Automatic Takeoffs

Automatic Takeoffs

(any device that removes the milking cluster automatically)

Disability or Health Condition: Back and neck pain, shoulder or joint pain, arthritis, and health conditions affecting one's ability to milk

Description/Purpose: Used with a rail system or in a parlor setting, automatic takeoffs can be installed. The takeoffs automatically release the milking unit from the udder of the cow when the milking is finished. With a rail system, the takeoffs are pulled up and away from the cow – ready to be moved along the rail to the next cow. This reduces the amount of squatting and bending that is required to check the cow and remove the milking unit.

Automatic takeoffs can eliminate at least 100 instances of squatting or bending per day and can help conserve joints.

For many farmers, this device can help them return to safe and independent equipment operation. Adding automatic takeoffs can be beneficial to a farmer by:

• Improving ergonomics
• Eliminating strain on neck, shoulders, back, and other joints
• Increasing the number of cows milked per farmer per hour
• Reducing over-milking

Examples: 

• DeLaval Website: https://www.delaval.com/en-us/catalog/ 

• GEA: Dairy Farming 
  Website: https://www.gea.com/en/dairy-farming/index.jsp 

Price Range: $5,000-35,000 (price dependent on configuration, type of unit(s), type of milking operation)