation ( 88 ) in relation to the vertical to the lying surface ( 13 ) of the cubicle is inclined, and the juxtaposed cubicles can be continuously cleaned by the movable past the cubicles cleaning device. Cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that the brush ( 87 ) is rotatable and its axis of rotation ( 88 ) substantially parallel to the walkway ( 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 ), to which the cubicles adjoin. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the brush ( 87 ) in each cubicle in the direction from the top of the cubicle to the end of the cubicle 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 ), can be moved. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is attached to a cattle driving device ( 80 . 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 ) which is attached from a first end ( 31 . 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 ) of the walkway to a second end ( 32 . 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 ) of the walkway where the walkway ( 30 . 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 ) into a second walkway ( 40 ) opens, forward and is moved back again. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that it is attached to a manure slider is that in the walkway is moved back and forth. Process for cleaning juxtaposed and on a walkway adjacent cubicles for cows, wherein a cleaning device according to one the claims 1 to 6 moved past the juxtaposed cubicles over becomes. Method according to claim 7, characterized in that that cleaning the cubicles in the third of the individual cubicles carried out which faces the gangway. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that after cleaning the cubicles fresh bedding, the preferably straw chop or sawdust comprises, is applied to the individual cubicles, preferably on the third of the individual cubicles, which faces the gangway is. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a milking of the cows according to the following steps: (a) a grouping together of at least one first group of cows which lie in a lying and feeding area assigned to the first group ( 10 . 20 ) of a stable, the lying area ( 10 ) the cubicles ( 12 ), via a first walkway ( 30 ), which is arranged between the lying and eating area, on a second walkway ( 40 ) by a drover device ( 80 ) coming from a first end ( 31 ) of the first walkway to a second end ( 32 ) of the first gangway, at which the first gangway into the second gangway ( 40 ) (b) driving the group of cows away from the second gangway, optionally via a pre-waiting yard ( 50 ), in a milking room ( 60 ), where the cows are milked; (c) cleaning the cubicles of the lying area associated with the first group according to one of the above methods, and (d) driving the milked cows back into the sleeping and feeding area associated with the first group ( 10 . 20 ). Method according to claim 10, characterized by the following steps: (a ') a grouping together of a further group of cows, which in a further lying and eating area assigned to the further group ( 110 . 120 ; 210 . 220 ; 310 . 320 ; 410 . 420 ) of the stable, via another walkway ( 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 ), which is arranged between the other lying and feeding area, on the second walkway ( 40 ), by another drover device ( 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 ) coming from a first end ( 131 . 231 . 331 . 431 ) of the further gangway to a second end ( 132 . 232 . 332 . 432 ) of the further gangway is moved, at which the further gangway into the second gangway ( 40 ), (b ') a driving in of the further group of cows from the second gangway, optionally via a pre-waiting yard ( 50 ), in a milking room ( 60 ), where the cows are milked; (c ') a cleaning of the cubicles of the further group associated lying area ( 110 . 210 . 310 . 410 ) according to one of the methods as defined in any one of claims 7 to 9, and (d ') driving the milked cows back into the lying and feeding area associated with the further group, preferably with the proviso that steps (a') to (d ') for the further group of cows after steps (a) to (d). Method according to claim 11, characterized in that that steps (a ') to (d ') with several other groups of cows be performed, preferably of the kind that steps (a ') to (d') for every other group of cows after the steps (a ') to (d ') for the previous one Group performed become. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that by actuation of a first ( 70 ) or, if appropriate, a further first drive and shut-off device for driving cows out of their lying area, in each case all cows of a group that are in the lying area assigned to their group, are driven out of this lying area into the first or optionally further gangway, and the first or optionally, the further first driving and shut-off device is designed such that the lying area assigned to the respective group is shut off inaccessible to all cows of this group. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that by actuation a second and optionally a further second propellant and Shut-off device for driving cows out of their feeding area in the first or further walk between lying and feeding area and to shut off the respective feeding area, all cows one Group that are in the feeding area assigned to their group, from this feeding area simultaneously in the first or possibly be driven further walkway. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that for driving a group of cows into the second gangway, a drooling device ( 80 ) or another drover device ( 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 ) is designed as a manure slider and impurities can be cleared in the first or further walkway. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that prior to actuation of the first and / or second and optionally the further first and / or further second drive and shut-off device ( 70 ), the drover device ( 80 ) and optionally the other drover device ( 180 . 280 . 380 . 480 ) and / or before driving a group of cows from the second gangway ( 40 ), if necessary via the preliminary waiting area ( 50 ), in the milking room ( 60 ) an acoustic signal, preferably a bell or horn signal is given. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that before driving a group of cows into the second gangway a barrier between the first gangway ( 30 ) and the second walkway ( 40 ) or between the further walkway ( 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 ) and the second walkway ( 40 ) is opened. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after or during the driving of a group of cows into the pre-waiting yard ( 50 ), the barrier between the first walkway ( 30 ) and the second walkway ( 40 ) or between the further walkway ( 130 . 230 . 330 . 430 ) and the second walkway ( 40 ) is closed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized marked that the cows be milked under detection of each cow, and the milked Milk of each cow is analyzed, preferably by measurement the conductivity the milk. A method according to claim 19, characterized by a slinging of the group of milked cows on a sluice for detection the single cows and optionally to separate a cow from the group. Stable, comprising a cleaning device according to one of the claims 1 to 6. Stable according to claim 21, comprising: - at least one lying area ( 10 ), the juxtaposed cubicles ( 12 ) for at least one group of cows, - a feeding area ( 20 ) with feeding places ( 22 ) for the at least one group of cows, - a first walkway ( 30 ) arranged between the lying and feeding area of the first group is, if necessary, a first drive and shut-off device ( 70 ) for driving cows out of their lying area ( 10 ) in the first walkway ( 30 ) and to shut off the lying area, - if necessary, a second driving and shut-off device for driving cows out of their feeding area ( 20 ) in the first walkway ( 30 ) and to shut off the feeding area ( 20 ). Stable according to one of the preceding claims by a control device for controlling one of the methods according to one of the claims 7 to 20. Barn according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by - a second gangway ( 40 ), in which the first walkway ( 30 ), - a cattle driving device ( 80 ) to drive on the first walkway ( 30 ) first group of cows from a first end ( 31 ) of the first walkway to a second end ( 32 ) of the first walkway ( 30 ) and into the second passageway; - if necessary, a pre-accession court ( 50 ); - a milking room ( 60 ), - where appropriate, a lock for the detection of individual cows and possibly for the separation of a cow from a group.