Abstract: The present invention relates to a cushioning device for supporting a large animal such as a cow or a horse. The cushioning device comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, said top surface and bottom surface forming a chamber, and an amount of a gelatinous filling material disposed within the chamber. The present invention relates also to methods of transporting and installing a cushioning device for supporting a large animal. The method comprises transporting the cushioning device and a compound capable of creating a gel upon contact with a liquid may be delivered separately to the site. At the remote site the compound may be disposed within the chamber and the chamber may then be filled with an amount of liquid to create the gel within the cushioning device. The compound may also be delivered to the site already disposed within the chamber.

Abstract: A valve system for use in an inflatable bladder having two opposing layers and a bladder interior disposed between the two layers, the valve system includes (i) an aperture disposed at a position on one layer for filling and deflating the bladder interior,

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cushioning device for supporting a large animal such as a cow or a horse. The cushioning device comprises a top surface, a bottom surface, said top surface and bottom surface forming a chamber, and an amount of a gelatinous filling material disposed within the chamber. The present invention relates also to methods of transporting and installing a cushioning device for supporting a large animal. The method comprises transporting the cushioning device and a compound capable of creating a gel upon contact with a liquid may be delivered separately to the site. At the remote site the compound may be disposed within the chamber and the chamber may then be filled with an amount of liquid to create the gel within the cushioning device. The compound may also be delivered to the site already disposed within the chamber.

Abstract: A system is provided herein for monitoring the quality of milk which is stored at a dairy facility comprising sensors, e.g., analog and/or digital sensors that are installed on equipment on a dairy farm. Such sensors report information through a communication device that sends the information, e.g., over wire-line or wireless telephony to a network operations center. The network operation center includes resident software which is programmed to interpret that information. Then, the software firstly determines whether the dairy farm operator needs to receive an alert or informational message via telephone or any other electronic communications device suggesting that the operator take appropriate action. Secondly, if necessary, the software then presents the alert and sensor information on a customized secure web site that the operator can access to review the information and prepare the compliance reporting for, e.g., HACCP-type activities.