Galactor milking taxi suitable for disabled

EVEN people with physical handicaps can carry out milking independently, said the Eurotier judges, when they awarded manufacturer, Siliconform Vertriebs, of Germany, a gold medal for the Galactor (see cover picture).

This award-winning prototype is designed for auto-tandem milking parlours. Called a milking taxi, and compared by some to a stair-lift, the Galactor transports, strapped-in, the milker in a pod on rails running the length of the parlour pit. Production is expected to start this year, and the device is suitable for herds of up to 100 cows.

The milker stays in an ergonomically-optimised position on the pod, for all activities, such as pre-milking, udder cleaning, attaching and teat dipping. All tasks should be possible without standing, leaning or stretching. The manufacturers say farmers who suffer from a disability or injury can continue milking with the Galactor.

The final, automated cleaning of the milking parlour is also carried out through the Galactor, to save labour and time.