WO2024014965A1

WO2024014965A1 - Systems, methods and devices for spraying animal teats

Info

Publication number: WO2024014965A1
Application number: PCT/NZ2022/050097
Authority: WO
Inventors: Martin James FORSTER; Matthew MACDONALD
Original assignee: EIDNZ Limited
Priority date: 2022-07-15
Filing date: 2022-07-15
Publication date: 2024-01-18

Abstract

Provided are systems, methods and devices for spraying animal teats with an air/fluid mixture. Disclosed are new arrangements for teat spraying devices, and specific component values which optimise the delivery of air/fluid mixtures to the teats of animals. Examples include nozzle shapes sizes and configurations, pressure ranges, and disinfectant fluid volumes.

Description

SYSTEMS, METHODS AND DEVICES FOR SPRAYING ANIMAL TEATS

1. TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technology relates to the field of animal health, in particular the automated spraying of animal teats. The technology may find particular application in the automated spraying of the teats of lactating animals such as cows. However, this should not be seen as limiting on the present technology.

2. BACKGROUND ART

Teat sprayers are commonly used to disinfect the teats and udders of animals, such as cows, before and after milking, in order to reduce the amount of bacteria on the teat skin, reduce the chances of disease such as mastitis, Staph, aureus and Strep, uberis, to keep the teat skin supple and healthy, and to reduce the risk of infection, pain and animal welfare issues.

Mastitis also impacts milk quality and quantity. Farmers or Dairyman can incur financial penalties, or miss out on incentives, as a consequence of somatic cell count levels (caused by mastitis) which negatively impact milk quality. In addition, it is well documented that even subclinical mastitis results in less milk production and can also impact farm profitability.

In commercial milking applications, animals are moved through a milking shed or parlour (for example a rotary or herringbone shed), and cups are applied to the animals' teats which pump milk from the animals' udders to milk storage and cooling tanks. Once the animal has been milked, it is moved out of the shed, and the next animal moves in and the process is repeated until all animals within the herd have been milked.

As the milking apparatus is shared between multiple animals, failure to correctly disinfect an animal teat can not only cause issues for the affected animal, but also potentially the following animals to be milked using the same teat cups.

Cows get mastitis when their udders become infected with bacteria. This can happen when bacteria enter via teat or udder cracks, lesions or via the teat canal. Bacteria can exist on the udder and sometimes migrate to areas where they can then enter the udder. Label recommendations on registered teat spray labels from multinational companies such as DeLaval recommend spraying the "teat and associated udder" to ensure protection and coverage as products disinfect when in direct contact with bacteria.

Teat sprayers come in a number of different forms, including walk-over sprayers, wands which are generally used in rotary animal sheds, and hand-operated sprayers. There are also teat and cup disinfecting sprayers which are configured to operate within the milking cup itself. Teat disinfecting sprayers use a disinfectant solution which can comprise active ingredients such as Iodine, Chlorhexidine, Chlorine, Chloramine T, and acid anionic compounds such as dodecyl benzene sulphonic acid. These sprays can be relatively expensive, and therefore there is a need to balance the amount of spray used per animal against the effectiveness of disinfection. In addition some of these are known to cause eye or skin irritation, have an environmental impact and or are a marine pollutant e.g. chlorhexidine registered labels state "Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects". If used excessively they can also contaminate milk. This highlights the importance of minimising use for both economic, environmental and food safety reasons.

It is also desirable to reduce the amount of labour required to milk the animals and disinfect the animal teats. Accordingly automatic teat spraying devices are generally preferred in larger commercial milking sheds. Where automatic sprayers are used, it can be important to have confidence that the sprayer is accurately targeting the animal's teat, is not unnecessarily wasting the disinfectant solution.

The teat treatment process is further complicated by the animals' having different sizes and behaviours. For example, some animals may be frightened easily such as when the disinfecting solution is applied, or when approaching or exiting the milking shed.

It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country.

Throughout this specification, the word "comprise", or variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only. 3. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the technology there are provided systems, methods and devices for spraying animal teats.

According to another aspect of the technology, there are provided automated systems, methods and devices for spraying animal teats.

According to another aspect of the technology, there are provided systems methods and devices configured to automatically spray the teats of an animal as they enter or exit a milking shed.

According to another aspect of the technology, there are provided systems methods and devices configured to spray the teats with an aerosol comprising a disinfectant solution and air.

According to another aspect of the technology, there are provided systems methods and devices configured to reduce the amount of disinfectant solution used in the treatment of animal udders and teats.

According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a system for the automated spraying of animal udders and/or teats, the system comprising: an animal position detector; a spraying unit, configured to be walked over by animals in use; a pressurised source of disinfecting fluid; a pressurised source of air; and a controller, wherein, in use, the animal position detector is configured to monitor the position and/or speed of an animal relative to the spraying unit, and determine when the teats and/or udders of the animal are correctly positioned relative to the spraying unit, wherein when the correct position is determined the controller is configured to operate the spraying unit to release an aerosol spray which combines the pressurised source of disinfecting fluid with the pressurised source of air, and directs the aerosol spray towards the teats and udder of the animal, and further wherein, the controller is configured to control the release of the aerosol spray so as to limit the total volume of disinfecting fluid used per spray to 45ml or less.

According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a walkover spraying unit configured to be mounted to an entry or exit pathway of a milking shed, the spraying unit comprising: two or more spraying nozzles having a nozzle diameter of between 0.9mm and 1.5mm, a pressurised air connection, and a pressurised disinfectant fluid connection, wherein in use, the spraying unit is configured to receive a flow of pressurised air, and a flow of pressurised disinfectant fluid, and the spraying unit is configured to combine the flow of pressurised air, with the flow of pressurised disinfectant fluid, to provide an aerosol spray.

According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a method of spraying the teats and udders, of an animal walking over a walkover spraying unit, the method comprising the steps of:

A) detecting the position and or velocity of an animal using an animal position detector,

B) providing the position and or velocity information to a controller which is configured to determine when the animal is appropriately positioned above the spraying unit;

C) releasing a flow of pressurised fluid and air, in order to provide an aerosol spray which targets the teats and udder of the animal, based on the position and/or velocity information, wherein the flow of pressurised fluid and air is configured, such that the aerosol spray has a duration of between 0.5 and 0.75 seconds, and the total volume of disinfectant fluid sprayed is less than or equal to 45ml.

According to another aspect of the technology, there is provided a system for the automated spraying of animal udders and/or teats, the system comprising: an animal position detector; a spraying unit, configured to be walked over by animals in use; a pressurised source of disinfecting fluid, pressurised to between 35 and 50 PSI; a pressurised source of air, pressurised to between 10 to 40 PSI; and a controller, wherein, in use, the animal position detector is configured to monitor the position and/or speed of an animal relative to the spraying unit, and determine when the teats and/or udders of the animal are correctly positioned relative to the spraying unit, wherein when the correct position is determined the controller is configured to operate the spraying unit to release an aerosol spray which combines the pressurised source of disinfecting fluid with the pressurised source of air, towards the teats and udder of the animal.

In preferred embodiments of the technology, the system and/or spraying unit may be configured for installation at the entry or exit of a milking shed or parlour. For example, the entry or exit may comprise a walkway consisting of one or more rails, otherwise known as a race.

In preferred embodiments of the technology, the spraying unit may comprise one or more nozzles, configured to direct the aerosol spray towards the teats and udder of the animal. For example, the nozzles may comprise at least one nozzle measuring between 0.9 and 1.5mm. In some examples of the technology the nozzles may be configured to measure between 1.1mm and 1.4mm.

In preferred embodiments, the one or more nozzles may comprise at least one fan-shaped nozzle. For example, each of the nozzles may be fan nozzles, or the nozzles may include a combination of fan nozzles and cone nozzles.

In preferred embodiments, the spraying unit may comprise at least two nozzles. For example, the spraying unit may comprise four nozzles. Use of two or more nozzles may advantageously allow for better coverage of the animal's teats and/or udder.

In preferred examples, the nozzles may be configured with a spray angle of between 25 degrees and 110 degrees. For example, the nozzles may be fan nozzles having spray angles of between 25 degrees and 110 degrees.

In preferred embodiments, the spraying unit may comprise a central portion configured to lie substantially parallel to the direction of the walkway or race.

In preferred embodiments, the spraying unit may comprise one or more lateral members which extend in a perpendicular direction relative to the central portion.

In preferred embodiments, the central portion of the spraying unit may be configured to extend at least 500mm past the central portion. For example, the central portion of the spraying unit may be configured to extend 650mm past the central portion of the spraying unit.

In other embodiments, the central portion may be configured to extend at least 500mm past the last nozzle on the central portion. For example, in examples of the technology, where lateral members are not used, it may be advantageous to extend the central member at least 500mm, such as 650mm past the last nozzle location on the central portion.

Advantages of the present technology may include: • The ability to more accurately target the teats of the animal, and/or account or accommodate for the speed of movement and direction of the animal's movement;

• Reduced consumption of teat disinfectant, reducing costs and environmental impact;

• Providing not only a full teatspray system but also a retro-fit solution which can be added to existing teat spraying systems. Reducing the costs which would otherwise be required for system replacement.

• Better teat and udder coverage.

• At the very least, the present technology offers the public a useful choice.

4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present technology will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 shows a top-down view of a rotary milking shed in accordance with the present technology;

Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a teat-spraying system mounted in a race in accordance with the present technology.

Fig. 3 shows a simplified diagram of an animal position detector in accordance with the present technology;

Fig. 4A shows a block diagram of a first control system in accordance with the present technology;

Fig. 4B shows a block diagram of a second control system in accordance with the present technology;

Fig. 5A shows a perspective view of a spraying unit in accordance with the present technology;

Fig. 5B shows an underside view of the spraying unit of Fig 5A;

Fig. 5C shows a variant of the spraying unit of Fig. 5A in which a single spray nozzle is provided on each lateral side member; and

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of a teat-spraying system in accordance with the present technology in use spraying the teats and udder of a cow. 5. BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

5.1. OVERVIEW OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Fig. 1 shows an example of a milking shed, generally indicated by 100, in particular a rotary milking shed comprising an entrance 102, where the animals 104 enter the milking shed 100, and an exit 106 where the animals 104 exit the milking shed 100, the entrance and exits may commonly be referred to as entry and exit races as should be familiar to those skilled in the art. Throughout the present specification, reference to the term race should be understood as a narrow fenced or railed section which provides a walkway for animals, for example a fenced or railed section may be provided as part of a milking shed, such as the entry and exit walkways to and from a milking shed.

In use the animals enter into one of a number of milking bays 108, where cups are applied to the animal's teats for milking. Once the animal has been milked, the animal exits through the exit race 106. In the case of the rotary milking shed 100 illustrated in Fig. 1, the milking bays 108 are provided on a circular platform 110 which rotates during the milking process. In the illustrated example, the circular platform 110 rotates in a clockwise direction, which moves each milking bay in turn from the entry race 102 to the exit race 106. However, this should not be seen as limiting on the technology. For example, any rotational direction may be used, and in other examples of the technology, the milking bays 108 may be stationary, i.e. not configured to move or rotate, such as is common for parallel or herringbone milking sheds, which should be familiar to those skilled in the art.

In the example shown, both the entry race 102 and exit race 106 comprises a teat spraying system 112 in accordance with the present technology. This configuration however should not be seen as limiting on the technology, and in other examples the teat spraying systems 112 described herein may be used in any one or more of the entry race 102, the exit race 106, one or more of the milking bays, or in any other position which may be advantageous to spray an animal's teats.

Fig. 2 shows a close-up example of the teat spraying system 112 in accordance with the present technology. As shown the system comprises:

• A controller 202;

• An animal position detector 204; and

• A spraying unit 206 configured to spray the teats of the animal in use.

The animal position detector(s) 204, are typically mounted to the sides of the entry 102 or exit race 106, for example on the rails 208 of the race. In the illustrated example the system 112 comprises a first animal position detector on a first side of the race, and a second animal position detector on the second side of the race. However, this should not be seen as limiting on the technology, and in some examples a single animal position detector may be used.

In use the animal position detector 204, detects one or more of the position or movement of the animal, and relays information relating to the position or speed of the animal position to the controller 202. When the animal is in the optimal position to spray the teats and udder of the animal, or when the controller 202 determines, based on the movement of the animal, that the teats are likely to be in the right position at a certain time, the controller 202 activates one or more fluid control solenoids (not shown in Fig. 2) to release spray from the spraying unit 206 to thereby spray the teats of the animal 104.

It should be appreciated that the use of solenoids in the foregoing should not be seen as limiting on the technology and any appropriate technologies may be used to control the fluid flow, including but not limited to valves, taps, and flow switches.

5.2. ANIMAL POSITION DETECTION

The animal position detector 204 described herein, uses one or more sensors 302, and in the illustrated example, a plurality of sensors 302 (i.e., more than one sensor) are used to determine the position and/or velocity of the animal relative to the spraying unit 206.

The illustrated example comprises a plurality of sensors, configured to detect both the position and velocity of the animal through the race, or otherwise relative to the spraying unit 206. This sensor configuration is also configured to detect if the animal stops or backs up in the race based on the position and/or velocity information. This position and velocity information can then be used to ensure an accurate spray delivery to the teats and udder of the animal.

Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of an animal position detector 204 in accordance with the present technology. As shown the animal position detector 204 comprises a plurality of sensors configured to detect the position and/or speed of the animal. These sensors can include any one or more of: time-of- flight, photoelectric proximity sensors, through-beam light sensors, retroreflective light sensors, diffuse reflective light sensors, LIDAR, triangulation, ultrasonics, or any other sensor capable of detecting position and or speed known to those skilled in the art.

As the animal moves past the detector, each of the sensors 302 in turn detects either the presence of the animal, the speed of the animal and/or the distance of the animal from the sensor. Sequential detection by each of the sensors can be used to indicate an animal moving through along the race, and the rate at which the animal is detected by each of the sensors can be used to determine the speed or velocity of the animal. In some examples of the technology, the animal position detector 204, may comprise a transmitter positioned on a first side of the race, and a receiver positioned on the second side of the race. In this example, the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal which can be detected using the detector. When the transmitted signal is interrupted by an animal, this loss of signal can be detected and used to indicate when an animal is adjacent to the animal position detector.

In other examples of the technology, the animal position detector 204, may be positioned on a single side of the race only. For example, the animal position detector 204 may comprise a combination of transmitters and receivers, configured to detect the position and/or speed of the animal, for example by monitoring the signals reflected from the animal.

5.3. CONTROL SYSTEMS

A first block diagram of an exemplary control system 400 is shown in Fig. 4A. In this example the controller 202 is operatively connected to the animal position detector 204, the spraying unit 206, and a pressurised fluid source 402.

For example, the controller may be electrically connected to the animal position detector 204, such as using one or more power and communication wires, to be able to receive animal position and speed information from the animal position detector 204 in use.

When the controller 202 receives animal position information, or speed information from the animal position detector 204, the controller determines where the likely position of the animal's teats and udders are, and when the animals teats/udders are expected to be in the correct position relative to the spraying unit 206.

When the controller detects that the animal is in the correct position or predicts that the animal will be in the correct position, the controller is configured to activate a fluid control system 404, which can include one or more fluid control solenoids 406 which fluidly connect the pressurised fluid source 402 to the spraying unit 206.

Any one or more parameters of the fluid control system 404 may be directly controlled by the controller, such as the duration that the pressurised fluid source 402 is connected to the spraying unit 206, and therefore the spray duration, and total volume of teat disinfectant and/or air dispensed.

In one example of the technology, it can be advantageous to limit the total spray duration to between 0.5 and 0.75 seconds. For example, irrespective of whether the animal stops in position over the spraying unit 206, it may be advantageous to limit the total spray duration to no more than 0.75 seconds. In this way the total amount of spray used, can be minimised thereby saving costs, and reducing the environmental impacts. The inventors have found that a spray duration of between 0.5 and 0.75 seconds can be particularly advantageous for treatment of cattle udders and teats while minimising total spray volume used. Furthermore, the minimum spray time of 0.5 seconds has been found to provide a sufficient udder and teat coverage to ensure effective disinfecting.

It should be appreciated that the foregoing technology may be implemented with a range of different nozzle, and pressure configurations, as discussed in greater detail herein. Accordingly, there is a relationship between the nozzles and pressures used, the spray duration and the total amount of disinfectant solution sprayed in the 0.5 and 0.75 second spray time. Accordingly, in another example of the technology, the controller 202, and spraying unit may be configured to provide a total spray volume of disinfectant fluid which is less than or equal to 45ml.

The inventors have found that using less than or equal to 45ml is sufficient to provide an effective application of disinfectant solution to the animal's teats and udders, particularly when configured for use with cattle.

Another feature of the technology is that the controller may be configured to dynamically adjust the spray duration, and/or total disinfectant solution sprayed based on the behaviour of the animal. For example, if the animal position detector provides information indicating that the animal has moved away from the spraying unit, has stopped moving relative to the spraying unit, or is moving backwards relative to the spraying unit it may be advantageous to stop or otherwise dynamically adjust the spray duration to ensure that the animals teats are effectively covered without wasting too much of the disinfectant solution. For example, the controller may be configured to adjust the spray duration within 0.5 and 0.75 seconds, and/or the controller may be configured to adjust any number of operating parameters to limit the total spray volume to less than or equal to 45ml.

In some examples, to limit the total spray volume to 45ml or less, it may be sufficient to configure the spraying unit with appropriately selected nozzles, as used defined air and disinfecting fluid pressure ranges as described herein. Accordingly, the system may be configured such that with a maximum spray duration of 0.75 seconds, the total volume of disinfectant solution sprayed is less than or equal to 45ml.

While in other examples of the technology the controller 202 may be configured to adjust operating parameters of the system such as the air or disinfectant fluid pressures, the spraying duration, the relative timing or activation of the air relative to the disinfectant fluid, and enabling or disabling selected spraying nozzles in order to control the total spray volume to 45ml or less.

Note that while the fluid control system 404 is illustrated as being a component of the controller 202, this should not be seen as limiting on the technology, and the fluid control system may instead be a separate component of the control system which is operatively connected to the controller 202. In an alternative example shown in Fig. 4B, the fluid control system 404 may be provided as part of the spraying unit 206. For example, the fluid control system 404, and associated solenoids may be electrically connected to the controller using one or more electrical conductors or wires.

In preferred examples of the technology, the pressurised fluid source 402 comprises a disinfecting solution 408, and in some examples of the technology a pressurised air source 410. The inventors believe that it is advantageous for the air source to be pressurised to between 10 and 40 PSI, and the fluid source to be pressurised between 35 and 50 PSI. The inventors believe that these ranges, can result in an optimal delivery of disinfecting solution to the teats and udders of the animal while minimising the amount of disinfecting fluid wasted.

For example, it has been found that increasing the air source pressure above 40PSI, results in the disinfectant solution being sprayed from the spray nozzles at a velocity which can result in discomfort to the animals, increased spray noise levels which can startle the animals as well as resulting in aerosol droplet sizes which can be more easily dispersed or scattered in various directions by wind. Similarly reducing the pressure below 10PSI, results in the spray primarily consisting of the disinfectant fluid, which can affect the spray coverage of the udders, as well as increases the total volume of disinfecting solution used.

Similarly, a fluid source pressure range of between 35 and 50 PSI in combination with the aforementioned air source pressure ranges is believed to be beneficial in delivering an optimal disinfectant spray to the animal's teats and udders, particularly when the system is used in relation to cattle.

These aforementioned pressure ranges may also have benefits when used in combination with any one or more of the spray durations, nozzles sizes and configurations, and target spray volumes described herein.

Pressurising the fluid source 402 may be performed using any methods known to those skilled in the art including by using an air compressor or bottled compressed air source. For example, an air compressor, or bottled compressed air source may be connected to the top of a fluid reservoir, and an outlet on the bottom, or near to the bottom of the reservoir may be used to discharge the fluid under pressure.

Each fluid source may include a pressure regulator to enable setting the pressure ranges of the air source 410 and disinfectant fluid source 408 independently.

5.3.1. CONFIGURATION

In some examples of the technology described herein the controller may be configurable with one or more parameters including but not limited to: • The average size of the animal - for example this information may be used to determine where the animal's teats are likely to be relative to the body of the animal, and therefore the appropriate spray patterns, pressure ranges, and/or spray timings to be used to ensure good teat coverage.

• The position of the animal position detector 204 relative to the spraying unit 206. Accordingly, the controller may be configured to account for different race configurations or geometries.

• Spray settings, including the spray pressures, the ratio of air to fluid, the spray duration, total spray volume, spray direction, which of the nozzles of the spraying unit 206 should be activated, and whether a reserve fluid reservoir should be connected.

Configuration may be performed using any method known to those skilled in the art, including via a user interface on the controller, using one or more buttons or dials on the controller, remote configuration for example using a web browser or application on a smart phone, or by loading a configuration over a communications interface, such as from a wired or wireless network, removable media such as a USB stick, or a serial connection.

In some examples of the technology, the controller may be configured to self-configure or adjust over time. For example, the average size of the animal may be calculated based on the speed and/or position information of the animal moving through the race. Or the controller may be configured to switch between a first fluid reservoir and a second fluid reservoir when the fluid level in the first fluid reservoir reaches a predefined level, for example by way of a fluid level sensor.

5.4. SPRAYING UNITS

Figs. 5A, 5B and 5C show examples of spraying units 206 in accordance with the present technology. In the examples shown, the spraying unit 206 comprises a central portion 502 configured to extend along the race in a direction parallel with the sides or railing of the race.

The central portion 502 of the spraying unit 206 includes one or more spray nozzles 504 configured to spray the teats of an animal in use. In the illustrated example, two spray nozzles 504 are used, however this should not be seen as limiting on the technology, and in some examples a single nozzle 504 may be used, or more than two nozzles 504.

The central portion 502 of the spraying unit 206 preferably has a width which is less than the distance between the legs of the animals being sprayed, so as to be easily positioned within the animal's legs to allow for effective coverage of the animal's teats and udder. For example, the width of the spraying unit when adapted for use with cattle or other similarly sized animals, may preferably be less than 30cm or more preferably less than 20cm. The central portion of the spraying unit may also have a width which promotes separation of the animal's legs in use to allow for better spray coverage of the animal's teats and udders. For example, when adapted for use with cattle or other similarly sized animals, the spraying unit may have a width of greater than 10cm, or more preferably greater than 15cm.

The central portion of the spraying unit may also have a length which in use extends longitudinally along the length of the race, for example in the direction of travel of the animal. Wherein the length is at least 500mm past the nozzles 504, such as 650mm past the nozzles in the direction of travel of the animal. This length may advantageously encourage the animal to keep walking in a straight line with their legs spread, until the animal's teats and udder have been sprayed. The inventors have found that lengths of less than 500mm can result in the animal walking to one side of the race which can result in reduced access to the animals' teats and udder.

The central portion may further have a low-profile construction, to not deter an animal from crossing over the unit. For example, when adapted for use with cattle or other similarly sized animals, the height of the central portion may preferably be less than 15cm or more preferably less than 10cm.

The spraying unit also comprises two lateral members 506 extending outwardly of the central portion, these lateral members 506A, 506B comprise one or more spray nozzles 504 also configured to spray the teats and/or udder of the animal in use. In the example shown in Fig. 5A and 5B three spray nozzles 504 are provided on each lateral member 506A, 506B, however this should not be seen as limiting on the technology for example in Fig. 5C a single spray nozzle is used on each lateral side member.

In the illustrated example the spray nozzles, both in the central portion 502 and lateral members 506A, 506B are recessed below an outer surface of the spraying unit 206 such that they are protected from damage from an animal stepping on the spraying unit 206 in use.

By positioning one or more spray nozzles 504 laterally from the central member, the present technology allows for the sides of the animal's teats and udder to receive a thorough and effective spray coating.

For example, the spray nozzles in the lateral members 506A, 506B, may be configured to spray upwardly and inwardly towards a point above the midline of the central unit.

Furthermore, in some examples of the technology, it can be advantageous to position the spray nozzles in the central portion 502, in a different axis to the spray nozzles of the lateral members 506A, 506B. These spray nozzles may similarly be configured to spray inwardly towards the axis of the lateral members and upwardly towards a point above the midline of the lateral members, accordingly a multidirectional spray pattern may be produced which can provide better teat coverage than existing spray technologies. 5.4.1. AEROSOL SPRAYING

One feature of the present technology is the ability to spray the teats of the animal with an air/fluid mixture, or aerosolised droplets of disinfecting fluid. This advantageously can allow for a more dispersed spray pattern and reduce the total amount of disinfecting fluid required by the system.

To facilitate this, the spraying unit 206 is provided with a pneumatic connection 508 and a hydraulic connection 510 which in use carry pressurised air and pressurised disinfecting solutions respectively. The pneumatic connection 508 and a hydraulic connection 510 may be selectively switched by the controller to provide a flow of fluid, and/or aerosolised fluid droplets as described herein, for example using one or more solenoids 406 as described herein.

For example, in one aspect of the technology, the pneumatic and hydraulic connections 508, 510 are provided with pressurised fluid, and the spraying unit comprises fluid switching components 512 such as one or more solenoids. In use, when the controller determines the appropriate time to dispense the disinfecting solution, an electronic signal is provided from the controller to one or more solenoids within the spraying unit, for example by a wired 514 or wireless connection. The electronic signal can be used to control the fluid switching components 512 to release the disinfecting solution as a spray through the one or more nozzles 504.

In one example, the electronic signal may be configured to simultaneously control a first solenoid 516 connected to the pneumatic connection, and a second solenoid 518 connected to the hydraulic connection. For example, the first solenoid and second solenoid may be wired in parallel, such that both solenoids are activated at the same time, and the air and fluid is mixed, either within the fluid switching components 512 or within each of the one or more nozzles 504.

In another example, the first solenoid 516 and second solenoid 518 may be configured such that there is a delay between activation of each solenoid. For example, it may be advantageous to first activate the first solenoid 516 connected to the pressurised air, before activating the second solenoid connected to the pressurised fluid 518 to ensure effective generation of an aerosol of the disinfectant fluid. In other words, providing the pressurised fluid to a stream of pressurised air may advantageously aid in the mixing and atomisation or conversion of the disinfectant fluid to an aerosol.

The delay may be achieved by any method known to those skilled in the art including providing a delay circuit within the spraying unit 206, such as an electronic signal delay or mechanical switching delay. In another example, a plurality of electronic signals/control lines 514 may be provided from the controller 202, each of which may be configured to activate one or more of the solenoids 516, 518 within the spraying unit. In a yet further example, any one or more of the nozzles 504 described herein may be provided with independent flow control, for example one or more of the nozzles 504 may be disabled by the controller 202. This may be beneficial on mixed stock properties, where the teats of different sized animals are sprayed. A further advantage is that the controller 202 or spraying unit 206 can be configured for the specific installation site or use case. In other words, the one or more nozzles may be enabled or disabled as required, such as by using the control circuitry and solenoids described herein.

For example, any one or more of the nozzles 504 may be provided with control solenoids 516, 518 which can be activated or deactivated by the controller as required, alternatively or additionally, any one or more of the nozzles may be provided with taps that may be manually activated and deactivated as required.

5.4.2. NOZZLE CONFIGURATION

In the foregoing examples the spraying unit 206 comprises nozzles positioned in the central portion 502 together with nozzles in the lateral members 506A, 506B of the spraying unit 206. A further advantage of this configuration is that it allows for multiple different nozzles to be used to further optimise the spray pattern, and ultimately the teat and udder spray coverage on the animal.

In one example of the technology, the spraying unit comprises nozzles having a nozzle diameter of between 0.9mm and 1.5mm. For example, the spraying unit may comprise a plurality of fan nozzles each having a nozzle diameter of between 0.9mm and 1.5mm, such as between 1.1 and 1.4mm. The exact nozzle selection may depend on the size of the animals being sprayed, and the associated pressure ranges described herein. In one example, the present invention involves a combination of fan nozzles and cone nozzles in the spraying unit. For example, the nozzles in the central portion 502 may be cone nozzles, while the nozzles used in the lateral portions 506A, 506B may be fan nozzles. In a further preferred example of the technology, the spray radiuses of each of the respective nozzles may also be customised to optimise the spray pattern.

In one example where a plurality of nozzles are used in each lateral member, the fan nozzles positioned in the lateral members 506A may each have gradually increasing spray angles from the outermost nozzle to the innermost nozzle. For example, the spray nozzle 504 furthest from the central portion 502 may be a fan nozzle having a spray angle of between 10 and 40 degrees, or more preferably between 20 and 30 degrees, such as a 25-degree spray angle, in contrast the spray nozzle closest to the central portion may have a wider spray angle such as between 35 and 65 degrees, or more preferably between 40 and 60 degrees, such as 50-degrees.

Where more than two spray nozzles are used on each lateral member 506A, 506B it may be advantageous for each of the spray angles to get progressively wider as the nozzles get closer to the central portion. This approach may advantageously reduce the amount of disinfectant solution which would otherwise be wasted due to over-spraying, or poorly targeted spraying.

Similarly, the use of nozzles smaller than 1.5mm has been found to be beneficial. Conventional wisdom is to use larger nozzle with a diameter exceeding 1.5mm to ensure that sufficient disinfecting solution is provided to the teats and udders or the animals. However, the inventors have found that smaller nozzle diameters, such as less than 1.5mm, or more preferably between than 1.4mm and 1.1mm are advantageous for producing a fine aerosol mist, as well as reducing the total volume of disinfectant solution used.

These features in combination can further be used to provide improved teat spraying devices. For example, the combination of any one or more of:

• The use of fan nozzles the spray angle of which decreases with distance from the central portion;

• The use of nozzles with a diameter of 1.5mm or less.

• The use of air/fluid mixtures;

• The use of air and or fluid pressures as described herein..

5.5. RETROFIT SOLUTIONS

Another feature of the present technology is to provide a system or kit-set of parts for retrofitting, modifying or upgrading existing teat spraying technologies which spray disinfecting fluid only. This system allows existing technologies to take advantage of the aforementioned advantages of having an atomised or aerosol teat spraying system.

One example of the kit-set of parts comprises:

• A pneumatic connection 508 and air tubing which can be installed in the spraying unit 206; and

• At least one solenoid which can be added to the fluid switching components 512 to control the flow of air from the pneumatic connection to the one or more solenoids 504.

The installer can then connect a pressurised air source 402 to the pneumatic connection 508 in order to provide an aerosol spray solution.

While the foregoing provides a minimal set of components which may be provided as a kitset, in order to take advantage of some of the other benefits described herein, some forms of the technology may also comprise: • Replacement nozzles which can include any one or more of nozzles having different shapes, such as fan and cone nozzles, nozzles having different spray angles, such as between 25 and 50 degrees, and nozzles having a diameter of 2mm or less.

In other examples, the spraying system may also be reconfigured for example any one or more of the following settings may be changed:

• The pressure of the disinfectant fluid and/or air, such as adjusting the air pressure to between 10 and 40PSI or the fluid pressure between 35 and 50 PSI;

• Changing the timing or duration of the air and/or disinfectant fluid spraying, for example to reduce the total amount of spray used, to improve the atomisation / conversion of the fluid to a aerosol.

5.6. SYSTEMS IN USE

Fig.6 shows one example of a teat spraying system 600 in accordance with the present technology in use. In the example shown an animal 104 such as a cow walks over the teat sprayer 206, and their position and speed is determined using an animal position detector 204 as described herein. In the illustrated example, a single animal position detector 204 has been used, but this should not be seen as limiting on the technology.

The animal's position and/or speed is communicated to a controller 202 as described herein but not shown in Fig. 6 for simplicity. When the controller determines that the animal 104 is in the correct position over the teat sprayer 206, it releases an air/fluid spray mixture as an aerosol 602 through the one or more nozzles 504.

In the illustrated example, the aerosol is only shown as being sprayed from the nozzles in the central portion 502, and one of the lateral members 506 for sake of simplicity, however it may be sprayed from any combination of one or more of the nozzles as described herein. As illustrated, by spraying the udders and teats from various angles, it is possible for the present technology to provide a more consistent, and complete coverage of the animal's teats and udders.

5.7. DISCLAIMERS

The foregoing technology may be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features. Aspects of the present technology have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

6. CLAIMS

1. A system for the automated spraying of animal udders and/or teats, the system comprising: an animal position detector; a spraying unit, configured to be walked over by animals in use; a pressurised source of disinfecting fluid; a pressurised source of air; and a controller, wherein, in use, the animal position detector is configured to monitor the position and/or speed of an animal relative to the spraying unit, and determine when the teats and/or udders of the animal are correctly positioned relative to the spraying unit, wherein when the correct position is determined the controller is configured to operate the spraying unit to release an aerosol spray which combines the pressurised source of disinfecting fluid with the pressurised source of air, and direct the aerosol spray towards the teats and udder of the animal, and further wherein, the controller is configured to control the release of the aerosol spray so as to limit the total volume of disinfecting fluid used per spray to 45ml or less.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the animal position detector comprises a first animal position detector, configured to be mounted to a first side of an entry or exit race, and a second animal position detector configured to be mounted to a second side of an entry or exit race.

3. The system of claims 1 or 2, wherein the animal position detector comprises a plurality of sensors configured to monitor the position and/or speed of the animal.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the sensors comprise one or more of: time-of-flight, photoelectric proximity sensors, through-beam light sensors, retroreflective light sensors, diffuse reflective light sensors, LIDAR, triangulation, and/or ultrasonic sensors.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the spraying unit comprises a central portion configured to extend longitudinally in the direction of the animal's movement in use.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the spraying unit comprises one or more lateral members extending substantially perpendicular to the central portion.

7. The system of claim 5 or 6, wherein the central portion comprises at least one nozzle configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

8. The system of claim 7 wherein the central portion comprises two nozzles, offset from one another in at least one direction, each of the two nozzles being configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

9. The system of claim 6, wherein each of the one or more lateral members comprises at least one nozzle configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

10. The system of any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the one or more nozzles each have a nozzle diameter of between 0.9mm and 1.5mm.

11. The system of any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the one or more nozzles each have a nozzle diameter of between 1.1mm and 1.4mm.

12. The system of any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the one or more nozzles are fan nozzles.

13. The system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the pressurised source of disinfecting fluid is pressurised to between 35 and 50 PSI.

14. The system of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the pressurised source of air is pressurised to between 10 and 40 PSI.

15. The system of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the controller is configured to release the aerosol spray with a total spray duration of between 0.5 and 0.75 seconds.

16. A walkover spraying device configured to be mounted to an entry or exit pathway of a milking shed, the spraying device comprising: two or more spraying nozzles having a nozzle diameter of between 0.9mm and 1.5mm, a pressurised air connection, and a pressurised disinfectant fluid connection, wherein in use, the spraying unit is configured to receive a flow of pressurised air, and a flow of pressurised disinfectant fluid, and the spraying unit is configured to combine the flow of pressurised air, with the flow of pressurised disinfectant fluid, to provide an aerosol spray.

17. The spraying device of claim 16, further comprising a central portion configured to extend longitudinally in the direction of the animal in use.

18. The spraying device of claim 16 or 17, further comprising one or more lateral members extending substantially perpendicular to the central portion.

19. The spraying device of claim 17 or 18, wherein the central portion comprises at least one nozzle configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

20. The spraying device of claim 19 wherein the central portion comprises two nozzles, offset from one another in at least one direction, each of the two nozzles being configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

21. The spraying device of any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the nozzles each have a nozzle diameter of between 1.1mm and 1.4mm.

22. The spraying device of any one of claims 16 to 21, wherein the nozzles are fan nozzles.

23. The spraying device of any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the flow of pressurised disinfectant fluid is pressurised to between 35 and 50 PSI.

24. The spraying device of any one of claims 16 to 23, wherein the flow of pressurised air is pressurised to between 10 and 40 PSI.

25. A method of spraying the teats and udders, of an animal walking over a walkover spraying unit, the method comprising the steps of:

A) detecting the position and / or velocity of an animal using an animal position detector,

26. The method of claim 1, wherein step of detecting the position and / or velocity of the animal is performed using a first animal position detector, mounted to a first side of an entry or exit race, and a second animal position detector mounted to a second side of an entry or exit race.

27. The method of claim 25 or 26, wherein the detection of the position and velocity of the animal is detected using one or more sensors selected from the list of: time-of-flight, photoelectric proximity sensors, through-beam light sensors, retroreflective light sensors, diffuse reflective light sensors, LIDAR, triangulation, and/or ultrasonic sensors.

28. The method of any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the step of releasing the flow of pressurised fluid and air, comprises the release of the pressurised fluid and air from a plurality of spray nozzles.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the plurality of spray nozzles each have a nozzle diameter of between 0.9mm and 1.5mm.

30. The method of claim 28 or 29, wherein the plurality of spray nozzles comprises fan nozzles.

31. The method of any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the step of releasing the flow of pressurised fluid and air, involves the release of fluid pressurised to between 35 and 50 PSI.

32. The method of any one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the step of releasing the flow of pressurised fluid and air, involves the release of air pressurised to between 10 and 40PSL

33. A system for the automated spraying of animal udders and/or teats, the system comprising: an animal position detector; a spraying unit, configured to be walked over by animals in use; a pressurised source of disinfecting fluid, pressurised to between 35 and 50 PSI; a pressurised source of air, pressurised to between 10 to 40 PSI; and a controller, wherein, in use, the animal position detector is configured to monitor the position and/or speed of an animal relative to the spraying unit, and determine when the teats and/or udders of the animal are correctly positioned relative to the spraying unit,

34. The system of claim 33, wherein the animal position detector comprises a first animal position detector, configured to be mounted to a first side of an entry or exit race, and a second animal position detector configured to be mounted to a second side of an entry or exit race.

35. The system of claims 33 or 34, wherein the animal position detector comprises a plurality of sensors configured to monitor the position and/or speed of the animal.

36. The system of claim 35, wherein the sensors comprise one or more of: time-of-flight, photoelectric proximity sensors, through-beam light sensors, retroreflective light sensors, diffuse reflective light sensors, LIDAR, triangulation, and/or ultrasonic sensors.

37. The system of any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the spraying unit comprises a central portion configured to extend longitudinally in the direction of the animal's movement in use.

38. The system of claim 37, wherein the spraying unit comprises one or more lateral members extending substantially perpendicular to the central portion.

39. The system of claim 37 or 38, wherein the central portion comprises at least one nozzle configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

40. The system of claim 39 wherein the central portion comprises two nozzles, offset from one another in at least one direction, each of the two nozzles being configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

41. The system of claim 38, wherein each of the one or more lateral members comprises at least one nozzle configured to release the aerosol spray in use.

42. The system of any one of claims 39 to 41, wherein the one or more nozzles each have a nozzle diameter of between 0.9mm and 1.5mm.

43. The system of any one of claims 39 to 42, wherein the one or more nozzles each have a nozzle diameter of between 1.1mm and 1.4mm.

44. The system of any one of claims 39 to 43, wherein the one or more nozzles are fan nozzles.

45. The system of any one of claims 39 to 44, wherein the controller is configured to release the aerosol spray with a total spray duration of between 0.5 and 0.75 seconds.