JP5685784B2 - Milk life meter life management method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a component life management method for a milk meter suitable for use in managing the component life of a milk meter that is attached to a milking machine or the like and measures milk yield.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a milk meter disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known as a milk meter that measures the amount of milk connected to the middle of a milking line that sends milk milked by a milking machine.

  The milk meter disclosed in the literature 1 is connected to the middle of the feeding line, and a measuring container part capable of storing milk flowing in from an inlet, and a liquid level of milk stored in the measuring container part A liquid level detection unit that detects the liquid level, a valve mechanism unit that is driven by a valve drive unit that can open and close the outlet of the measuring container unit, and at least if the liquid level detection unit detects a liquid level, the valve mechanism unit is controlled to open and close In particular, the measuring container part is formed in a cylindrical shape, provided with an inflow port in the upper part, provided with an intermediate port in the longitudinal intermediate part, and provided with an outlet in the lower part, so that A valve mechanism having a gas-liquid separation chamber on the upper side and a metering chamber between the intermediate port and the outlet, and a first valve capable of opening and closing the intermediate port and a second valve capable of opening and closing the outlet; A first detection unit capable of detecting the liquid level of milk in the gas-liquid separation chamber, and the electricity of milk in the measurement chamber Shirubedo (resistance value) is constructed by providing a second detector capable of detecting.

JP 2011-103813 A

  However, the conventional milk meter disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above has the following problems to be solved.

  First, this type of milk meter utilizes the measuring principle of repeatedly flowing out after storing a certain amount of inflowing milk in the measuring chamber. The outlet is closed and the outlet is closed, and the intermediate port is opened and the milk is stored in the measuring chamber for approximately 3 to 8 seconds. When the liquid level reaches the specified height, the valve mechanism is raised to flow. By opening the outlet and closing the intermediate port, the milk is usually discharged after securing a time of about 1 second, and then the operation of lowering the valve mechanism is repeated again. Ascending and descending is performed by a valve drive unit using vacuum pressure. For this reason, the rubber parts used in the valve drive part and the valve mechanism part are likely to be deteriorated, and are usually exchanged regularly around 6 to 12 months. In this case, since the replacement is performed in consideration of a certain margin regardless of the actual deterioration, there are not a few cases where a rubber part that can still be used is replaced with a new one. Therefore, such a part replacement (part life management) method is not desirable from the viewpoint of material saving, and causes a wasteful cost for the user, and is also difficult in terms of economy.

  Secondly, in the case of this type of milk meter, a rubber part that needs to be replaced, which is a consumable part, is a pair of upper and lower valve rubbers used in the valve mechanism part, and a pair that converts the vacuum pressure into the vertical displacement of the valve mechanism part. Many rubber parts (members) such as rubber diaphragm parts and vacuum tubes (rubber tube members) that supply vacuum pressure are used, but the degree of deterioration of each part is visually confirmed. Is not easy. Therefore, it is often not noticed until a definite abnormality such as breakage occurs. As a result, when the deterioration is progressing at an early stage, the deteriorated rubber parts are continuously used without being noticed, which causes the measurement operation to become unstable and the measurement accuracy to decrease.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a part life management method for a milk meter that solves the problems existing in the background art.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the method for managing the lifetime of a part of a milk meter according to the present invention is connected to the middle of the milk feeding line Lm, and the measuring container unit 2 capable of storing the milk M flowing in from the inlet 2i; A liquid level detection unit 3 that detects the liquid level Mu of the milk M stored in the measuring container unit 2 and a valve mechanism unit that is driven by a valve drive unit 5 that can open and close the outlet 2e of the measuring container unit 2. 4 and a control system 6 for controlling the opening and closing of the valve mechanism unit 4 when at least the liquid level detection unit 3 detects a liquid level Mu of a predetermined height, A non-detection discrimination resistance value Re for discriminating a resistance value at the time of non-detection of the milk M detected by the milk detection unit D capable of detecting the resistance value of the milk M stored in the container unit 2 and discharging the stored milk M Detected by the milk detector D after switching the valve mechanism 4 to the discharge side A limit determination time Te for determining that the elapsed time when the resistance value (detection resistance value Rd) does not reach the non-detection determination resistance value Re is abnormal is set, and the valve mechanism 4 is switched to the discharge side during milking. Thereafter, when the detected resistance value Rd does not reach the non-detected determination resistance value Re even after the limit determination time Te has elapsed, a predetermined alarm process is performed.

  On the other hand, according to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the measuring container part 2 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and an inlet 2i is provided in the upper part, an intermediate port 2m is provided in the longitudinal intermediate part, and an outlet 2e is provided in the lower part. The upper side of the intermediate port 2m is configured as a gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, and the space between the intermediate port 2m and the outlet 2e is configured as a measuring chamber Km, and the liquid level detection unit 3 includes at least milk in the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks. The liquid level Mu of M can be arranged to be detectable. On the other hand, the milk meter 1 can be provided with a resistance detector 7 capable of detecting the resistance value of the milk M in the measuring chamber Km. Therefore, the liquid level detector 3 and / or the resistance detector 7 can be used as the milk detector D. The valve mechanism 4 can be configured by a combination of a first valve 4u that can open and close the intermediate port 2m and a second valve 4d that can open and close the outlet 2e. Furthermore, the alarm process can include at least one or both of a display process for displaying the component monitoring alarm 8 and a milking operation stop process for stopping the milking operation. The components in the milk meter 1 include at least one or two of a first valve 4 u and a second valve 4 d in the valve mechanism unit 4, a diaphragm 5 d in the valve drive unit 5, and a vacuum tube 9 connected to the valve drive unit 5. The above can be included. Further, if necessary, it is possible to monitor the time until the detection resistance value Rd detected by the milk detection unit D exceeds the non-detection determination resistance value Re after switching the valve mechanism unit 4 to the discharge side.

  According to the part life management method for a milk meter according to the present invention based on such a technique, the following remarkable effects can be obtained.

  (1) At the time of milking, if the detection resistance value Rd does not reach the non-detection determination resistance value Re even after the limit determination time Te has elapsed after switching the valve mechanism 4 to the discharge side, a predetermined alarm process is performed. As a result, when a component, particularly a rubber component, deteriorates (life is exhausted), it can be quickly replaced with a new one. As a result, the rubber parts (4u (4ug), 4d (4dg), 5d (5do, 5di), 9...) Used in the valve drive unit 5 and the valve mechanism unit 4 can be used up to their original lifetime. Thus, effective material savings can be achieved, and economics on the user side can be improved. In addition, since it is possible to eliminate the need for periodic replacement of parts for 6 to 12 months, it is possible to contribute to a reduction in maintenance.

  (2) Even if various rubber parts used for the milk meter 1 that need to be replaced deteriorate early due to usage conditions, etc., the user can easily and reliably prevent the early deterioration through predetermined alarm processing. Can be confirmed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the problem of continuing to use the rubber part whose early deterioration is in progress without notice. As a result, stable and accurate weighing of the milk M can always be ensured without causing instability of the weighing operation and lowering of the weighing accuracy.

  (3) According to a preferred embodiment, the measuring container part 2 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the inlet 2i is provided in the upper part, the intermediate outlet 2m is provided in the longitudinal intermediate part, and the outlet 2e is provided in the lower part. The gas-liquid separation chamber Ks above 2 m is configured as the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, and the space between the intermediate port 2 m and the outlet 2 e is configured as the measurement chamber Km. If the liquid level Mu is arranged so that it can be detected, the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks and the measurement chamber Km can be operated in an optimum manner, and the measurement efficiency can be improved by shortening the measurement time and more accurate measurement can be realized. it can.

  (4) According to a preferred embodiment, when the resistance detection unit 7 capable of detecting the resistance value of the milk M in the measuring chamber Km is provided, when the milk M is stored in the measuring container unit 2, the resistance is detected first. Since the part 7 is soaked in the milk M and then the liquid level detection part 3 is immersed after a lapse of time, the resistance detection part 7 is affected by bubbles Mb and waves at a deeper position than the liquid level detection part 3. The point that it is possible to detect the resistance value with no time margin, and the accurate resistance value (electrical conductivity) with respect to the milk M, and the accurate information regarding the characteristics of the milk M and the quality of the abnormal milk etc. can be obtained. From the best. In addition, the threshold value for detecting the liquid level Mu in the liquid level detection unit 3 is corrected for each cow body by the accurate resistance value detected by the resistance detection unit 7, and the liquid level Mu is detected by the liquid level detection unit 3. The liquid level Mu of the milk M, that is, the amount of milk can be accurately detected, and the milk obtained from the time difference between the detection of the resistance detection unit 7 and the detection of the liquid level detection unit 3 can be optimized. The multi-functionality and developability of the milk meter 1 can be enhanced such that it can be used for predicting the milking end time based on the flow velocity.

  (5) If the liquid level detection unit 3 and / or the resistance detection unit 7 are used as the milk detection unit D according to a preferred embodiment, two milk detection units D having different heights, that is, the liquid level detection unit 3 and the resistance The detection unit 7 can be selected and used, or both can be used together. Therefore, when detecting the discharge state of the milk M, for example, it is possible to use it in accordance with whether priority is given to quickness, reliability is given priority, or reliability is given priority. Performance) and convenience (usability) can be improved, and the detection mode corresponding to the situation can be optimized.

  (6) According to a preferred embodiment, when the valve mechanism portion 4 is configured by a combination of the first valve 4u capable of opening and closing the intermediate port 2m and the second valve 4d capable of opening and closing the outlet 2e, when one of them is closed Moreover, since the other can be opened, the accuracy of a single storage amount of the milk M can be improved.

  (7) According to a preferred embodiment, if the alarm process includes at least one or both of a display process for displaying the part monitoring alarm 8 and a milking operation stop process for stopping the milking operation, the user may deteriorate the part. It is possible to easily and surely know that it has come, and to avoid secondary malfunctions due to component deterioration.

  (8) According to a preferred embodiment, the components in the milk meter 1 include the first valve 4u (4ug) and the second valve 4d (4dg) of the valve mechanism unit 4, the diaphragm 5d (5do, 5di) of the valve drive unit 5, If at least one or more of the vacuum tubes 9 connected to the valve drive unit 5 are included, most of various rubber parts that need to be replaced can be managed by the single milk detection unit D. The maximum performance can be obtained from the viewpoint of cost effectiveness, such as being able to be implemented at a cost.

  (9) If the time until the detection resistance value Rd detected by the milk detection unit D exceeds the non-detection discrimination resistance value Re is monitored after switching the valve mechanism unit 4 to the discharge side according to a preferred embodiment, the final Since it is possible to perform preliminary monitoring for a part whose deterioration is in progress before the typical alarm process is executed, it is possible to further validate the part life management method.

The flowchart for demonstrating the process sequence of the component lifetime management method which concerns on suitable embodiment of this invention, Side cross-sectional view of a milk meter used in the same part life management method, Block diagram of the control system including the rear view of the milk meter used for the same part life management method, Side sectional view of a milk meter according to a modified example used in the same part life management method, A perspective view of a liquid level detection unit and a resistance detection unit provided in the milk meter according to the modified example, Usage explanation of milk meter used in the same part life management method, Schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the milk meter used in the part life management method, Change characteristic diagram at normal time with respect to time of the resistance value detected by the milk detection unit of the milk meter used for the same part life management method Change characteristic diagram at the time of abnormality with respect to time of the resistance value detected by the milk detection unit of the milk meter used for the same part life management method,

  Next, preferred embodiments according to the present invention will be given and described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  First, the configuration of the milk meter 1 that can be managed by the component life management method according to the present embodiment will be specifically described with reference to FIGS.

  The milk meter 1 includes a milk meter main body 1m. In the milk meter main body 1m, reference numeral 2 denotes a measuring container portion, which is formed into a cylindrical shape entirely from a material such as transparent or translucent plastic or glass, and is vertically Two constricted portions 2su and 2sd are provided. The upper constricted portion 2su forms an intermediate port 2m, and the lower constricted portion 2sd forms an outlet 2e. Thus, the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks is formed above the intermediate port 2m, the measuring chamber Km is formed between the intermediate port 2m and the outlet 2e, and the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd is formed below the outlet 2e. If comprised in this way, it will become possible to carry out by the optimum mode in which the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks and the measurement chamber Km are linked, and there is an advantage that the measurement efficiency can be improved by shortening the measurement time and further accurate measurement can be realized. . Note that the inner diameter of the outlet 2e is selected to be slightly larger than the inner diameter of the intermediate port 2m. Thereby, since the milk M stored in the measuring chamber Km can be quickly discharged from the outlet 2e, it can contribute to a smooth milk amount measurement. Moreover, it is desirable that the measuring container unit 2 is configured by a structure in which a plurality of (four examples) divided bodies are combined. Thereby, even if it is a case where the constriction parts 2su and 2sd are provided, manufacture of the measurement container part 2 and maintenance (cleaning, replacement, etc.) can be facilitated.

  On the other hand, in the vicinity of the upper end of the circumferential surface of the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, an inflow port 2i that protrudes tangentially from the outer surface and can be connected to the upstream milk tube 66 is provided. As a result, the milk M that has flowed into the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks from the inlet 2i flows spirally along the inner wall surface of the peripheral surface portion of the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, so that the milk M flows into the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks. When flowing down the inner wall surface, the flow velocity is reduced, and the generation of bubbles Mb and the undulation of the liquid level Mu, which cause errors in measuring the milk amount, are greatly reduced. As a result, the milk meter 1 is made compact and compact. Can also contribute.

  Further, the weighing chamber Km is formed in a shape in which the upper and lower sides are surrounded by a tapered surface. Thereby, even when the milk container M is stored in the measuring chamber Km, even if the measuring container part 2 (milk meter main body 1m) is inclined, a layer of air A is not generated, and the measuring chamber Km Even when the measuring container 2 (milk meter main body 1m) is inclined when the milk M is discharged, the milk M does not remain. Therefore, even in the actual use environment (installation environment), even when the milk meter 1 is inclined, measurement errors caused by the inclination can be eliminated, and the milk yield can be measured with high accuracy. In addition, the range (use) of the use environment (installation environment) has been dramatically expanded, such as by being able to be attached to a teat cup automatic detachment device that often shakes greatly during milking by being hung on the stay via a hook. It is possible to improve versatility and convenience.

  Further, a valve mechanism unit 4 is disposed inside the measuring container unit 2 (the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks and the measuring chamber Km). The valve mechanism 4 is inserted into the outlet 2e and the intermediate port 2m, and the gas-liquid separation is performed by having the upper end facing the upper end of the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks and the lower end facing the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd. A pipe shaft 11 for communicating the chamber Ks and the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd, a valve drive unit 5 for supporting the upper end of the pipe shaft 11 and moving the pipe shaft 11 up and down, and a pipe shaft located in the measuring chamber Km 11 includes a first valve 4u provided on the upper outer peripheral surface and a second valve 4d provided on the lower outer peripheral surface. In this case, a spinning wheel-like fixing member 12 is mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the pipe shaft 11, and a donut disk-like valve rubber 4 ug is attached to the upper end surface of the fixing member 12 to constitute the first valve 4 u. The same valve rubber 4dg is attached to the lower end surface of the second valve 4d to constitute the second valve 4d. The first valve 4u and the second valve 4d are included in components managed by the component life management method according to the present embodiment. Accordingly, since the deteriorated valve rubber 4ug, 4dg needs to be replaced with a new one, the back surface of the valve rubber 4ug (same on the 4dg side) is integrally provided with, for example, one or more protrusions formed in a columnar shape, This protrusion can be configured to be press-fit (detachable) into one or more recesses formed on the upper end surface of the fixing member 12.

  Thereby, the first valve 4u can open and close the intermediate port 2m between the measuring chamber Km and the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, and the second valve 4d can open and close the outlet 2e between the measuring chamber Km and the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd. It becomes. If such a valve mechanism portion 4 is provided, the pipe shaft 11 can be used both as a valve driving shaft and an air vent pipe, and also as a valve driving shaft for both the first valve 4u and the second valve 4d. Therefore, it is possible to contribute to simplification of configuration, cost reduction, and size reduction. Moreover, when one of the intermediate port 2m or the outlet 2e is closed, the other can be opened, so that the accuracy of a single storage amount of the milk M can be improved.

  Further, the valve drive unit 5 supports the upper end of the pipe shaft 11 via the support member 14 and closes the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, that is, a circular opening 2uh provided in the upper surface 2u of the measuring container unit 2. A diaphragm portion 5d that forms an upper surface portion Ksu of the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, and an upper cover member 15 that covers the diaphragm portion 5d on the opposite side to the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks. A switching chamber portion Kc is formed between the diaphragm portions 5d. The switching chamber Kc is switched to a vacuum pressure or an atmospheric pressure under the control of a control system 6 (FIG. 3) described later. Reference numeral 16 denotes a connection port of the switching chamber portion Kc protruding from the upper cover member 15. The diaphragm portion 5d is composed of a rubber first diaphragm 5do and a rubber second diaphragm 5di which are separated from each other in the vertical direction, and realizes a stable up-and-down displacement, and the support member 14 is an upper end opening of the pipe shaft 11. Is formed so as not to be closed, and is coupled to the central lower surface of the second diaphragm 5di. The diaphragm portion 5d (the first diaphragm 5do and the second diaphragm 5di) is included in the components managed by the component life management method according to the present embodiment. Therefore, since the deteriorated first diaphragm 5do and second diaphragm 5di need to be replaced with new ones, they are configured to be detachable by being attached via the upper cover member 15 and the support member 14. If such a valve drive part 5 is provided, since the vacuum pressure (vacuum line) used for the milking machine 64 (FIG. 6) can be used as a drive source, it contributes to the cost reduction and size reduction by simplification of a structure. it can.

  On the other hand, the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd is formed in a shape in which the upper and lower sides are surrounded by a tapered surface. Thereby, when the milk M is sent out from the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd, the milk M does not remain even if the measuring container part 2 (milk meter main body 1m) is inclined. Furthermore, a discharge port 2t that protrudes downward and can be connected to the downstream milk tube 67 is provided at the center of the bottom surface of the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd. Further, since the lower surface portion 2d of the weighing container portion 2 becomes the bottom surface portion Kdd of the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd, the milk delivery port portion 22 is formed by raising a cylindrical buffer cylinder 21 from the center on the bottom surface portion Kdd. Is provided. The buffer cylinder 21 has an upper end facing the inside and a lower end communicating with the discharge port 2t. And the slit formed in the surrounding surface part of the buffer cylinder 21 becomes the 1st delivery port 22f which the milk M flows out with the flow volume below the 1st flow volume Qf, and mixes with the air A inside the measurement container part 2, and the buffer cylinder 21 Is the second delivery port 22s through which milk M flows out at a flow rate equal to or higher than Qr when the amount of stored milk exceeds a predetermined amount. On the other hand, the lower end port of the pipe shaft 11 facing the inside of the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd is positioned directly above the upper end port of the buffer cylinder 21.

  On the other hand, a liquid level detection unit 3 constituting a milk detection unit D facing the inside of the supply cylinder unit 23 is attached to the measuring container unit 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the liquid level detection unit 3 includes a pair of upper and lower electrodes 3p and 3q formed by a pin member, and the upper electrode 3p is arranged near the lower end of the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, and the lower side The electrode 3q is arranged near the upper end of the measuring chamber Km. Thereby, the liquid level detection part 3 can detect the liquid level Mu of the milk M by the electrical resistance (resistance value) of the milk M between the electrodes 3p and 3q. In addition, a resistance detection unit 7 constituting the second milk detection unit D is attached to the measuring container unit 2 at a position below the liquid level detection unit 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the resistance detection unit 7 includes a pair of left and right electrodes 7 p and 7 q that are arranged at an intermediate position in the vertical direction (near the center) of the measuring chamber Km and formed by pin members. Thereby, the resistance detection part 7 can detect at least resistance value (electrical conductivity) of the milk M stored in the inside of the measurement container part 2 (measurement chamber Km). The resistance detection unit 7 can detect the electrical resistance at the lower position by using the pair of electrodes 7p and 7q. However, the lower electrode 3q in the liquid level detection unit 3 and one electrode of the resistance detection unit 7 described above. If 7p (or 7q) is used, the electrical resistance at the middle position can be detected. Therefore, the electrode 3q and the electrode 7p (or 7q) constitute an auxiliary resistance detection unit 7s, and the resistance detection unit 7 includes this auxiliary resistance detection unit 7s. That is, the resistance detection unit 7 includes both a first mode using a pair of electrodes 7p and 7q and a second mode using the auxiliary resistance detection unit 7s (electrode 3q and electrode 7p (or 7q)). .

  As described above, if the resistance detection unit 7 that is located below the liquid level detection unit 3 and can detect the resistance value of the milk M in the measurement chamber Km is provided, the milk M is stored in the measurement container unit 2. In this case, the resistance detection unit 7 is first immersed in the milk M, and then the liquid level detection unit 3 is immersed after a lapse of time, so that the resistance detection unit 7 is at a position deeper than the liquid level detection unit 3. The resistance value that is not affected by bubbles Mb and waves can be detected with sufficient time, and the accurate resistance value (electric conductivity) for milk M, the characteristics of milk M, the quality of abnormal milk, etc. It is optimal from the viewpoint of obtaining accurate information related to. In addition, the threshold value for detecting the liquid level Mu in the liquid level detection unit 3 is corrected for each cow body by the accurate resistance value detected by the resistance detection unit 7, and the liquid level Mu is detected by the liquid level detection unit 3. The liquid level Mu of the milk M, that is, the amount of milk can be accurately detected, and the milk obtained from the time difference between the detection of the resistance detection unit 7 and the detection of the liquid level detection unit 3 can be optimized. The multi-functionality and developability of the milk meter 1 can be enhanced such that it can be used for predicting the milking end time based on the flow velocity.

  Further, the weighing chamber Km is provided with a undulation suppressing portion 24 protruding downward from the inner edge portion of the intermediate port 2m. The undulation suppressing unit 24 has a function of suppressing undulation generated in the measuring chamber Km by the milk M flowing in from the intermediate port 2m. For this reason, it forms in the curved shape along the wall surface of the measurement chamber Km, and it provides so that the liquid level detection part 3 may be covered. Therefore, the arrangement position, size, shape, and the like of the undulation suppressing unit 24 are selected so that at least the liquid level detection unit 3 cannot be seen from the intermediate port 2m. If such a wave suppression part 24 is provided, when the first valve 4u and the second valve 4d are displaced downward, a relatively large wave generated in the measuring chamber Km due to the milk M falling from the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks. Striking can be suppressed and the adverse effect of erroneous detection by the liquid level detection unit 3 and the resistance detection unit 7 can be avoided.

  On the other hand, FIG. 3 shows the control system 6 connected to the milk meter main body 1m. The control system 6 includes a system controller 31 having a computing function for performing various control processes and arithmetic processes. Therefore, the program memory 31p built in the system controller 31 stores a control program for executing a series of sequence control related to milk yield measurement and a processing program for executing the component life management method according to the present invention. That is, at least a non-detection determination resistance value Re for determining a resistance value at the time of non-detection of the milk M detected by the milk detection unit D capable of detecting the resistance value of the milk M stored in the measuring container unit 2; After the valve mechanism 4 is switched to the discharge side for discharging the stored milk M, the elapsed time during which the resistance value (detection resistance value Rd) detected by the milk detection unit D does not reach the non-detection determination resistance value Re is abnormal. A process for setting a limit determination time Te for determining the presence of the limit is performed, and at the time of milking, after the valve mechanism 4 is switched to the discharge side, the limit determination time Te has elapsed. When the detected resistance value Rd has not reached the non-detection determination resistance Re stores a processing program for executing a predetermined alarm operation. In this case, the predetermined alarm process includes at least one or both of a display process for displaying the component monitoring alarm 8 and a milking operation stop process for stopping the milking operation.

  Furthermore, various setting data including a switching setting time Ts, a limit determination time Te, a non-detection determination resistance value Re, and the like, which will be described later, are set in the data memory 31d. In addition, the liquid level detection processing unit 32 and the output unit of the resistance detection processing unit 33 are connected to the input port of the system controller 31, and the switching valve 34 using an electromagnetic three-way valve described later is used as the control output port of the system controller 31. Connect. On the other hand, the electrodes 3p and 3q of the liquid level detection unit 3 are connected to the input unit of the liquid level detection processing unit 32 by a predetermined connection cable 35. The liquid level detection processing unit 32 applies a predetermined voltage between the electrodes 3p and 3q, and detects the electrical resistance between the electrodes 3p and 3q. Similarly, the electrodes 7p and 7q of the resistance detection unit 7 are connected to the input unit of the resistance detection processing unit 33 by a predetermined connection cable 36. The resistance detection processing unit 33 applies a predetermined voltage to the electrodes 7p and 7q, and detects an electrical resistance (resistance value) between the electrodes 7p and 7q. The electrode 3q is also connected to the resistance detection processing unit 33 side. As a result, the electrical resistance (resistance value) in the auxiliary resistance detection unit 7 s described above can be detected by the resistance detection processing unit 33. On the other hand, reference numeral 37 denotes a display unit capable of displaying various data. The display unit 37 has a function of displaying that fact, for example, displaying a component monitoring alarm 8 using an alarm lamp or the like, at the time of executing the alarm processing, in accordance with the component life management method according to the present invention.

  Thus, when the control system 6 detects the liquid level Mu by at least the electrodes 3p and 3q of the liquid level detection unit 3 described above, the first valve 4u of the valve mechanism unit 4 is closed and the second valve 4d is opened. In addition to switching control to the position, it has a function of switching control of the first valve 4u to the open position and the second valve 4d to the closed position in accordance with a predetermined return condition. The connection port 16 protruding from the switching chamber portion Kc is connected to the common port 34c of the switching valve 34 via the vacuum tube 9 using a rubber tube member, and one branch port 34a of the switching valve 34 is The vacuum tube 38 is connected to a vacuum source 39 such as a vacuum pump, and the other branch port 34b of the switching valve 34 is opened to the atmosphere. Therefore, if the switching valve 34 is subjected to switching control, the switching chamber portion Kc described above can be switched to a vacuum state or an atmospheric state. In this case, the vacuum tube 9 (38) is included in the components managed by the component life management method according to this embodiment, and the deteriorated vacuum tube 9 (38) can be replaced with a new one.

  Further, after the first valve 4u is switched to the closed position and the second valve 4d is switched to the open position, the predetermined return condition for controlling the first valve 4u to the open position and the second valve 4d to the closed position is as follows: It can be used that the preset switching set time Ts elapses or that the end of the discharge of the milk M from the outlet 2e is detected. In the present embodiment, the elapse of a preset switching setting time Ts is set as a return condition. As described above, if a method for switching the first valve 4u to the open position and the second valve 4d to the closed position when a preset switching setting time Ts elapses as the predetermined return condition, By reducing the number of points, the control can be facilitated and the cost can be reduced. On the other hand, as a predetermined return condition, by detecting the end of the discharge of the milk M from the outlet 2e, the first valve 4u can be switched to the open position and the second valve 4d can be switched to the closed position. For example, a detection electrode unit similar to the liquid level detection unit 3 including the electrodes 3p described above may be attached to the outlet 2e. As a predetermined return condition, if a method of switching the first valve 4u to the open position and the second valve 4d to the closed position by detecting the end of the discharge of the milk M from the outlet 2e, the return is quickly performed. Therefore, the weighing time is shortened and efficient weighing can be performed.

  By the way, in this embodiment, since the resistance detection part 7 is provided, this resistance detection part 7 can be utilized for the detection of the completion | finish of discharge | emission of the milk M from the outflow port 2e. In this case, since the resistance detection unit 7 is not attached to the outlet 2e, the end of discharge cannot be directly detected, but since it is positioned at least below the liquid level detection unit 3, the liquid level detection unit 3 The switching setting time Ts can be set shorter than using the detection of. Therefore, the margin time included in the switching setting time Ts can be shortened, and a more appropriate switching setting time Ts can be set.

  FIG. 4 (FIG. 5) shows a milk meter 1 according to the modified example. The milk meter 1 according to the modified example is different from the milk meter 1 shown in FIG. First, the milk meter 1 shown in FIG. 2 is configured such that the liquid level detecting unit 3 protrudes inward from the peripheral surface part 2w of the measuring container unit 2 so that the liquid level Mu of the milk M in the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks. Can be detected, and the resistance value K of milk M in the measuring chamber Km can be detected by projecting the resistance detector 7 inward from the peripheral surface 2w of the measuring container 2 4, the milk meter 1 according to the modified example shown in FIG. 4 is configured so as to project upward from the lower surface portion Kmd of the measuring chamber Km when the liquid level detection unit 3 is configured. The liquid level Mu of the milk M in the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks is constituted by the electrodes 3p and 3q that can be detected, and when the resistance detection unit 7 is constituted, by projecting upward from the lower surface portion Kmd of the measuring chamber Km. The resistance value of milk M in the measuring chamber Km Capable of detecting electrode 7p, was constructed by 7q.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 4, the liquid level detection unit 3 and the resistance detection unit 7 constitute a part of the measuring container unit 2 and can be attached to the pedestal unit 81 that can be attached to the measuring container unit 2. The detection unit 82 is configured by being provided integrally. That is, as shown in FIG. 5, one electrode 7p of the resistance detection unit 7, one electrode 3q of the liquid level detection unit 3, and the liquid level detection unit with respect to the pedestal unit 81 that is a part of the weighing container unit 2. The other electrode 3p of 3 and the other electrode 7q of the resistance detector 7 and the milk temperature sensor 83 for detecting the temperature of the milk M are arranged in order, and are integrally provided by insert molding or the like. At this time, the heights of the upper ends of the electrodes 7p, 3q, 3p and 7q are made to substantially coincide with the heights of the electrodes 7p, 3q, 3p and 7q of FIG. 3p and 3q cover other parts with covering parts 3pc and 3qc with an insulating material such as plastic with only the upper end exposed. Therefore, the covering portions 3pc and 3qc can be formed integrally with the pedestal portion 81. And when attaching the detection unit 82 with respect to the measurement container part 2, the fitting hole part which the base part 81 fits in the lower surface part Kmd of the measurement chamber Km in the measurement container part 2 is formed, and this fitting hole is formed. The pedestal 81 of the detection unit 82 is fitted into the part from above and fixed (locked) by the fixing mechanism 84.

  On the other hand, the milk meter 1 according to the modified example divides the measuring container portion 2 into an upper surface portion 2u, a first divided portion 2x, a second divided portion 2y, and a third divided portion 2z, and the upper surface portion 2u and the first divided portion. The part 2x, the second divided part 2y, and the third divided part 2z are configured to be attachable / detachable by attaching / detaching parts Jm. Further, the milk meter 1 according to the modified example has changed the form of the lower surface part 2d in the measuring container part 2. That is, the sampling means 91 is provided on one side of the lower surface portion 2d. For this reason, the discharge port 2t is arranged not on the center of the lower surface portion 2d but on the other side, and the shape of the lower surface portion 2d is inclined so that the milk M flows to the discharge port 2t. On the other hand, the sampling means 91 has a sorting cylinder 92 that penetrates the lower surface portion 2d and protrudes inside and outside the lower surface portion 2d. A sorting port portion 93 is attached to the upper end of the sorting tube 92. Thereby, a part of the milk M that has flowed down the lower surface portion Kmd of the measuring chamber Km can be sampled from the sorting port portion 93, and the sampled milk M is led out through the sorting cylinder 92. In the drawing, reference numeral 94 denotes a vent for allowing the milk M to smoothly enter the sorting port portion 93, and 95 denotes a sampling milk tube connected to the lower end of the sorting tube 92. Further, in the milk meter 1 shown in FIG. 2, an example in which a separate fixing member 12 is attached to the pipe shaft 11 is shown, but the fixing member 12 according to the modified example is an example in which the fixing member 12 is integrally formed with the pipe shaft 11. ing. As described above, the modification example shown in FIG. 4 (FIG. 5) mainly describes differences from the milk meter 1 shown in FIG. 2. It can be configured to be basically the same as the milk meter 1 shown in FIG. Therefore, in FIG. 4 (FIG. 5), the same parts as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals to clarify the configuration, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the component life management method according to the present embodiment including the method of using the milk meter 1 and the operation (function) will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, when using the milk meter 1, for example, the milk meter main body 1m can be attached to the back surface of the teat cup automatic detaching device 51 shown in FIG. In this case, the teat cup automatic detachment device 51 incorporates the controller 31, the liquid level detection processing unit 32, the resistance detection processing unit 33, and the switching valve 34 in the control system 6 described above. The automatic teat cup detachment device 51 has a hook 53 protruding upward from the upper surface of the device main body 51m and a wire guide pipe 54 protruding from the lower surface of the device main body 51m. 55 is paid out. The tip of the detachment wire 55 is connected to a milk claw 61 having four teat cups 61c. Therefore, a winding mechanism for winding the release wire 55 is provided inside the apparatus main body 51m.

  W denotes an example of a milking system that uses the milk meter 1. The milking system W includes a transporter 63 that moves along the rail 62, and a milking machine 64 is mounted on the transporter 63. Then, the teat cup automatic detachment device 51 is suspended by hooking the hook 53 on the arm stay 65 provided in the transport device 63. FIG. 6 shows a state where milking is performed on the cow C by the milking machine 64, and four teat cups 61 c are attached to the cow C. In the milking system W, at the time of milking, the raw milk (milk M) milked by the teat cups 61c is supplied from the milk claw 61 through the milk tube 66 to the inlet 2i of the milk meter main body 1m. Further, the milk M that has passed through the milk meter main body 1m is sent to the milk pipe 68 through the milk tube 67 from the discharge port 2t. Accordingly, the milk tubes 66 and 67 serve as a milk feeding line Lm for connecting the milk meter 1. 70 is a vacuum pipe, 38 is a vacuum tube (FIG. 3) for connecting the vacuum pipe 70 side and the teat cup automatic detaching device 51 side, 72 is a vacuum for connecting the teat cup automatic detaching device 51 side and the teat cup 61c. Each tube is shown. As described above, the electrodes 3p and 3q are connected to the teat cup automatic detachment device 51 (liquid level detection processing unit 32) via the connection cable 35 (FIG. 3), and the electrodes 7p and 7q are connected to the connection cable 36 ( 3) is connected to the teat cup automatic detaching device 51 (resistance detection processing unit 33), and the switching chamber Kc (connection port 16) is automatically disconnected from the teat cup via the vacuum tube 9 (FIG. 3). Connected to the device 51 (the branch port 34c of the switching valve 34).

  Hereinafter, the component life management method according to the present embodiment including the operation of the milk meter 1 at the time of milking will be described according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 1 with reference to FIGS.

  First, the resistance at the time of non-detection of the milk M detected by the liquid level detection unit 3 (milk detection unit D) that can detect the resistance value of the milk M stored in the measurement container unit 2 in advance is provided in the system controller 31. Non-detection discrimination resistance value Re for discriminating the value, and resistance value (detection resistance value Rd) detected by the liquid level detection unit 3 after switching the valve mechanism unit 4 to the discharge side for discharging the stored milk M A limit determination time Te for determining that the elapsed time when the value does not reach the non-detection determination resistance value Re is abnormal is set. In this case, the limit determination time Te may use the switching setting time Ts described above as it is, or a time different from the switching setting time Ts, in particular, the valve mechanism 4 (first valve 4u due to an abnormality during measurement). Even when the second valve 4d) is not raised, the time may be set in consideration of the time during which the milk M does not fill the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks. Further, the non-detection discrimination resistance value Re may use a non-detection threshold Ri at the time of milking for determining non-detection of the milk M, or is different from the non-detection threshold Ri in consideration of a margin or the like. A value may be set. In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which a time slightly shorter than the switching setting time Ts is set as the limit determination time Te and the non-detection threshold Ri is used as the non-detection determination resistance value Re.

  First, a normal operation in which no parts are deteriorated will be described. FIG. 8 shows a change characteristic of the detection resistance value Rd obtained from the liquid level detection unit 3 in the normal state. In this case, at the time of milking (measurement), the milk M milked to the milk tube 66 in the milk feeding line Lm is intermittently fed, so that the milk M flows into the measuring container part 2 from the inlet 2i. (Step S1). At the beginning of inflow, the vacuum tube 9 communicates with the branch port 34b by the switching valve 34 and is opened to the atmosphere. Accordingly, the first valve 4u and the second valve 4d of the valve mechanism unit 4 are in the lowered position, the intermediate port 2m is opened, and the outlet port 2e is closed. The milk M that flows in flows spirally along the inner wall surface of the peripheral surface portion in the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. As a result, good gas-liquid separation (centrifugation) is performed, and when the milk M flows down the inner wall surface of the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks, the flow velocity becomes small, and the generation of bubbles Mb that causes an error in measuring milk yield. And the undulation of the liquid surface Mu is greatly reduced. At this time, the separated air A flows into the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd through the inside of the pipe shaft 11 as indicated by a dotted arrow. The milk M from which the air A has been separated falls from the intermediate port 2m into the measuring chamber Km and is stored in the measuring chamber Km. FIG. 7A shows this state.

  As the inflow of the milk M proceeds, the liquid level Mu of the stored milk M rises. As shown in FIG. 7B, if the liquid level Mu rises beyond the electrodes 7p and 7q of the resistance detection unit 7, the resistance value between the electrodes 7p and 7q decreases, so that the resistance detection processing unit 33 Is detected to exceed the liquid level Mu. In this case, when the milk M is not stored, the resistance value is equal to or larger than the non-detection threshold Ri that is a resistance value when the milk M is not detected, but the liquid level Mu is equal to that of the resistance detection unit 7. If the voltage rises beyond the electrodes 7p and 7q, the resistance value decreases and becomes equal to or less than the detection threshold value Rm when the milk M is detected.

  Thereafter, the liquid level Mu rises due to the progress of storage in the measuring chamber Km, and as shown in FIG. 7C, if the liquid level Mu rises beyond the electrode 3p (3q), it is between the electrodes 3p and 3q. Since the electrical resistance decreases, the liquid level detection processing unit 32 detects that the liquid level Mu has reached a specified height (step S2). As a result, the system controller 31 outputs the valve switching signal Sc to the switching valve 34 and connects the vacuum tube 9 to the vacuum source 39 by switching the switching valve 34. As a result, a vacuum pressure (negative pressure) is applied to the switching chamber portion Kc, and as shown in FIG. 7C, the diaphragm portion 5d is displaced upward, and the valve mechanism portion 4 (the first valve 4u and the second valve). 4d) is also displaced to the raised position (step S3). Further, since the timer function is operating, simultaneously with the output of the valve switching signal Sc, the time measurement by the timer function is reset and the time measurement is newly started (step S4).

  When the valve mechanism 4 is displaced to the ascending position, the milk M in the measuring chamber Km flows out from the outflow port 2e and flows into the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd. At this time, the milk M that has flowed out from the outlet 2e is temporarily stored in the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd and is sent out from the first outlet 22f. That is, as shown in FIG. 7C, the milk M in the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd flows out into the buffer cylinder 21 through the slit serving as the first delivery port 22f, and is mixed with the air A from the upper end port. By doing so, it is sent to the milk tube 67 on the downstream side through the lower end port (discharge port 2t) of the buffer cylinder 21. In this case, the milk M is delivered little by little at a relaxed small flow rate. Therefore, a temporary blockage of the feeding channel (milk tube 67 and the like) due to the milk M generated when the outlet 2e is opened is avoided. On the other hand, when the milk M in the measuring chamber Km flows into the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd, the milk M that has flowed into the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd due to the milk M remaining in the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd. When the liquid level Mu temporarily exceeds the height of the upper end opening of the buffer cylinder 21, the milk M flows out from the second delivery port 22 s into the buffer cylinder 21.

  Further, the system controller 31 monitors the detection resistance value Rd obtained from the liquid level detection unit 3 (step S5). When normal, the milk M stored in the measuring chamber Km is normally discharged into the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd within approximately 1 [second]. As a result, there is no milk M in the measuring chamber Km, and the detection resistance value Rd rapidly increases as shown in FIG. In addition, tp has shown the time of outputting the valve switching signal Sc. As a result, the detection resistance value Rd quickly reaches the non-detection threshold Ri, that is, the non-detection determination resistance value Re (step S6). td indicates the time point when the non-detection discrimination resistance value Re is reached, and the normal time Tp from the time point tp to the time point td is within 1 [second]. Thereafter, when the time ts at which the switching set time Ts elapses is reached, the system controller 31 gives the valve return signal Sr to the switching valve 34. Thereby, the switching valve 34 is switched, and the switching chamber Kc is returned to the atmospheric pressure by releasing the vacuum pressure applied to the switching chamber Kc. As a result, the diaphragm portion 5d is displaced downward, and the valve mechanism portion 4 is also returned to the lowered position as shown in FIG. 7D (steps S7 and S8).

  When the valve mechanism 4 returns to the lowered position, the intermediate port 2m is opened and the outlet 2e is closed, so that the milk M in the gas-liquid separation chamber Ks passes through the intermediate port 2m into the measuring chamber Km. Flow into. Thereafter, the same operation (processing) is repeated until milking is completed, that is, until the milk M does not flow into the milk meter 1 (steps S9, S3...). When milking is completed, an end process is performed, and the system controller 31 obtains the total milk amount and further the flow rate (speed) and the like by calculation processing by counting the number of times measured by the measuring chamber Km. The above is the normal operation.

  Next, a case where an abnormal operation occurs due to deterioration of a rubber part or the like will be described. FIG. 9 shows the change characteristics of the detected resistance values Rd (Rx), Rd (Ry), and Rd (Rr) at the time of abnormality obtained from the liquid level detection unit 3 at the time of abnormality, and FIG. 9 illustrates three modes. In this case, at the time of milking (during measurement), milk M flows into the measuring container part 2 from the inlet 2i, and if the liquid level Mu is detected by the liquid level detector 3, a valve switching signal Sc is output, The operation until the valve mechanism 4 (the first valve 4u and the second valve 4d) is displaced to the ascending position, resets the time count by the timer function, and starts a new time simultaneously with the output of the valve switching signal Sc. (Processing) is performed in the same manner as the above-described normal operation, that is, the operations from steps S1 to S4.

  On the other hand, after outputting the valve switching signal Sc, the system controller 31 monitors the detection resistance value Rd (Rx) obtained from the liquid level detection unit 3 (step S5). When normal, the milk M stored in the measuring chamber Km falls into the gas-liquid mixing buffer chamber Kd within approximately 1 [second], but if any abnormality occurs in the valve mechanism unit 4 or the valve drive unit 5, Even if the switching signal Sc is output, the valve mechanism 4 (the first valve 4u and the second valve 4d) does not normally move to the raised position. The change in the detection resistance value Rd (Rx) shown in FIG. 9 is a case where the valve mechanism unit 4 is not displaced from the lowered position to the raised position at all. For example, the switching valve 34 using an electromagnetic three-way valve fails (burnout, orifice In the case where the operation becomes impossible due to clogging or the like, there may be a case where a large amount of vacuum leakage has occurred due to deterioration (perforation or the like) of the diaphragms 5do and 5di. In this case, since the milk M is not discharged even if the valve switching signal Sc is output, even if the detection resistance value Rd (Rx) reaches the detection threshold value Rm at the time point tp, it continues to decrease and then stabilizes. .

  Further, the change in the detection resistance value Rd (Ry) shown in FIG. 9 is a case where the valve mechanism unit 4 stops in the middle of the ascending position from the lowered position. For example, the entire change is caused by the deterioration of the diaphragm 5do or 5di. It is conceivable that the valve rubber 4ug, 4dg deteriorates (wears, breaks, etc.), or the like is hardened or locally broken. In this case, since the outflow speed of the milk M from the outflow port 2e is slow, the rise in the detection resistance value Ry is also delayed in time.

  As described above, when an abnormality occurs, a considerable delay occurs until the non-detection determination resistance value Re is reached or the non-detection determination resistance value Re is reached as in the detection resistance value Rd (Rx, Ry). Absent. For this reason, the detection resistance value Rd reaches the non-detection discrimination resistance value Re within approximately 1 [second] after reaching the time point tp at the normal time, but when an abnormality occurs, the valve switching signal Sc is output. Thereafter, even when the limit determination time Te elapses, the detected resistance value Rd (Rx, Ry) does not reach the non-detection determination resistance value Re. Therefore, a predetermined alarm process is performed at the time te (step S10). , S11). Note that alarm processing is not limited to such a mode. In particular, in order to avoid false detection, when a predetermined set time elapses after the time te, when the non-detection determination resistance value Re is not reached again, an alarm process is performed, or multiple times at regular time intervals. Detection can be performed, and an alarm process can be performed when the average value does not reach the non-detection determination resistance value Re. In the alarm process, a display process for displaying the component monitoring alarm 8 shown in FIG. 3 is performed, and a milking operation stop process for stopping the milking operation as necessary is performed. Therefore, the alarm process includes at least one or both of these processes. By performing such an alarm process, the user can easily and surely know that the component has deteriorated, and has the advantage of avoiding secondary malfunctions based on the deterioration of the component.

  If such a change in the detection resistance value Rd is used, the detection resistance value Rd obtained from the liquid level detection unit 3 after the valve mechanism unit 4 is switched to the discharge side will exceed the non-detection determination resistance value Re. By monitoring the time, it is also possible to perform preliminary monitoring of the parts that are undergoing degradation before the final alarm processing is performed. That is, the abnormality does not become so abnormal as to perform the alarm processing, but the time until the detection resistance value Rd reaches the non-detection determination resistance value Re is gradually delayed as the deterioration of the components progresses. Like the change indicated by the resistance value Rd (Rr), the detection resistance value Rd (Rr) reaches the non-detection determination resistance value Re (non-detection threshold Ri) with a time delay from the normal time. Therefore, if the time Tr until the detection resistance value Rd exceeds the non-detection determination resistance value Re is detected and monitored (managed) by, for example, displaying the graphic on the display unit 37, the deterioration is in progress. Preliminary monitoring of the parts can be performed, and there is an advantage that the part life management method can be further validated.

  On the other hand, if alarm processing is performed, the user can know that some kind of abnormality has occurred, so it is easy to identify the cause of the abnormality by performing necessary inspections, such as whether parts have deteriorated or whether there is a failure. It can be found (step S12). In this case, the components in the milk meter 1 that lead to the alarm processing due to deterioration include the first valve 4u (4ug) and the second valve 4d (4dg) of the valve mechanism section 4, and the diaphragm 5d (5do, 5) of the valve drive section 5. 5di), there is a vacuum tube 9 or the like connected to the valve drive unit 5. Therefore, according to the component life management method according to the present embodiment, most of various rubber components that need to be replaced can be managed by the single milk detection unit D (liquid level detection unit 3). There is an advantage that the maximum performance can be obtained from the viewpoint of cost-effectiveness, such as being able to implement at cost. Then, in particular, when the cause of the abnormality is caused by deterioration of the rubber part, the corresponding part may be replaced with a new part (step S13).

  As described above, according to the component life management method according to the present embodiment, the detection resistance value Rd is not detected even after the limit determination time Te has elapsed after the valve mechanism 4 is switched to the discharge side during milking. When the value Re has not been reached, a predetermined alarm process is performed, so that when a part, particularly a rubber part, is deteriorated (life is exhausted), it can be quickly replaced with a new one. As a result, the rubber parts (4u (4ug), 4d (4dg), 5d (5do, 5di), 9...) Used in the valve drive unit 5 and the valve mechanism unit 4 can be used up to their original lifetime. Thus, effective material savings can be achieved, and economics on the user side can be improved. In addition, since it is possible to eliminate the need for periodic replacement of parts for 6 to 12 months, it is possible to contribute to a reduction in maintenance. In addition, even when various rubber parts used for the milk meter 1 that need to be replaced deteriorate early due to usage conditions, etc., the user can easily and reliably prevent the early deterioration through predetermined alarm processing. Can be confirmed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the problem of continuing to use the rubber part whose early deterioration is in progress without notice. As a result, stable and accurate weighing of the milk M can always be ensured without causing instability of the weighing operation and lowering of the weighing accuracy.

  The preferred embodiment (including the modified example) has been described in detail above, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment, and the present invention is not limited to the detailed configuration, shape, material, quantity, technique, and the like. Changes, additions and deletions can be made arbitrarily without departing from the scope of the invention.

  For example, the milk level detection unit 3 is preferably used for the milk detection unit D, but is not limited to this mode, and the resistance detection unit 7 may be used instead of the liquid level detection unit 3. . Therefore, the liquid level detector 3 and / or the resistance detector 7 can be used as the milk detector D. That is, either one of the liquid level detection unit 3 and the resistance detection unit 7 may be selected and used, or if necessary, both the liquid level detection unit 3 and the resistance detection unit 7 may be used together. Setting may be performed individually, and it may be determined as abnormal when both satisfy the conditions. As a result, when detecting the discharge state of the milk M, for example, it is possible to use it in accordance with whether priority is given to quickness, reliability is given priority, or reliability is given priority. Diversity) and convenience (usability) can be improved, and the detection mode corresponding to the situation can be optimized. The resistance detection unit 7 is a concept including the auxiliary resistance detection unit 7s described above, and can be selected and used as necessary.

  In the valve mechanism unit 4, the pipe shaft 11 is used as both the valve driving shaft and the air vent pipe. However, the valve driving shaft is formed of a bar material, and the air vent pipe is separately connected to another pipe. You may provide in a position. Furthermore, the valve drive unit 5 is exemplified by the diaphragm portion 5d and the switching chamber portion Kc that can be switched to vacuum pressure or atmospheric pressure. However, the diaphragm portion 5d is directly displaced by an actuator such as an electromagnetic solenoid or an air cylinder. Is not to be excluded. On the other hand, the valve mechanism unit 4 has been configured to include the first valve 4u capable of opening and closing the intermediate port 2m and the second valve 4d capable of opening and closing the outlet 2e. However, the valve mechanism unit 4 is opened and closed only by the second valve 4d. The case is not excluded. In addition to the example, the alarm process can use various alarm processes such as an alarm process using sound and a transmission process using communication means. On the other hand, the control system 6 may be attached to the milk meter main body 1m or the like by separately configuring with a control box or the like. In addition, other functions (configurations) may be added to the milk meter 1 as necessary.

  The component lifetime management method according to the present invention can be used for managing component lifetimes in various milk meters that are attached to a milking machine or the like and measure milk volume.

  1: Milk meter, 2: Measuring container part, 2i: Inlet, 2m: Intermediate outlet, 2e: Outlet, 3: Liquid level detecting part, 4: Valve mechanism part, 4u: First valve, 4d: Second Valve: 5: Valve drive unit, 5d: Diaphragm, 6: Control system, (4 (4ug, 4dg), 5d (5do, 5di), 9 ...): Part of milk meter, 7: Resistance detection unit, 8: Alarm for component monitoring, 9: vacuum tube, Lm: feeding line, M: milk, Mu: milk level, Rd: detection resistance value, Te: limit discrimination time, Re: non-detection discrimination resistance value, Ks: air Liquid separation chamber, Km: Weighing chamber, D: Milk detection unit

Claims (8)

  A measuring container part connected to the middle of the feeding line and capable of storing milk flowing in from the inlet, a liquid level detecting part for detecting a liquid level of milk stored in the measuring container part, and the measuring container A valve mechanism that is driven by a valve drive unit that can open and close the outlet of the unit, and a control system that controls opening and closing of the valve mechanism when at least the liquid level detection unit detects a liquid level of a predetermined height. A method for managing a part life of a milk meter for managing a part life of a milk meter, wherein the milk detected by a milk detecting unit capable of detecting a resistance value of milk stored in the weighing container part in advance. A non-detection determination resistance value for determining a resistance value at the time of non-detection and a resistance value (detection resistance value) detected by the milk detection unit after switching the valve mechanism unit to the discharge side for discharging the stored milk The elapsed time that does not reach the non-detection discrimination resistance value is abnormal And the detection resistance value reaches the non-detection determination resistance value even after the limit determination time has elapsed after switching the valve mechanism to the discharge side during milking. A method for managing the life of parts of a milk meter, characterized by performing a predetermined alarm process when not.   The measuring container part is formed in a cylindrical shape, and an upper side is provided with an inflow port at an upper part, an intermediate port is provided at an intermediate part in the longitudinal direction, and an outflow port is provided at a lower part. In addition, the measuring chamber is configured between the intermediate port and the outlet, and the liquid level detection unit is arranged to detect at least the level of milk in the gas-liquid separation chamber. 1. A method for managing the life of a milk meter according to item 1.   3. The method for managing the life of parts of a milk meter according to claim 2, further comprising a resistance detection unit capable of detecting a resistance value of milk in the weighing chamber.   4. The method for managing the lifespan of a milk meter component according to claim 1, wherein the liquid level detection unit and / or the resistance detection unit is used as the milk detection unit.   The milk meter according to claim 2, 3 or 4, wherein the valve mechanism part is configured by a combination of a first valve capable of opening and closing the intermediate port and a second valve capable of opening and closing the outlet. Part life management method.   The milk according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the alarm process includes at least one or both of a display process for displaying a component monitoring alarm and a milking operation stop process for stopping a milking operation. How to manage the lifespan of a meter   The components in the milk meter include at least one or more of a first valve and a second valve in the valve mechanism unit, a diaphragm of the valve driving unit, and a vacuum tube connected to the valve driving unit. The part life management method for a milk meter according to any one of claims 1 to 6.   The time until the detection resistance value detected by the milk detection unit exceeds the non-detection determination resistance value after switching the valve mechanism to the discharge side is monitored. The part life management method for a milk meter according to any one of the above.

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