Comparative analysis of plane geometric parameters of various types of cow milking parlors

Geometric planning parameters of milking parlors of similar capacity and different arrangement of animals on cow platform were analyzed. Indicator (K) was calculated to reflect the ratio of length (L) to width (W) of the cow platform. It can be used by designers and farmers for practical purposes to select the type or capacity of a cow milking parlor when reconstruction an existing facility (at particular planning parameters available). This study discusses alternative solutions for milking parlors of various configurations (tandem, herringbone, and parallel type parlors) of capacity from 2x5 to 2x10 cows. The following planning parameters were investigated: absolute and relative (per milking stall) floorage area of milking parlors with various configuration (without entrance/exit traffic lanes) at respective capacity; ratio indicator (К) of the main dimensions (length and width) of the milking zone as guidance for selection of a milking parlor at specified conditions (reconstruction of existing facility). For each alternative the dimensions (length and width) at respective capacity and configuration were taken, and only the milking zone without animal entrance and exist lanes was considered. Conclusions drawn from the results are aimed at minimizing the relative area of milking stalls in the design of milking parlors at specified technological conditions.