Development of models for calculation of the optimal number of milking units in tethering-houses and loose housing systems

Milking is a very time-consuming task, and many dairy farmers increase the number of milking units to increase the milking capacity. However, the intr oduction of additional milking units only reduces the milking time as long as the milker has idle time during milking. The aim of the present research was to model how the number of milking units influences the milker's idle time. The models developed were based on detailed time studies and observat ion of machine milking time and working routine of milking on thirteen comm ercial dairy farms. Preliminary results are shown.