Abstract: In the case of a method and of a device for automatically extracting milk, long milk hoses having a large internal diameter are used, which permit an optimum mode of operation in combination with the highest possible flows of milk. In addition, the flow cross-section of the milk discharge system of the milking unit is controlled during the relief cycle at a predetermined point in dependence upon the pressure prevailing below the teat or in dependence upon the milk to be discharged. In this way, cows having different flows of milk can be milked in the best possible manner with the aid of only one kind of long milk hose.

Abstract: In a method for mechanically extracting milk, the pressure in the pulsator chamber of a teat cup is, with regard to the milking vacuum effective below the teat, controlled in such a way that, with due regard to a pressure which is required for folding in a teat rubber and which depends on the respective teat rubber used, a pressure difference between 5 kPa and 35 kPa will act on the teat in order to avoid pathological modifications of the teats.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a device for cleaning milking cups. Known devices of this type have a cleaning element which is adapted to be attached to a milking cup and which is adapted to be used for rinsing the milking-cup interior and for spraying rinsing liquid onto the end face of the milking cup so as to clean the outer surface thereof. The present invention provides an improved cleaning device comprising a cleaning element which is adapted to be attached to the milking cup such that a flow chamber is formed for producing a rinsing flow along an outer surface area of the milking cup which is to be cleaned. By means of this solution according to the present invention, an improved cleaning effect is achieved and the rinsing agent conducted through the flow chamber can then be used for cleaning the interior of the milking cup.