Abstract: An identification device wherein a flexible elongated strap is adapted for disposition into encircling relation about an extremity of an animal, such as, the legs or neck, comprising at least opposite ends of the strap composed of a heat-fusible, inelastic material. Opposite ends of the strap are temporarily secured as a preliminary to permanent fastening, and temporary securing means in the form of complementary fastening members at opposite ends of the strap operate to secure opposite ends in overlapping relation to one another. A partially embedded heating element in one end of the strap projects in contacting relation with the other end and has a melting point above that of the material of the opposite ends so that when current is applied thereto sufficient to melt the strap, it will simultaneously fuse opposite ends of the strap together.

Abstract: A milking unit support and detacher mechanism for supporting a milking unit when the milking unit is attached to a cow for milking. The milking unit support and detacher mechanism includes a milking unit support arm having an end for supporting a milking unit and means for supporting the milking unit support arm for pivotal movement about a generally vertical axis wherein the arm is movable from a rearward position to a forward position. The supporting means includes a generally vertical shaft rotatable about the vertical axis and supporting the support arm. The vertical shaft is supported such that it is freely rotatable about the vertical axis except when the support arm is between the rearward position and the forward position. The supporting means further includes means for biasing the arm forwardly when the arm is in the rearward position and for biasing the arm rearwardly when the arm is in the forward position.

Abstract: A milking unit support and detacher mechanism for supporting a milking unit when the milking unit is attached to a cow for milking. The milking unit support and detacher mechanism includes a milking unit support arm movable between a first position wherein the arm extends outwardly for supporting a milking unit when the milking unit is attached to a cow for milking. The milking unit support and detacher mechanism also includes means for supporting the milking unit support arm for movement between the first position and the second position, and means for retracting the milking unit and for moving the milking unit support arm from the second position to the first position, the retracting means including a flexible retracting member connected to the milking unit, and means for pulling on the flexible retracting member.

Abstract: A milk volume metering method and apparatus is particularly suitable for use in automated or semiautomated milking systems of the type which will permit computerized monitoring of the total volumes produced by each cow, flow capacity, and conductivity, temperature of each cow during the milking operation. Other functions can be closely monitored and controlled preliminary to, during and after the milking operation.