AU2008201117A1 - Bee Hive - Google Patents

Description

2008 03/11 11:22 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT ]004/045 00 1 00 0 ct

AUSTRALIA

PATENTS ACT 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT "Bee Hive" The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me: COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 20803/11 11:22 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT Q~005/045 2 0 Ct BEE BIVE, Fleld of the Invention The present invention relates to a bee hive enclosure that can be used in harvesting bee honey.

00 oto Background It is knowrn to provide an enclosure within which bees build a hive such that bee honey and/or wax can be harvested. For the purposes of this specification, such an enclosure is referred to as a "bee hive", or simpiy a "hive", unless the context indicates otherwise. Such bee hives consist of one or more boxes that are vertically stacked, and a lid that rests on the uppermost box. In use, a bee colony builds its hive within the enclosure.

Each of the boxes is provided with a plurality of panels on which the bees build honeycomb to store the honey. The panels are suspended vertically within a respective box, and can be removed for harvesting and/or storage.

Bees maintain the temperature within their hive at an optimal temperature of about 34 0 C. If the temperature falls too far below the optimal temperature the brood will die, If the temperature increases too far about the optimal temperature the bees will die.

Bees also maintain the humidity within their hive at an optimal humidity of approximately 50%. The bees form honey by evaporating moisture from the nectar.

Excess humidity reduces the rate of evaporation of moisture from the nectar- The bees can enhance evaporation by fanning the nectar with their wings. However, this COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time (I-tm) 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:23 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MOCMPNAfj00/4 MORCOM PERNAT R006/045 003 0 requires worker bees to work on maintaining the bee hive conditions rather tan foraging for nectar.

Where the humidity and temperature within the hive exceed that in the atmospheric conditions, there is a tendency for condensation to form on the internal surfaces of the hive.

A commercial apiary may consist of several hundred bee hives. When the hives are c-I ready for harvest, each hive, including the boxes, panels and lid, is placed in a 00 transport vehicle and transported to a processing facility. In some vehicles, it is necessary to stack multiple hives on top of one another.

There are a number of problems that arise during transport. One significant problem is the stability of the hives, particularly when being stacked. Another significant is problem is that during transport the hives can be shaken. Such agitation can cause honey to be dislodged and deposited on the internal surfaces of the hive and/or released from the hive. Honey that drips from the hive can spread diseases between colonies of bees.

It is know that bees can become lost when returning to their hive and enter another colony's hive believing it to be their own. This problem often occurs where a number of hives are closely located, such as in a commercial apiary. this problem is commonly known as "bee drift". one consequence of bee drift is the spread of disease between colonies.

Summary of the Invention The present invention provides in one aspect a bee hive enclosure comprising, a base; a wall extending -upwardly from the base, surrounding a hive cavity for bees; a lid; and an access opening through which bees can enter or exit the enclosure, COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:23 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT lihj007/045 00 4 0 wherein the bee hive enclosure includes moisture/humidity control means chosen from at least one of, a sloping base arranged to direct liquid accumulating on the base to flow through an outlet, and a ventilation cavity defined between a spacer member and the lid when it is mounted on the spacer member, the ventilation cavity being in fluid comnnunication with the interior cavity of the bee hive enclosure through a breathing opening in the spacer and ventilation means associated with the ventilation cavity and the external 0 environment whereby moist air may rise from the bee hive enclosure through the 00 ventilation cavity and out of the ventilation means.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a spacer member for use in a bee hive enclosure having a box with walls and an open top and defining a hive cavity within which bees can build a hive, and a lid for protecting the hive from weather, the spacer member comprising: a lower surface that can be supported on the walls of the box; an opposing upper surface; a plurality of projections that extend upwardly from the upper surface on which the lid can be supported such that an upper cavity is defined between the upper surface and the lid; and an opening such that the hive cavity and the upper cavity are in fluid communication; wherein warm air and moisture can move from the hive cavity into the upper cavity and exit the enclosure between the projections.

Preferably, the projections are provided at the peripheral edge of the spacer member.

Preferably, the projections form a castellated e dge on the upper surface of the spacer member.

Preferably, the opening is disposed centrally of the spacer member.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:23 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT id&O8/045 005 0Preferably, the upper surface of the spacer member is sloped downwardly and outwardly from the opening.

Preferably, a screen is provided across the opening to prevent bees and/or predators passing through the opening.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure having a box with walls and an open top and defning a hive cavity within which bees can build a 0 hive, a spacer member as previously described that is supported on the walls of the o0 10 box, and a lid for protecting the hive from weather, the lid being supported on the 0 plurality of projections of the spacer member.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure for harvesting of honey, the enclosure comprising: a base, walls that extend upwardly from the base, a lid, and an opening through which bees can enter/exit the enclosure is provided in one of walls adjacent the base, wherein the base has an internal surface that slopes downwardly generally towards the opening such that liquid that collects on the internal bottom surface of the base can be discharged through the opening.

Preferably, the enclosure further comprises a separate base portion and one or more boxes that form the upwardly extending walls.

Preferably, the opening is provided in the base portion. More preferably, the lowermost point of the internal bottom surface is adjacent the opening.

in another aspect, the present invention may provide a bee hive enclosure for harvesting honey, the enclosure comprising a base, upwardly extending walls and a lid, COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:23 FAX ±61 3 9543 2711 MRO ENTIjO/4 MORCOM PERNAT Q009/045 00 6 0 wherein one of the lid and the base is provided with an outwardly projecting raised section, and the other of the base and the lid is provided with a recessed section that is of complementary shape to the raised section, and wherein the base of the enclosure can be placed on the lid of another like enclosure and relative lateral movemnent of the two enclosures is restricted.

Preferably, the raised section is provided on the lid, and the recessed section is provided in the baseo0 10 Preferably, the shape of the raised section in a horizontal plane is an irregular 0 hexagon. More preferably, two opposing edges of the raised section are coincident with two opposing peripheral edges of the lid or base. Even more preferably, the internal angle between two adjacent edges of the irregular hexagon, which extend between the two opposing peripheral edges of the lid or base, is greater than 1450.

More preferably, the internal angle is approximately Preferably, the width of the raised section decreases in a direction away from the cavity defined by the enclosure. Preferably, the width of the recessed section decreases in a direction towards the cavity defined by the enclosure.

The present invention may also provide a transfer for application to a bee hive enclosure, the transfer comprising a surface bearing a pattern that can be distinguished by a bee.

Preferably, the pattern is a rotationally synmnetrical pattern.

Preferably, the transfer fuirther comprises an identification indicia that can be read by a human or a human operated machine. More preferably, the identification indicia is unique to the corresponding pattern on the transfer. Even more preferably, the identification indicia is an alphanumeric identifier. In one embodiment, the identification indicia comprises a number only.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:23 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MRO ENTIh1/4 MORCOM PERNAT U010/045 007 0 In one embodiment, the transfer comprises an adhesive on the surface opposing the surface bearing the pattern.

The present invention further provides a bee hive enclosure comprising a pattern, which can be distinguished by a bee, on an external surface of the enclosure such that bees can identify their hive by recognition of the pattern.

Preferably, the pattern is located adjacent an opening in the enclosure through which 0 bees can enter/exit the enclosure.

o0 0 Preferably, the pattern is provided on a transfer as previously described.

The present invention further provides an apiary comprising a plurality of bee hive enclosures that each have a pattern as previously described, wherein each of the plurality of enclosures is provided with a pattern that is different to the patterns of the other enclosures.

The present invention provides a bee hive enclosure defining a hive cavity within which bees can establish a hive, the enclosure comprising: a side wall having an opening through which bees can enter/exit the enclosure, and an elongate rail that extends along the side wall, the opening extending through the rail, wherein the rail is profiled such that an attachment can be slid longitudinally along the rail to extend along the rail.

Preferably, the rail has a dove-tailed profile.

Preferably, the enclosure farther comprises one or more attachments that have an internal elongate recess having a profile that complements the profile of the rail.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure for use in harvesting of honey, the enclosure comprising: a base, COMS ID No: ARCS-i 82449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:24 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MRO ENT1h1/4 MORCOM PERNAT U011/045 00 8 c-I one or more boxes that have an open top and an open bottom, the lowermost box being positioned one the base, and a lid that is positioned on the open top of the uppermost box, wherein each of the boxes and lid is provided with one or more elongate ribs that project downwardly from a lower surface of the respective box and lid, and each of the base and boxes is provided with one or recessed sections on an upper surface for receiving a respective elongate rib, wherein each of the elongate ribs can cooperate with a recessed section to prevent relative lateral movement of the respective 0 lid or 'box wit respect to the corresponding box or base in a direction that is o0 10 perpendicular to the elongate direction of the respective rib.

In another aspect; the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure for use in transporting a colony of bees, the enclosure comprising: a base, one or more boxes that have an open top and an open bottom, the lowermost box being positioned on the base, and a lid that is positioned on the uppermost box, wherein the enclosure provides a closed environment within the enclosure, such that bees, liquid and particulate matter is substantially prevented from entering or exiting the enclosure.

I another aspect, the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure for use in harvesting of honey, the enclosure comprising: a base, one or more boxes that have an open top and an open bottom, the lowermost box being positioned on the base, and a lid that is positioned on the uppermost box, wherein each of the base and the lid are provided with recessed sections On two opposing peripheral edges, the recessed sections for locating a strapping device to embrace the enclosure.

Preferably, each of the recessed sections are located centrally along the respective peripheral edge.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 3008 03/11 11:24 FAX +81 3 9543 1711 MORCOM PERNAT Q012/045 009 Preferably, each of the recessed sections is in the form of a chamfered section having a greater radius than the adjacent portions of the respective peripheral edge.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure for use in harvesting of honey, the enclosure comprising: one or more boxes for supporting panels on which bees can build honeycomb, each of the boxes being provided with a machine readable identifier that is embedded ci within the walls of the box.

00 o 0 Preferably, the bee hive enclosure further comprises a lid that can be located on the uppermost box, the lid being provided with a machine readable identifier that is embedded within the lid- Preferably, the bee hive enclosure further comprises a base that supports the lowermost box, the base being provided with a machine readably identifier that is embedded within the base.

Preferably, each machine readable identifier is a microchip.

in another aspect, the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure for use in harvesting of honey, the. enclosure comprising one or more boxes and a lid that is supported on the uppermost box, each of the boxes and lid being formed of a plastics material having internal microscopic bubbles dispersed through the material.

Preferably, the plastic material also has closed cells of containing an insulating gas formed within the plastics material.

Preferably, the enclosure fiuther comprises a base on which the lowermost box is supported, the base being formed of a plastics material having closed cells formed within the material.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:24 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT IA013/045 00 0 Preferably, the plastics material is a food grade material. Preferably, the plastics material is stable when exposed to ultra-violet light.

In one embodiment, the plastics material is polypropylene.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a component part of a bee hive enclosure, comprising the steps of: providing a mould for the component part of the enclosure; ci supplying a plastics material and a chemical blowing agent to the moulding; 00 oto forning the component part in the plastics material such that internal 0 microscopic bubbles being dispersed throughout the plastics material.

Preferably, the method fulrther comprises supplying an insulating gas into the mould such that closed cells of insulating gas are formed within the plastics material. More preferably, the insulating gas is co-injected with the plastics material.

Preferably, the insulating gas is nitrogen or carbon dioxide.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a bee hive enclosure defining a hive cavity within which bees can establish a hive, the enclosure comprising: a side wall having a tunnel that extends between the hive cavity and the environment surrounding the enclosure such that bees can enter/exit the enclosure through the tunnel, wherein the tunnels is at least 50mm long.

Preferably, the tunnel is at least 75mm long.

Brief Description of the Drawings In order that the invention may be more easily understood, embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:24 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT lZi014/045 0 (N Figure 1 is an axonometric view of a bee hive enclosure, incorporating a Ct spacer member in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;, Figure 2 is an axonometric view of the spacer member shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 is an exploded view of the bee hive enclosure shown in Figure 1; Figure 4 is an exploded view of a bee hive enclosure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a partially exploded view of the bee hive enclosure of Figure 4, showing the base and breeder box assembled; (N Figure 6 is a partially exploded view of the bee hive enclosure of Figure 4, 00 showing the base, and breeder and honey boxes assembled; Figure 7 is a partially exploded view of the bee hive enclosure of Figure 4, showing the base, breeder and honey boxes, and spacer member assembled; Figure 8 is an axonometric view of the assembled bee hive enclosure of Figure 4; Figure 9 is a longitudinal, vertical cross section view of a bee hive base in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 is a partial longitudinal, vertical cross section view of two bee hive enclosures in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 11 is a view of a base of a first bee hive enclosure and a lid of a second bee hive enclosure, both in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, indicating stacing of the base and lid; Figure 12 is a view of a transfer incorporating an identification pattern, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13a is a schematic view of an identification pattern for use with a bee hive enclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13b is a schematic view of an identification pattern for use with a bee hive enclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13c, is a schematic view of an identification pattern for use with a bee hive enclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13d is a schematic view of an identification pattern for use with a bee hive enclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13e is a schematic view of an identification pattern for use with a bee hive enclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:25 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT Z0j15/045 00 12 Cl Figure 1 3f is a schematic view of an identification pattern for use with a bee Ct hive enclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14 is an end view of a box for use in a bee hive enclosure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15 is a partial cross section view of the box of Figure 14, as viewed along the line B-B; Figure 16 is an axonometric view of the bee hive enclosure of Figure 8, which is provided with a strapping, in accordance with an embodiment of the present ci invention; o0 10 Figure 17 is an axonoinetric view of a transportation bee hive enclosure in 0 accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 18 is a partial view of a base of a bee hive enclosure showing the opening in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 19 is a partial view of a base of a bee hive enclosure of figure 18, provided with an opening attachment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 20 is an axonometric view of an opening attachment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 21 is an axonometric view of an opening attachment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 22 is an enlarged view showing detail A in Figure 4.

Detailed Description Figure 1 shows a bee hive enclosure 10, which is provided with as pacer member 12 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the spacer member 12 assists the bees in maintaining optimal humidity and temperature levels within the enclosure 10. The enclosure 10 also includes a box 14, which defines a hive cavity within which a bee colony establishes its hive. The spacer member 12 has a lower surface that is supported on the walls of the box 14 and above the panels (not shown) on which the bees build their honeycomb. The enclosure 10 further includes a lid 16, which is supported on the top of the spacer member 12, such that an upper cavity is defined between an upper surface of the spacer member 12 and the lid 16.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:25 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MRO ENTfj~/4 MORCOM PERNAT Z016/045 00 13 ct The box and lid 16 can be of conventional wooden construction, such as the Langstroth hive.

The box 14 is provided with an opening 18 through which bees enter and exit the hive. The opening 18 is dimensioned such that bees can pass through with ease.

However, as predators, such as mice and wax moths, will attempt to invade the hive to steal honey and wax, the opening 18 is as small as practical.

0 The spacer member 12 is shown in further detail in Figure 2. A narrow opening 20 is 0 provided centrally within the spacer member 12. A screen 22 is provided with the narrow opening 20 to prevent bees, and theft predators, entering and exiting the hive through the narrow opening 20. An upper surface 24 of the spacer member 12 extends downwardly and outwardly from the narrow opening For ease of understanding, a portion of the screen 22 is shown in Figure 2 within the narrow opening 20. In addition, the entire screen 22 is shown in an elevated position above the narrow opening The spacer member 12 is provided with a plurality of projections 26 that extend upwardly from the upper surface 24. The projections 26 form a castellated edge, which surrounds the upper surface 24. When a ld16 is placed on the spacer member 12, the lid 16 is supported on upper portions of the projections 26. A series of openings are formed between the spacer member 12 and the lid 16.

When a colony of bees establishes a hive within the enclosure 10, warm air and moisture can rise from the hive cavity through the narrow opening 20 into the upper cavity and can exit the enclosure 10. Condensation may form on the internal, lower surface of the lid 16. A substantial portion of such condensation will drip onto the upper surface 24 of the spacer member 12. Due to the shape of the upper surface 24, such condensation will exit the enclosure through the openings between the projections 26. Similarly, warm air can escape the upper cavity between the projections 26.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:25 FIX -i61 3 9543 2711 MRCMPNAIj01/4 MORCOM PERNAT [a 017/045 00 14 CtFigure 3 shows an exploded view of the enclosure 10 of Figure 1. Internal surfae Of the box 14 can be seen, and a portion of a panel 28 is shown to indicate the position a panel 28 would be in use of the enclosure Figures 4 to 8 show a bee hive enclosure 1 10 in accordance with an embodiment of __the present invention. The enclosure 110 includes a base 1 11, two boxes 1 14a, 1 14b, o a spacer member 112 and a lid 116. The spacer member 112 is identical to that Ci shown in Figure 2. In Figures 4 to 8, features of the spacer member 112 that 00 correspond to features of the spacer member 12 have the same reference numerals 0 incremented by 100.

Each of the boxes 1 14a, 1 14b has an open top and bottom. Accordingly, bees can generally move freely between the base -111 and the boxes 114a, 114b (hereinafter referred to collectively as "boxes 1 14").

Traditionally, the lowermost box in a bee hive enclosure is known as the "breeder box", within which the queen bee is kept. Furthermore, the remaining upper boxes in the same bee hive enclosure are traditionally known as the "honey" boxes. In such an enclosure, the queen bee is prevented from moving from the breeder box into the honey box (or boxes) by a screen. While not shown, it will be appreciated that the enclosure 110 may be provided wit a screen of this type between the boxes 1 14a, 1 I14b. It will also be appreciated that the enclosure 110 may be provided with one or more boxes 114, as required.

Each of the boxes 114 can be provided with panels 28 on which the bees build honeycomb. The panels 28 may be constructed in accordance wit the panel described in Australian Patent Application No. 2003200557, which is filed in the name of the present inventor.

As indicated in detail A Figure 4, each box 114 may be provided with an identifier 132, which in this embodiment is a microchip. Furthermore, 1like identifiers can also be provided in the base 111, the spacer member 112 and/or the lid 114.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:25 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT Q~018/045 00 The identifier 132 allows a beekeeper to keep a record of the boxes used in particular hives such that the same boxes can be used together in a hive. The use of identifiers 132 can also assist the beekeeper in keeping individual bee colonies in an enclosure constructed from the base 1 11, boxes 114, spacer member 112 and/or lid 116 the respective colony has been previously resident in. Consistency in the enclosure 110 used for a respective colony can assist in minimizing transfer of disease between colonies. In addition, the identifier 132 can be used by beekeepers to prove 0 ownership of the components of enclosures.

00 o 0 In the embodiment in which the identifier 132 is a microchip, the microchip may be formed withiin the wall of the respective base 1ll, box 114, spacer member 112 or lid 116.

The base 111 is provided with an opening, which in this embodiment is in the form of a tunnel 118, through which the bees can enter and exit the enclosure 110. The internal bottom surface 130 is sloped downwardly towards the tunnel 118.

Furthermore, the portion of the bottom surface 130 that is immediately adjacent the tunnel 118 is level with the lower edge of the tunnel 118. Thus, any moisture, such as condensation, that collects on the bottom surface 130 is directed out of the enclosure 110 through the tunnel 118.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 to 8, the tunnel 18 is approximately 75mmn in length. However, in alternative embodiments, the tunnel could be at least long. The tunnel 118 assists the bee colony in defending their hive from attack by predators. The tunnel 11 Sis relatively small when compared with the hive cavity within the enclosure 110. Accordingly, bees have a higher chance of identifying a predator attempting to invade the hive as they pass through the tunnel 118.

As shown in Figures 4 to 8, each of the base Ill and boxes 114 are provided with a locking device 134 to inhibit the enclosure 110 being accidentally disassembled. In this embodiment, each locking device 134 is in the form of a piece of wire that is attached at one end to an end of the respective base I111 or box 114 adjacent the upper COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:25 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MRO ENTfj1/4 MORCOM PERNAT U019/045 00 16 (N edge. The wire is bent elastically over a hook, or similar retaining member, provided Ct on the lower edge of the adjacent box 114 or spacer member 112. Subsequently, the wire is further bent elastically beneath a hook or similar retaining member, provided on the upper edge of the respective base 111 or box 114. The elastic bending of the piece of wire provides a clamping force to inhibit accidental disassembly.

Figure 9 shows an enclosure 210 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The enclosure 210 is substantially similar to the embodiment 110 shown (N in Figure 4 to 8, with the exception that the enclosure 210 has a single box 214. In 00 the embodiment shown in Figure 9, features of the spacer member 210 that 0 correspond to features of the spacer member 110 have the same reference numeral incremented by 100.

As can be seen in Figure 9, the lid 216 is provided with elongate ribs 23 6a that extend downwardly from a lower edge of the lid 216. In addition, upper edges of the spacer member 212 are provided with recesses 238a. Each recess 238a receives one of the elongate ribs 236a, Similarly, the spacer member 212 is provided with elongate ribs 236b that extend downwardly from a lower edge of the spacer member 212. In addition, upper edges of the box 214 are provided with recesses 238b. Bach recess 238b receives one of the elongate ribs 236b.

Furthermore the box 214 is provided with elongate ribs 236c that extend downwardly from a lower edge of the box 214. In addition, upper edges of the base 211 are provided with recesses 238c. Each recess 238c receives one of the elongate ribs 236c.

The ribs 236a, 236b, 236c. and recesses 238a, 238b, 238c co-operate to prevent lateral movement in a direction perpendicular to the respective elongate ribs 236a, 236b, 236c, of the box 214, spacer member 212 or lid 216 relative the respective base 211, box 214 or spacer member 212.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:26 FAX -i61 3 9543 2711 MRO ENTIj2/4 MORCOM PERNAT R020/045 00 17 (N As will be observed from Figure 9, the recess 238b in the box 214 is sufficiently deep Ct to support the support rail 29 of a panel 28 on an internal shoulder 240 such that the support rail 29 of the frame 28 is spaced from the ribs 236a of the spacer member 212. The space is sufficiently large that the panel 28 will not become attached to the spacer member 212, yet is sufficiently small to discourage bees from attempting to build honeycomb in the space.

The base 211 includes an elongate rail 242 through which the tunnel 218 passes. The (N elongate rail 242 is shown in cross section in Figure 9. The elongzate rail 242 is 00 oio provided with an attachment 244. The function and form of the elongate rail 242 and 0 attachment 244 are discussed in further detail in connection with Figures 18 to 21.

The upper surface 246 of the lid 216 is provided with a raised section 248. The lower surface 250 of the base 211 is provided wit a recessed section 252 of complementary shape to the raised section 248. Details of the raised section 248 and recessed section 252 arc shown in Figure 9, 10 and 11.

In plan view, the raised section 248 has the form of an irregular hexagon, in which two long edges 254 are arranged to be coincident wit the long edges of the lid 216.

Two pairs 256 of adjacent edges of the irregular hexagon are arranged to extend between the long edges of the lid 216. Within these pairs 256 of adjacent edges, the internal angle approaches 1800, and is preferably approximately 750* The edges in each pair 256 are tapered such that width of the raised section 248 in a horizontal plane decreases in a direction away from the hive cavity defined by the enclosure 210. Similarly, the width of the recessed section 252 in a horizontal plane decreases in a direction towards the hive cavity defined by the enclosure 210.

As the raised section 248 and recessed section 252 are of complementary shape, a base 211 can be received on a lid 216. The irregular hexagon shapes of the raised section 248 and recessed section 252 ensure that a base 211 that is placed on a lid 216 is laterally constrained. Accordingly, bee hive enclosures 110 and/or bee hive COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:26 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MRCMP NAIj02/4 MORCOM PERNAT [a 021/045 00 18 (N enclosures 210 can be stacked during transport, as indicated in Figure 10, in a more Ct stable arrangement when compared with prior art bee hive enclosures.

Figure 12 illustrates a transfer 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The transfer 300 includes an identification indicia, which in this embodiment is an alphanumeric identifier 302, and pattern 304. The transfer 300 can be applied to a bee hive enclosure near the opening through which the bees enter and exit. In a commercial apiary, in which there may be several hundred bee hive (N enclosures, each with an individual colony. In such a commercial apiary, each 00 enclosure can be provided with a transfer 300 that bears a unique pattern 304.

It is known that bees are able to recognize relatively complex and intricate patterns.

As worker bees return to their hive after foraging for nectar they will be able to see the pattern 304 as they approach the opening of a hive. They will readily be able to identify whether they are approaching their own hive, or that of a foreign colony. As each enclosure within an apiary is provided with a transfer 300 bearing a unique pattern, the bees have an increased chance of locating the correct enclosure. By displaying a unique pattern 304 on each enclosure, the problem of "bee drift" can be minimized.

The transfer 300 can have adhesive 306 applied to the backing surface to facilitate application to a bee hive enclosure. In addition, the transfer 300 can be provided with a release paper 308 that protects the adhesive 306 prior to application to a bee hive enclosure.

Figures 13a to 13f give further examples of patterns that can readily be identified by bees, and which may be suitable for the purpose outlined previously.

The alphanumeric identifier 302 allows a beekeeper to quickly identify the pattern 304 that has been applied to an enclosure. Preferably, each pattern 304 is associated with a unique alphanumeric identifier 302.

COMS ID No:ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:26 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT Q~i022/045 00 19 I n this embodiment, the pattern 304 is rotationally symmetrical. However, it is believed that other forms of patterns may be suitable, such as repeated rows of alternating colours within an array, repeated sequences of lines, etc. Furthenmore, it will be appreciated that the identification indicia may be any suitable marking, such as, for example, barcodes, iC-lID circuit or microchips.

Figure 14 shows an end view of a box 414 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The box 414 can be used in any one of the bee hive enclosures ci 110, 210, 310 described previously. The box includes an elongate rib 436 that 00 o1i extends downwardly from a lower edge of the box 414. The box 414 may be 0 moulded in a plastics material. Each end of the box 414 is provided with a recessed handle portion 460, as shown in Figure 15. The handle portion 460 allows a person to easily lift the box 414 in a stable manner.

Figure 16 shows the bee hive enclosure 1 10 with a strapping 162 provided, which embraces the lid 116, boxes 114 and base 1 11. The strapping 162 can be applied to the enclosure 110 prior to transporting the enclosure 110, and thus the hive, to a processing facility. The strapping 162 assists in preventing the enclosure 110 from becoming inadvertently disassembled during transport- The strapping 162 is provided wit a tensioning buckle 163, which may be, for example, an "Em-lock" type buckle.

As shown in Figures 4 to 8, and 16, each of the lower side edges of the base Ill is provided with a chamfered portion 164 for receiving the strapping 162. Similarly, each of the upper, side edges of the lid 116 is also provided with a chamfered portion 166 for receiving the strapping 162. The chamifered portions 164, 166 have a radius that is larger than the radius of the corresponding edge of the lid 116, or base 1 11.

The chamifered portions 164, 166 assist in locating the strapping 162, and also preventing the strapping 162 from being accidentally repositioned.

The enclosure 2 10 shown in Figures 9 to 11I is also provided with chamnfered portions on the respective base 211 and lid 216.

COMS ID No: ARCS-i 82449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:26 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT R~J023/045 00 0 Figure 17 shows a bee hive enclosure 510 in accordance with an ebodiment that is Particularly suitable for use in transporting a bee hive. The enclosure 510 includes a filly enclosed base 511. Two boxes 514a, 51l4b are supported above the base 511, with the lower box 514a resting on the base 511. A lid 516 is supported on the upper box 514b.

As the base 511 is fully enclosed, the possibility of honey or other matter being discharged from the enclosure 5 10 during transport is substantially eliminated.

00 10 Each of the lower, side edges of the base 511 is provided with a chamafered portion o 564 for receiving the strapping 562. Similarly, each of the upper, side edges of the lid 516 is also provided with a chamnfered portion 566 for receiving the strapping 562.

The chamnfered portions 564, 566 assist in locating the strapping 562, and also preventing the strapping 562 from being accidentally repositioned.

The strapping 562 is tensioned using a buckle 563, such as an "Em-lock" type buckle.

The upper surface of the lid 516 is provided with a raised section, which is of similar shape to the raised section 248 of the lid 216 shown in Figures 9 to 11. Similarly, the lower surface of the base 511 is provided with a recessed section of complementary shape to the raised section. The shape of the recessed section of the base 511 is similar to the recessed section 252 of the base 211 shown in Figures 9 to 11.- Figures 18 and 19 show a partial cross section of a base 611 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The base 611 is provided with a tunnel 618 through which bees can enter or exit the hive. An elongate rail 642 extends transversely across the end face of the base 611.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 18, the rail 642 has a dove-tail profile when viewed in cross section. The rail 642 is shaped to receive an attachment 700 (not shown in Figure 18) that has an elongate recess 701, which has a cross section with complementary dove-tail profile. Thus, the attachment 700 can be slid along the rail COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:27 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT QI024/045 00 21 o 642 in the longitudinal direction, but is not able to be removed by a pulling force that is perpendicular to the end face of the base 611.

The attachment 700' shown in Figure 20 also provides a screen that can be positioned across the tunnel. The attachment 700' has plurality of apertures 702' through which bees cannot pass, and an elongate recess 701', which has a cross section with complementary dove-tail profile.

o The attachment 700' can be installed on an enclosure while the enclosure is being 00 10 transported from one honey field to another. The attachment 700' allows air to flow o into the enclosure whilst bees are unable to enter or exit the enclosure. Thus, the bee colony is able to control the temperature and/or humidity within the hive during transport.

1s Figure 21 shows an attachment 710 in accordance with another embodiment. The attachment 710 has plurality of slots 712 that are too narrow for bees to pass through.

The attachment 710 can also be used to constrain bees within the hive as the enclosure is moved between honey fields.

Figure 22 is an enlarged view of detail A in Figure 4, showing the structure of material 800 that can be used in embodiments of the present invention- The material 800 is a plastic material that is stable under ultra-violet light, is food grade, has good insulating properties and can be recycled. The material 800 can conveniently be used in the manufacture of the components of enclosures (such as bases, boxes, spacer members and/or lids) of embodiments of the present invention, as it can readily be moulded.

During manufacture of such components, a chemical blowing agent is introduced with a plastics material into a mould. The chemical blowing agent creates microscopic bubbles (which are indicated in Figure 22 by cross hatching 804). The microscopic bubbles 804 are dispersed throughout the material 800.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:27 FAX ±61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT Q~025/045 00 22 oIn addition, during the manufacture of components of a bee hive enclosure, an insulating gas is co-injected with the plastics material and the chemical blowing agent. The injection of the gas is controlled such that macroscopic bubbles, or closed cells 802, of the insulating gas are entrained within the material 800 once the respective component is formed. The closed cells 802 of insulating gas the microscopic bubbles 804 both inhibit heat transfer by conduction through the material 800, and thus provide increased insulation for the enclosure.

o The injection of the insulating gas is controlled such that the closed cells 802 are 00 10 spaced from the external surfaces of the material 800.

The insulating gas can be any gas that is inert with respect to the plastics material. In one embodiment, the material 800 can be a foamed polypropylene. In such an embodiment, the insulating gas may be, for example, nitrogen or carbon dioxide.

An identifier 132, which can be a microchip, can be inserted into the walls of components of enclosures during manufacture of the respective component.

As the material 800 is food grade, any honey that comes into contact with internal surfaces of the enclosure can be collected and processed without compromising the quality of the honey or its food grade status.

It will be understood to persons skilled in the art of the invention that many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

For example, in some embodiments, the recessed section on the base can be provided with an additional recessed section within which the buckle of a strapping can be received. Accordingly, the buckle can be positioned on top of the enclosure and enclosures can be vertically stacked, as previously described.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:27 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT Z 026/045 00 23 0 implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in inclusive sense, ie. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to Spreclude the presences or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11

Claims (20)

1. A bee hive enclosure comprising, a base; a wall extending upwardly from the base, surrounding a hive cavity for bees; a lid; and an access opening through which bees can enter or exit the enclosure, wherein the bee hive enclosure includes moisture/humidity control means 0 chosen from at least one of, 0010 a sloping base arranged to direct liquid accumulating on the base to flow through an outlet, and an upper cavity defined between a spacer member and the lid when it is mounted on the spacer member, the upper cavity being in fluid communication with the interior cavity of the bee hive enclosure through a breathing opening in the spacer and ventilation means associated with the upper cavity and the external environment whereby moist air may rise from the bee hive enclosure through the upper cavity and out of the ventilation means.

2. A bee hive enclosure according to claim I wherein the moisture/humidity control means comprises the sloping base and the outlet comprises the access opening.

3. A bee hive enclosure according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the moisture/humidity control means comprise the ventilation cavity and the spacer member comprises, a lower surface that can be supported on the walls; an opposing upper surface; and a plurality of projections that extend upwardly from the upper surface on which the lid can be supported such that the ventilation cavity is defined between the upper surface and the lid; and wherein warm air and moisture can move from the hive cavity into the ventilation cavity and exit the enclosure between the projections. COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:27 FAX 61 3 9543 2711 MRO ENTfj~/~ MORCOM PERNAT R028/045 0c'

04. A bee hive enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims wherein one of the lid and the base is provided with an outwardly projecting raised section, and the other of the base and the lid is provided with a recessed section that is of complementary shape to the raised section, and wherein the base of the enclosure can be placed on the lid of another like enclosure and relative lateral movement of the two enclosures is restricted. A bee hive enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims having a 0 transfer comprising a surface bearing a pattern that can be distinguished by a bee. 00 o6. A group of bee hive enclosures according to claim 5 wherein each bee hive enclosure transfer has a different pattern.

7. A bee hive enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the access opening is provided in the wall, and an elongate rail that extends along the wall, the opening extending through the rail, wherein the rail is profiled such that an attachment can be slid longitudinally along the rail.

8. A bee hive enclosure 'according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wall and lid are provided with one or more elongate ribs that project downwardly from a lower surface of the respective wall and lid, and each of the base and wall is provided with one or more recessed sections on an upper surface for receiving a respective elongate rib, wherein each of the elongate ribs can co-operate with a recessed section to prevent relative lateral movement of the respective lid or wall with respect to the corresponding wall or base in a direction that is perpendicular to the elongate direction of the respective rib.

9. A bee hive enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims comprising, a machine readable identifier that is embedded within the wall. COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:28 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MRCMPNAIi02/4 MORCOM PERNAT Q029/045 00 26

010. A spacer member for use in a bee hive enclosure having a box with walls and an open top and defining a hive cavity within wbich bees can build a hive, and a lid for protecting the hive from weather, the spacer member comprising, a lower surface that can be supported on the walls of the box;, an opposing upper surface; a plurality of projections that extend upwardly from the upper surface on which the lid can be supported such that an upper cavity is defined between the upper surface and the lid; and an opening such that the hive cavity and the upper cavity are in fluid 00 10 communication, o wherein warm air and moisture can move from the hive cavity into the upper cavity and exit the enclosure between. the projections.

11. A spacer member according to claim 10 wherein the projections are provided at the peripheral edge of the spacer member.

12. A spacer member according to claim 10 or claim 11 wherein the projections form a castellated edge on the upper surface of the spacer member.

13. A spacer member according to any one of claims 10 to 12 wherein the opening is disposed centrally of the spacer member.

14. A spacer member according to any one of claims 10 to 13 wherein the upper surface of the spacer member is sloped downwardly and outwardly from the opening- A spacer member according to any one of claims 10 tol14 wherein a screen is provided across the opening to prevent bees and/or predators passing through the opening-

16. A method of manufacturing a component part of a bee hive enclosure, comprising the steps of: providing a mould for the component part of the enclosure; supplying a plastics material anad a chemical blowing agent to the mould; and COMS ID No: ARQ.S-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11 2008 03/11 11:28 FAX +61 3 9543 2711 MORCOM PERNAT Q~030/045 00 27 oforming the component part in the plastics material such that internal microscopic bubbles are created by the chemical blowing agent, the microscopic bubbles being dispersed throughout the plastics material.

17. A method according to claim 16 further comprising supplying an insulating gas into the mould such that closed cells of insulating gas are formed within the plastics material. o18. A method according to claim 17 wherein the insulating gas is co-injected with 00 10 the plastics material.

19. A method according to claim 17 or claim 18 wherein the insulating gas is nitrogen or carbon.

20. A transfer for application to a bee hive enclosure, the transfer comprising a surface bearing a pattern that can be distinguished by a bee.

21. A transfer according to claim 20 wherein the pattern is a rotationally symmetrical pattern.

22. A transfer according to claim 20 or claim 21 wherein the transfer comprises an identification indicia that can be read by a human or a human operated machine.

23. A bee hive enclosure comprising a pattern, which can be distinguished by a bee, on an external surface of the enclosure such that bees can identify their hive by recognition of the pattern.

24. A bee hive enclosure according to claim 23 wherein the pattern is located adjacent an opening in the enclosure through which bees can enter/exit the enclosure. Dated this 11Ith day of March 2008 Seamus Terrence Hasson by his patent attorneys Morcom Pemnat COMS ID No: ARCS-182449 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:37 Date 2008-03-11