The design of robotic dairy barns using closed queuing networks

Abstract

In this paper we present a closed queueing network model for a robotic milking barn. We use an approximative mean-value algorithm to evaluate important performance criteria such as the number of cows waiting, their waiting time and the utilization of the facilities in the barn. It is shown how the results from the queueing network analysis can support the discussion about the optimal design of the robotic barn.