WO2019149998A1 - Beeswax foundation and beekeeping structure - Google Patents

Beeswax foundation and beekeeping structure Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019149998A1
WO2019149998A1 PCT/FI2019/050062 FI2019050062W WO2019149998A1 WO 2019149998 A1 WO2019149998 A1 WO 2019149998A1 FI 2019050062 W FI2019050062 W FI 2019050062W WO 2019149998 A1 WO2019149998 A1 WO 2019149998A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
foundation
base plate
bottom edge
frame part
beeswax
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/FI2019/050062
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Terho ERKINTALO
Ukri TAKALA
Original Assignee
Umotec Oy
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Umotec Oy filed Critical Umotec Oy
Publication of WO2019149998A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019149998A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; CARE OF BIRDS, FISHES, INSECTS; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K47/00—Beehives
    • A01K47/02—Construction or arrangement of frames for honeycombs
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; CARE OF BIRDS, FISHES, INSECTS; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K47/00—Beehives
    • A01K47/04—Artificial honeycombs

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a beeswax foundation to be used in a beehive, and more particularly to a beeswax foundation according to preamble of claim 1.
  • the present invention further relates to a beekeeping structure to be used in a beehive, and more particularly to a beekeeping structure according to preamble of claim 8.
  • the present invention further relates to a method for constructing a beekeeping structure to be used in a beehive, and more particularly to a method for constructing a beekeeping structure according to preamble of claim 14.
  • Beekeeping is typically carried out in beehives comprising a stack of boxes with internal hanging foundation frames.
  • the stacked boxes usually have between eight and ten foundation frames in each box, and the boxes are stacked one on top of another.
  • the foundation frames are usually provided with a beeswax foundation having a base plate onto which bees draw out a beeswax honeycomb, which is used by the bees to store honey. Therefore, the beeswax foundation is supported to the foundation frame and the foundation frame is supported to the box of the beehive.
  • the foundation frames are conventionally peripheral frames having a top frame part, bottom frame part and side frame parts extending between the top and bottom frame parts such that a rectangular and peripheral foundation frame is formed.
  • the beeswax foundation is arranged inside the peripheral foundation frame and supported to the peripheral foundation frame with wires extending between the side frame parts or the top and bottom frame parts such that the beeswax foundation is inside the foundation frame.
  • Each wire must be manually set to the foundation frame for supporting the beeswax foundation.
  • the foundation frames together with the beeswax foundations are removed from the beehive.
  • Honey is then extracted from the beeswax foundations in the foundation frames with an extractor.
  • the used beeswax foundation must be removed from the foundation frame and also the wires must be removed from the foundation frame.
  • the foundation frame is cleaned to be used again by installing a new beeswax foundation inside the foundation frame and setting new wires. Installing a new beeswax foundation to the foundation frame is manual work and takes 10 to 15 minutes time per foundation frame. Accordingly, it is very time consuming and limits efficiency in beekeeping.
  • the bees, the bee colony, in a beehive need to be fed in order to keep the bee colonies alive. For instance, during a winter period the bees stay in their nest and need feeding.
  • the bees are often fed with sucrose or invert sugar which is a mixture of glucose and fructose.
  • the invert sugar is provided in a liquid form and positioned in a container on a top of the beehive.
  • the feeding has to start immediately after harvesting the honey from the beehive, and the feeding container has to be refilled again once or twice during the feeding season. Accordingly, bee colony feeding is very time consuming and limits efficiency in beekeeping.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide a beeswax foundation and a beekeeping structure and a method for constructing a beekeeping structure so as to solve or at least alleviate the prior art disadvantages.
  • the objects of the invention are achieved by a beeswax foundation which is characterized by what is stated in claim 1.
  • the objects of the present invention are also achieved by a beekeeping structure which is characterized by what is stated in claim 8.
  • the objects of the present invention are also achieved by a method for constructing a beekeeping structure which is characterized by what is stated in claim 14.
  • the invention is based on the idea of providing a beeswax foundation for a foundation frame of a beehive.
  • the beeswax foundation comprises a base plate having a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge, and a second side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge.
  • the beeswax foundation comprises a bottom edge flange provided to the bottom edge of the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange extends along the bottom edge of the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange makes the beeswax foundation rigid and provides necessary support for the beeswax foundation such that it may be a self-supporting structure.
  • the bottom edge flange may be attached to the bottom edge of the base plate.
  • the attachment may be provided with mechanical fasteners, such as rivets, or with adhesive material or by welding or some other bonding method.
  • the bottom edge flange may be an integral part of the bottom edge of the base plate or an integral part of the base plate. Term integral means that the bottom edge flange may not be removed from the bottom edge or from base plate without breaking or damaging the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange may also be formed from same material as the base plate and provided by forming the base plate at the bottom edge. This means that the bottom edge flange is formed by forming the base plate or the material of the base plate and the bottom edge flange is formed from the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange is a fixed or integral part of the beeswax foundation which enables providing the structural characteristics to beeswax foundation. Further, it means that the bottom edge flange is not intended to be removed or detached from the beeswax foundation during the lifetime of the beeswax foundation.
  • the bottom edge flange may be provided such that it extends transversely or perpendicularly from the bottom edge of the base plate or from the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange may extend transversely or perpendicularly in one direction from the bottom edge of the base plate or from the base plate. This means that the bottom edge flange forms an angle in relation to the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange may extend transversely or perpendicularly in opposite directions from the bottom edge of the base plate or from the base plate. This means that the bottom edge flange extends in two directions from the bottom edge in relation to the base plate. These two directions may be parallel or at an angle relative to each other.
  • the base plate has a plate surface, or two plate surfaces on opposite sides of the plate, and the directions transversely and perpendicularly mean directions relative to the plate surface(s).
  • the base plate may be made of metal sheet, such as steel or aluminium, or of plastic sheet or synthetic material, such as some fibrous material.
  • the material of the base plate is material which may be molded, bent, press shaped or worked in some other manner for providing the bottom edge flange.
  • the base plate is made of magnetic stainless steel.
  • magnetic stainless steel comprise martensitic, ferritic, duplex or precipitation hardening stainless steels.
  • Thickness of a base plate made of stainless steel may be 0.1 - 0.6 mm, or 0.2 - 0.5 mm, or preferably 0.25 - 0.4 mm. In one embodiment, the thickness of the base plate made of stainless steel may be 0.3 mm.
  • the bottom edge flange may extend along the whole length of the bottom edge between the first and second side edges of the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange is continuous between the first and second side edges of the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange may extend along part of the length of the bottom edge between the first and second side edges of the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange may be provided for example only to a central portion of the bottom edge between the first and second side edges of the base plate.
  • the bottom edge of the base plate may be provided with two or more separate bottom edge flanges spaced apart from each other along the bottom edge of the base plate. In that case, there may be for example separate bottom edge flanges extending a predetermined distance along the bottom edge from the first and second side edges, and possibly one or more separate bottom edge flanges in the central portion of the bottom edge.
  • the base plate may comprise one or more reinforcements.
  • the base plate may comprise one or more longitudinal reinforcements extending along plate surface(s).
  • the base plate may comprise one or more first longitudinal reinforcements extending parallel to the top and bottom edges of the base plate and one or more second reinforcements extending parallel to the first and second side edges of the base plate.
  • the reinforcements provide additional rigidity to the beeswax foundation and further enable forming a self-supporting structure.
  • the one or more reinforcements may be provided by forming the base plate, for example by press forming, embossing, die cutting or the like shaping or forming method.
  • the one or more reinforcements may be attached to the base plate or on the base plate.
  • the reinforcements may be reinforcement ribs or the like which may be glued, welded or attached in another known manner to or on the base plate.
  • the present invention further relates to a beekeeping structure in a beehive.
  • the beekeeping structure comprises a beeswax foundation and a foundation frame to which the beeswax foundation may be or is installed.
  • the beekeeping structure comprises a foundation frame consisting of a top frame part, a first side frame part and a second side frame part.
  • the first and second side frame parts extend from the top frame part such that the top frame part forms together with the first and second side frame parts a U-shaped foundation frame.
  • the top frame part, the first side frame part and the second side frame part may be separate parts attached to each other or, alternatively, two of them or all of them may be provided as a single part.
  • the top frame part and the first and second side frame parts may be longitudinal elements or bars.
  • the foundation frame may further comprise an attachment mechanism arranged to removably attach the beeswax foundation to the foundation frame between the first and second side frame parts.
  • the attachment mechanism is provided to the foundation frame for locking or securing the beeswax foundation to the foundation frame.
  • the attachment mechanism may comprise at least one first attachment mechanism provided to the first side frame part and at least one second attachment mechanism provided to the second side frame part.
  • the attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment mechanism provided to first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part and at least one second attachment mechanism provided to second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part.
  • Term distal end means the end of the first or second side frame part which is away from the top frame part. Further, the term distal end covers the end face and the vicinity of the end of the first and second side frame parts away from the top frame part.
  • the attachment mechanism may comprise at least one mechanical joint arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism.
  • the attachment mechanism may comprise at least one mortise-and-tenon joint arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism.
  • the attachment mechanism may comprise at least one latch joint arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism.
  • the mechanical and openable attachment mechanism allows the beeswax foundation to be installed easily into the foundation frame and locked or secured to the foundation frame.
  • the mechanical and openable attachment mechanism further allows a used beeswax foundation to be released and removed from the foundation frame easily.
  • Term openable means that the attachment mechanism may be set to a closed position in which the beeswax foundation is secured or locked to the foundation frame and to an open position in which the beeswax foundation is released from the foundation frame such that it may be installed to or removed from the foundation frame.
  • the beekeeping structure may further comprise a beeswax foundation arranged or installed to the U-shaped foundation frame.
  • the beeswax foundation may comprise a base plate having a bottom edge, a top edge, a first side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge, and a second side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge.
  • the beeswax foundation may be arranged to be removably attached to the foundation frame with the attachment mechanism. Accordingly, the beeswax foundation may be installed to the U-shaped foundation frame and secured or locked to the foundation frame with the attachment mechanism.
  • the beeswax foundation may comprise a bottom edge flange provided to the bottom edge of the base plate, the bottom edge flange extending along the bottom edge of the base plate.
  • the bottom edge flange may be arranged against the first and second side frame parts at the first and second distal ends of the first and second side frame parts, respectively, such that the bottom edge flange of the beeswax foundation forms a bottom frame for the foundation frame. Accordingly, the beeswax foundation and the bottom edge flange of the base plate of the beeswax foundation provide a structural part for the foundation frame such that the foundation frame becomes a peripheral frame with increased structural rigidity.
  • the first side frame part may comprise a first inner surface facing the inside, or toward the second side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame.
  • the first inner surface may be provided with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part.
  • the second side frame part may comprise a second inner surface facing the inside, or towards the first side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame.
  • the second inner surface may be provided with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part.
  • the first side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the first groove and the second side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the second groove such that the base plate extends between the first and second side frame parts.
  • the top frame part may be provided with a top groove on the bottom surface thereof.
  • the first side frame part may comprise a first inner surface facing the inside, or towards the second side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame.
  • the first inner surface may be provided with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part.
  • the second side frame part may comprise a second inner surface facing the inside, or towards the first side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame.
  • the second inner surface may be provided with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part.
  • the top frame part may comprise a top inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, meaning the bottom surface of the top frame part.
  • the top inner surface may be provided with a top groove extending along the top inner surface of the top frame part between the first and second side frame parts.
  • the first side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the first groove
  • the second side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the second groove
  • the top edge of the base plate may be arranged into the top groove of the top frame part such that the base plate extends from the top frame part between the first and second side frame parts.
  • the beekeeping structure may comprise a bee feeding layer.
  • the bee feeding layer is provided on the base plate.
  • the base plate comprises two plate surfaces on opposite sides of the base plate. One of the two plate surfaces or both of the plate surfaces comprise a first artificially provided layer of beeswax on it.
  • the artificially provided layer of beeswax comprises an artificially provided honeycomb made of beeswax on it.
  • the honeycomb comprises a plurality of honeycomb cells and the honeycomb cells comprise preferably hexagonal shape. At least part of the honeycomb cells comprises invert sugar inside the cell. At least part of openings of the honeycomb cells are covered with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax to retain the invert sugar inside the honeycomb cells.
  • the beekeeping structure is advantageous for feeding the bees.
  • the feeding layer is relatively heavy, and the beeswax foundation and the foundation frame need to adequately stiff and rigid to be able to carry the weight.
  • the beeswax foundation and the bottom edge flange of the base plate of the beeswax foundation provide a structural part for the foundation frame such that the foundation frame becomes a peripheral frame with increased structural rigidity.
  • the beekeeping structure comprises plate surfaces which are uncovered, the production of the bee feeding layer on to the beeswax foundation can be made efficiently and mechanically with only few manual working phases.
  • the beekeeping structure comprising a bee feeding layer reduces also local work at the beehive farm and maintenance during the feeding period. When honey is harvested from the beehive the beekeeping structures are removed from the beehive. Then, if the bee feeding is necessary, the beforehand prepared beekeeping structures comprising the bee feeding layer are installed to the beehives.
  • the present invention further relates to a method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive.
  • the method comprises providing a foundation frame consisting of a top frame part, a first side frame part and a second side frame part for the beekeeping structure, arranging the first and second side frame parts to extend from the top frame part such that the top frame part forms together with the first and second side frame parts a U-shaped foundation frame.
  • the method further comprises providing a beeswax foundation comprising a base plate having a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge extending between the bottom edge and the top edge, and a second side edge extending between the bottom edge and the top edge, and providing a bottom edge flange to the bottom edge of the base plate of the beeswax foundation, the bottom edge flange extending along the bottom edge of the base plate, and making the beeswax foundation rigid by providing the bottom edge flange as an integral part of the bottom edge of the base plate.
  • the method comprises arranging the beeswax foundation of the beekeeping structure to the U-shaped foundation frame, arranging the bottom edge flange against the first and second side frame parts at the first and second distal ends of the first and second side frame parts, respectively, such that the bottom edge flange of the beeswax foundation forms a bottom frame part for the foundation frame, and arranging an attachment mechanism of the foundation frame to removably attach a beeswax foundation to the foundation frame between the first and second side frame parts.
  • the first side frame part comprises a first inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame
  • the method comprises providing the first inner surface with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part
  • the second side frame part comprises a second inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, providing the second inner surface with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part
  • the first side frame part comprises a first inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, providing the first inner surface with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part
  • the second side frame part comprises a second inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, providing the second inner surface with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part
  • the top frame comprises
  • the method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive may comprise constructing a bee feeding layer to the beekeeping structure.
  • the constructing a bee feeding layer to the beekeeping structure comprises providing artificially a first layer of beeswax on at least one of the two plate surfaces of the base plate, providing artificially a honeycomb made of beeswax on the first layer of beeswax, the honeycomb comprising a plurality of honeycomb cells, filling at least part of the honeycomb cells with invert sugar, covering at least part of openings of the honeycomb cells with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax.
  • the method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive may comprise the invented beeswax foundation for a foundation frame of a beehive.
  • the beeswax foundation of the present invention provides an easy to use reusable beeswax foundation.
  • the rigid and durable structure of the beeswax foundation enables easy cleaning of the beeswax foundations after use and the cleaning may also be carried out in a forced manner, for example with pressurised water.
  • the beekeeping structure of the present invention provides a foundation frame enabling quick installation and removal of the beeswax foundation without weakening the structure of the beekeeping structure.
  • the beeswax foundation forms part of the foundation frame such that the overall construction of the foundation frame is simple.
  • Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a beeswax foundation according to the present invention
  • FIGS. 2a and 2b show details of different embodiments of the beeswax foundation according to the present invention
  • Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the beeswax foundation of figure 1;
  • Figure 4 shows a foundation frame in an assembled form
  • Figure 5 shows installing the beeswax foundation to the foundation frame according to the present invention
  • Figure 6 shows the foundation frame with the beeswax foundation; and Figure 7 shows a beekeeping structure comprising a bee feeding layer DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  • Figure 1 shows a beeswax foundation 2 for a foundation frame of a beehive.
  • the beeswax foundation 2 comprises a base plate 4 having a top edge 6, a bottom edge 8, a first side edge 10 extending between the bottom edge 8 and the top edge 6, and a second side edge 12 extending between the bottom edge 8 and the top edge 6.
  • the base plate 4 further comprises first and second side surfaces on opposite sides of the base plate 4.
  • the shape of the first and second side surfaces is defined by the top edge 6, bottom edge 8, first side edge 10 and second side edge 12.
  • the general shape of the base plate 4 is rectangular.
  • the base plate has a width
  • the base plate 4 has a first extension 14 provided to the first side edge 10 and protruding from the first side edge 10 away from the base plate 4.
  • the first extension 14 further extends a predetermined distance from the bottom edge 8 towards the top edge 6.
  • the base plate 4 further has a second extension 16 provided to the second side edge 12 and protruding from the second side edge 12 away from the base plate 4.
  • the second extension 16 further extends a predetermined distance from the bottom edge 8 towards the top edge 6.
  • the extensions provide an extended width W 2 for the base plate 4, which is greater than the width Wi. Accordingly, the base plate 4 has greater width in the vicinity of the bottom edge 8, or at the bottom edge 8, of the base plate 4, and at the predetermined distance from the bottom edge 8.
  • the first extension 14 further provides a first support edge 15 facing towards the top edge 6 and a first extension side edge 13 facing away from the base plate 4.
  • the second extension 16 further provides a second support edge 17 facing towards the top edge 6 and a second extension side edge 19 facing away from the base plate 4.
  • the first and second extensions 14, 16 are provided with securing elements 28, 29 for securing or locking the beeswax foundation 2 to a foundation frame.
  • the securing elements are securing holes 28, 29 provided to the first and second extension 14, 16, respectively.
  • the securing elements may also be notches, grooves or the like provided to the first and second extensions 14, 16, or to the first and second support edges 15, 17 or the first and second extension side edges 13, 19, respectively.
  • the extensions may also be omitted from the base plate 4, and the securing elements 28, 29 may be provided to the base plate 4 in some other location, preferably close to an edge 6, 8, 10, 12 of the base plate.
  • the base plate 4 may be provided with securing elements 28, 29, such as securing holes 28, 29, for securing or locking the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame.
  • the base plate 4 may be further provided with one or more auxiliary holes 18.
  • the auxiliary holes 18 are provided to the corners, or in the vicinity thereof, of the base plate 4.
  • the one or more auxiliary holes 18 may also be provided to any other location of the base plate 4, preferably close to the edges 6, 8, 10, 12.
  • the auxiliary holes 18 may be utilized in handling of the beeswax foundation 2, or during harvesting honey from it, or during cleaning of the beeswax foundation 2.
  • the auxiliary holes 18 may be formed for stiffening the base plate 4. It should be noted that the auxiliary holes 18 may also be omitted.
  • the base plate 4 comprises one or more reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 for stiffening the base plate 4 or providing increased structural rigidity to the base plate 4 and the beeswax foundation 2.
  • the reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 are longitudinal reinforcements, as shown in figure 1.
  • the base plate 4 may comprise one or more first longitudinal reinforcements 20, 22 extending parallel to the top and bottom edges 8, 6 of the base plate 4 and one or more second reinforcements 24, 26 extending parallel to the first and second side edges 10, 12 of the base plate 4.
  • the base plate 4 comprises one first longitudinal reinforcement, top reinforcement, 20 extending parallel to the top edge 6 and in the vicinity of the top edge 6, and one first longitudinal reinforcement, bottom reinforcement, 22 extending parallel to the bottom edge 8 and in the vicinity of the bottom edge 8.
  • the base plate 4 further comprises one second longitudinal reinforcement, first side reinforcement, 24 extending parallel to the first side edge 10 and in the vicinity of the first side edge 10, and one second longitudinal reinforcement, second side reinforcement, 26 extending parallel to the second side edge 12 and in the vicinity of the second side edge 12.
  • the reinforcements may also be provided in any other manner to the base plate 4 or they may be of some other shape.
  • the one or more reinforcements may be provided by forming or shaping the base plate 4, for example by press forming, embossing, die cutting or the like shaping or forming method.
  • the one or more reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 may be attached to the base plate 4, or to the plate surface(s) of the base plate 4.
  • the reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 may be material strips or the like attached to the plate surface(s), such as metal strips.
  • the base plate 4 may be made of metal sheet, or sheet metal or thin sheet, such as steel, stainless steel, aluminium or some other suitable metal.
  • the base plate 4 may be made of plastic material or some other synthetic material, such as fibrous material or composite material capable of forming the base plate 4.
  • the plate surface(s) of the base plate 4 may be smooth or they may be patterned, as in figure 3.
  • the patterned plate surface(s) may be provided by forming the base plate, for example by die cutting embossing or press forming.
  • the pattern is a polygonal pattern or a hexagonal pattern suitable as groundwork for honeycombs formed by the bees.
  • the base plate 4 and the plate surface(s) may be coated with a beeswax layer.
  • the beeswax foundation 2 comprises a bottom edge flange provided to the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4.
  • the bottom edge flange extends along the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4.
  • Figures 2A and 2B show two different embodiments of the top edge flange in the detailed view of the detail part A of figure 1.
  • Figure 2A shows an embodiment in which the top edge flange 32, 34 is formed by bending the base plate 4 at the bottom edge 8.
  • the bottom edge flange comprises a first flange part 32 extending in a first direction transversely or perpendicularly from the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4 and from and relative to the base plate 4 or the plate surface.
  • the first flange part 32 provides a first flange edge 36 extending substantially parallel to the bottom edge 8.
  • the bottom edge flange comprises a first flange part 32 extending in a second direction transversely or perpendicularly from the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4 and from and relative to the base plate 4 or the plate surface.
  • the second flange part 34 provides a second flange edge 38 extending substantially parallel to the bottom edge 8.
  • the first and second directions are perpendicular to the direction of the plate surface(s) of the base plate 4, and extend in opposite directions.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 extends in two directions from the bottom edge 8 and forms a T-shaped cross-section.
  • the bottom edge flange is formed by bending or shaping the base plate 4 such that the base plate 4 is first bent in the first direction to the first flange edge 36 for forming the first flange part 32 and then bent in the second direction past the base plate 4 to the second flange edge 38.
  • the first and second flange parts 32, 34 preferably have the same length in the first and second directions from the base plate 4. Furthermore, the first and second flange parts 32, 34 preferably form an angle of 90 degrees with the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s).
  • Figure 2B shows an alternative embodiment, in which the bottom edge flange 32 extends transversely or perpendicularly in one direction, in the first direction, from the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4 and from and relative to the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s).
  • the bottom edge flange 32 forms an L- shaped cross-section with the base plate 4.
  • the bottom edge flange 32 is formed by bending or shaping the base plate 4 such that the base plate 4 is bent in the first direction to the first flange edge 36 for forming the flange part 32.
  • the bottom edge flange 32 preferably forms an angle of 90 degrees with the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s).
  • the bottom edge flange may be provided in various ways such that it extends from the base plate 4 in the thickness direction of the base plate 4 at the bottom edge 8.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may be a flange, lip, collar or any kind of structural element extending in the thickness direction of the base plate 4 at the bottom edge 8.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is formed by shaping the base plate 4 such that the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is provided as an integral part of the base pate 4. This is preferable as manufacturing the beeswax foundation becomes simple.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may also be attached fixedly or removably to the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4. When the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is attached fixedly to the base plate 4, it is also an integral part of the base plate 4.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may be attached to the bottom edge 8 with mechanical fasteners, such as rivets, staples, screws or the like.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may be attached to the bottom edge 8 by bonding, such a gluing with adhesive material or welding or fusing or some other bonding method. Also, an attached or bonded bottom edge flange 32, 34 may extend transversely or perpendicularly from the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s) in one direction or in two directions.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 and the base plate together form the beeswax foundation 2, also when the beeswax foundation 2 is separated or apart from the foundation frame.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is part of the beeswax foundation 2 and the base plate 4.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 extends along the whole length of the bottom edge 8 between the first and second side edges 10, 12 of the base plate 4. This is preferable as the bottom edge flange 32, 34 provides rigidity along the whole length of the base plate 4 between the first and second side edges 10, 12.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may also extend along only part of the length of the bottom edge 8 between the first and second side edges 10, 12 of the base plate 4, or the bottom edge 8 may be provided with two or more bottom edge flanges 32, 34 spaced apart from each other along the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4. In that case, there may be for example one bottom edge flange 32, 34 extending a predetermined distance from the first and second side edges 10, 12 along the bottom edge 8.
  • Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the beeswax foundation 2, and the bottom edge flange 32, 34 extending along the bottom edge 8.
  • the base plate 4 is formed from artificial solid plate material having structural strength and rigidity.
  • Figure 4 shows a beekeeping structure for a beehive.
  • the beekeeping structure comprises a foundation frame 50 and a beeswax foundation 2, when the beeswax foundation is installed into the foundation frame 50.
  • the foundation frame 50 comprises a top frame part 52, a first side frame part 60, and a second side frame part 70, as shown in figure 4.
  • the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 extend from the top frame part 52 in same direction such that the top frame part 52 forms together with the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 a U-shaped foundation frame 50.
  • the top frame part 52 has a first top frame end 51 and a second top frame end 57.
  • the first side frame part 60 is attached to the first top frame end 51 or to the vicinity thereof, and the second side frame part 70 is attached to the second top frame end 57 or to the vicinity thereof. Therefore, the U-shaped foundation frame 50 is formed.
  • the first side frame part 60 comprises a first proximal end 61 connected to the top frame part 52, or arranged towards the top frame part 52, and a first distal end 62 away or distal from or in relation to the top frame part 52.
  • the second side frame part 70 comprises a first proximal end 71 connected to the top frame part 52, or arranged towards the top frame part 52, and a second distal end 72 away or distal from or in relation to the top frame part 52.
  • the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 may be attached to the top frame part 52 with frame connections.
  • the frame connection may be a fixed frame connection which cannot be opened and the first and second side frame parts cannot be detached from the top frame part 52 without breaking the foundation frame 50.
  • the frame connection may be an openable or releasable frame connection which may be opened and the first and second side frame parts may be detached from the top frame part 52 without breaking the foundation frame 50, as in figure 4.
  • the first side frame part 60 comprises a first inner surface 69 facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame 50 or towards the second side frame part 70.
  • the first inner surface 69 is provided with a first groove 66 extending from the first distal end 62 of the first side frame part 60 towards the top frame part 52 and the first proximal end 61.
  • the first groove 66 extends from the first distal end 62 to the first proximal end 61 or to the top frame part 52.
  • the second side frame part 70 comprises a second inner surface 79 facing the inside of the U- shaped foundation frame 50 or towards the first side frame part 60.
  • the second inner surface 79 is provided with a second groove 76 extending from the second distal end 72 of the second side frame part 70 towards the top frame part 52 and the second proximal end 71.
  • the second groove 76 extends from the second distal end 72 to the second proximal end 71 or to the top frame part 52.
  • the top frame part 52 comprises a top inner surface 59 facing the inside of the U- shaped foundation frame 50, or in the direction in which the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 extend from the top frame part 52.
  • the top inner surface 59 is a bottom surface of the top frame part 52.
  • the top inner surface 59 is provided with a top groove 58 extending along the bottom side of the top frame part 52 between the first and second side frame parts or between the first and second top frame ends 51, 57.
  • the foundation frame 50 further comprises an attachment mechanism 67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82 arranged to removably attach the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame 50 between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70.
  • the attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment mechanism 67, 68, 80 provided to the first side frame part 60 or to the first distal end 62 of the first side frame part 60 or to the vicinity thereof.
  • the attachment mechanism also comprises a second attachment mechanism 77, 78, 82 provided to the second side frame part 70 or to the second distal end 72 of the second side frame part 70 or to the vicinity thereof.
  • the attachment mechanism or the first and second attachment mechanisms are provided as mechanical joints 67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82, or mortise- and-tenon joints, and arranged to form openable attachment mechanisms 67, 68,
  • the first attachment mechanism comprises a first slot 67 provided to the first distal end 62 of the first side frame part 60 and a first mortise 68 extending through the first slot 67 and the first side frame part 60.
  • the second attachment mechanism comprises a second slot 77 provided to the second distal end 72 of the second side frame part 70 and a second mortise 78 extending through the second slot 77 and the second side frame part 70.
  • the first and second slots 67, 77 are arranged such that they extend through the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, respectively, in a direction between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, or in the direction of the base plate 4 of the beeswax foundation 2.
  • the first and second slots 67, 77 are further open at the end faces of the first and second distal ends 62, 72 of the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, respectively.
  • the beekeeping structure further comprises the beeswax foundation 2 arranged to the U-shaped foundation frame 50.
  • Figure 5 shows installing the beeswax foundation 2 according to the present invention into the foundation frame 50.
  • the beeswax foundation 2 is arranged to be removably attached to the foundation frame 50 with the first and second attachment mechanisms 67, 68, 77,
  • the base plate 4 of the beeswax foundation 2 is slit into the foundation frame the top edge 6 first and starting from the first and distal ends 62, 72 of the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 such that the first side edge 10 is arranged into the first groove 66 and the second side edge 12 is arranged into the second groove 76.
  • the base plate 4 is secure between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70.
  • the first extension 14 is arranged into the first slot 67 at the first distal end 62 such that the first securing hole 28 in the first extension 14 is aligned with the first mortise 68 in the first side frame part 60.
  • the second extension 16 is arranged into the second slot 77 at the second distal end 72 such that the second securing hole 29 in the second extension 16 is aligned with the second mortise 78 in the second side frame part 70.
  • first and second mortises 68, 78 and the first and second securing holes 28, 29, respectively, are aligned, tenons 80, 82 may be pushed through the first and second mortises 68, 78 and the first and second securing holes 28, 29, respectively, for locking the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame 50.
  • the first extension 14 is thus arranged into the first slot 67 and inside the first side frame part 60 and the second extension 16 is thus arranged into the second slot 77 and inside the second side frame part 70.
  • the foundation frame 50 of the present invention comprises the top frame part 52, the first side frame part 60 and the second side frame part 70 and the bottom frame part is omitted, as the bottom edge flange 32, 34 of the beeswax foundation 2 forms the bottom frame part for the foundation frame 50 when the beeswax foundation 2 is installed to the foundation frame 50.
  • the foundation frame 50 may be provided with a foundation guide (not shown) for guiding or supporting the beeswax foundation 2 between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70.
  • the foundation guide may be arranged between and connected to the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 such that it supports the beeswax foundation 2 at the plate surface(s) of the base plate 4 or at the bottom edge flange 32, 34 when the beeswax foundation 2 is installed to the foundation frame 50.
  • the foundation guide may extend between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, and it may be a batten or two battens.
  • the foundation guide may also form a guide slit through which the base plate 4 of the beeswax foundation 2 is arranged when it is installed to the foundation frame 50.
  • Figure 6 shows the beeswax foundation 2 installed and locked to the foundation frame 50.
  • the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is arranged against the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 at the first and second distal ends 62, 72, or the end faces thereof, of the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, respectively, such that the bottom edge flange 32, 34 of the beeswax foundation 2 forms a bottom frame for the foundation frame 50.
  • the attachment mechanism, or the first and second attachment mechanisms locks the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame 50.
  • the first side edge 10 is arranged into the first groove 66
  • the second side edge 12 is arranged into the second groove 76
  • the top edge 6 is arranged into the top groove 58.
  • Figure 7 shows a beekeeping structure comprising a bee feeding layer 83.
  • Figure 7 shows a cross sectional side view of the beekeeping structure. Only a top frame part 52 from the foundation frame 50 is shown.
  • the bee feeding layer 83 is provided on the base plate 4.
  • the base plate 4 comprises two plate surfaces on opposite sides of the base plate 4. Both of the plate surfaces comprise a first artificially provided layer of beeswax 84 on it.
  • the artificially provided layer of beeswax 84 comprises an artificially provided honeycomb 85 made of beeswax on it.
  • the honeycomb can be made by extruding beeswax, for instance.
  • the honeycomb 85 comprises a plurality of honeycomb cells 86 and the honeycomb cells 86 comprise preferably hexagonal shape.
  • At least part of the honeycomb cells 86 comprises invert sugar 87 inside the cell.
  • Preferably major part of the honeycomb cells 86 comprises invert sugar 87 inside the cell.
  • 70- 100% of the honeycomb cells 86 comprises invert sugar 87 inside the cell.
  • the filling of the honeycomb cells 86 can be made with a needle tool comprising a plurality of needles comprising small hollow tubes, for instance.
  • At least part of openings of the honeycomb cells 86 are covered with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax 88 to retain the invert sugar 87 inside the honeycomb cells 86.
  • the covering of the openings can be made by spreading or spraying warm or hot beeswax on to the honeycomb cells 86 and the warm or hot beeswax adheres to the edges of the honeycomb cells 86 forming a second artificially provided layer of beeswax 88.
  • the bee in a beehive removes the second artificially provided layer of beeswax 88 which blocks the openings of the honeycomb cell 86 and then consumes the invert sugar 87. If the bees are fed with regular sugar the bees first decompose the regular sugar to invert sugar needing extra time and energy .
  • Invert sugar 87 comprises a mixture of glucose and fructose, and it is simple in structure and it is also easy for the bees to absorb it and process it.
  • base plate 4 comprises a bottom edge flange 32, 34 as shown in Figure 2A.
  • the base plate 4 may, however, comprise any bottom edge flange disclosed in the application.

Abstract

The invention relates to a beeswax foundation (2) and to a beekeeping structure for a beehive and to a method for constructing a beekeeping structure. The beeswax foundation (2) comprises a base plate (4) having a top edge (6), a bottom edge (8), a first side edge (10) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6), and a second side edge (12) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6). The beeswax foundation (2) further comprises a bottom edge flange (32, 34) provided to the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4), the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extending along the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4).

Description

BEESWAX FOUNDATION AND BEEKEEPING STRUCTURE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a beeswax foundation to be used in a beehive, and more particularly to a beeswax foundation according to preamble of claim 1. The present invention further relates to a beekeeping structure to be used in a beehive, and more particularly to a beekeeping structure according to preamble of claim 8. The present invention further relates to a method for constructing a beekeeping structure to be used in a beehive, and more particularly to a method for constructing a beekeeping structure according to preamble of claim 14.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Beekeeping is typically carried out in beehives comprising a stack of boxes with internal hanging foundation frames. The stacked boxes usually have between eight and ten foundation frames in each box, and the boxes are stacked one on top of another. The foundation frames are usually provided with a beeswax foundation having a base plate onto which bees draw out a beeswax honeycomb, which is used by the bees to store honey. Therefore, the beeswax foundation is supported to the foundation frame and the foundation frame is supported to the box of the beehive. The foundation frames are conventionally peripheral frames having a top frame part, bottom frame part and side frame parts extending between the top and bottom frame parts such that a rectangular and peripheral foundation frame is formed. The beeswax foundation is arranged inside the peripheral foundation frame and supported to the peripheral foundation frame with wires extending between the side frame parts or the top and bottom frame parts such that the beeswax foundation is inside the foundation frame. Each wire must be manually set to the foundation frame for supporting the beeswax foundation.
When honey is harvested from the beehive the foundation frames together with the beeswax foundations are removed from the beehive. Honey is then extracted from the beeswax foundations in the foundation frames with an extractor. After harvesting the honey, the used beeswax foundation must be removed from the foundation frame and also the wires must be removed from the foundation frame. Then the foundation frame is cleaned to be used again by installing a new beeswax foundation inside the foundation frame and setting new wires. Installing a new beeswax foundation to the foundation frame is manual work and takes 10 to 15 minutes time per foundation frame. Accordingly, it is very time consuming and limits efficiency in beekeeping.
Under certain weather conditions the bees, the bee colony, in a beehive need to be fed in order to keep the bee colonies alive. For instance, during a winter period the bees stay in their nest and need feeding. The bees are often fed with sucrose or invert sugar which is a mixture of glucose and fructose. The invert sugar is provided in a liquid form and positioned in a container on a top of the beehive. Typically, the feeding has to start immediately after harvesting the honey from the beehive, and the feeding container has to be refilled again once or twice during the feeding season. Accordingly, bee colony feeding is very time consuming and limits efficiency in beekeeping.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a beeswax foundation and a beekeeping structure and a method for constructing a beekeeping structure so as to solve or at least alleviate the prior art disadvantages. The objects of the invention are achieved by a beeswax foundation which is characterized by what is stated in claim 1. The objects of the present invention are also achieved by a beekeeping structure which is characterized by what is stated in claim 8. The objects of the present invention are also achieved by a method for constructing a beekeeping structure which is characterized by what is stated in claim 14.
The preferred embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.
The invention is based on the idea of providing a beeswax foundation for a foundation frame of a beehive. The beeswax foundation comprises a base plate having a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge, and a second side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. According to the present invention the beeswax foundation comprises a bottom edge flange provided to the bottom edge of the base plate. The bottom edge flange extends along the bottom edge of the base plate. The bottom edge flange makes the beeswax foundation rigid and provides necessary support for the beeswax foundation such that it may be a self-supporting structure.
The bottom edge flange may be attached to the bottom edge of the base plate. The attachment may be provided with mechanical fasteners, such as rivets, or with adhesive material or by welding or some other bonding method. The bottom edge flange may be an integral part of the bottom edge of the base plate or an integral part of the base plate. Term integral means that the bottom edge flange may not be removed from the bottom edge or from base plate without breaking or damaging the base plate. The bottom edge flange may also be formed from same material as the base plate and provided by forming the base plate at the bottom edge. This means that the bottom edge flange is formed by forming the base plate or the material of the base plate and the bottom edge flange is formed from the base plate.
According to the above mentioned, the bottom edge flange is a fixed or integral part of the beeswax foundation which enables providing the structural characteristics to beeswax foundation. Further, it means that the bottom edge flange is not intended to be removed or detached from the beeswax foundation during the lifetime of the beeswax foundation.
The bottom edge flange may be provided such that it extends transversely or perpendicularly from the bottom edge of the base plate or from the base plate. The bottom edge flange may extend transversely or perpendicularly in one direction from the bottom edge of the base plate or from the base plate. This means that the bottom edge flange forms an angle in relation to the base plate. Alternatively, the bottom edge flange may extend transversely or perpendicularly in opposite directions from the bottom edge of the base plate or from the base plate. This means that the bottom edge flange extends in two directions from the bottom edge in relation to the base plate. These two directions may be parallel or at an angle relative to each other. It should be noted that the base plate has a plate surface, or two plate surfaces on opposite sides of the plate, and the directions transversely and perpendicularly mean directions relative to the plate surface(s).
The base plate may be made of metal sheet, such as steel or aluminium, or of plastic sheet or synthetic material, such as some fibrous material. In a preferred embodiment the material of the base plate is material which may be molded, bent, press shaped or worked in some other manner for providing the bottom edge flange.
In one embodiment the base plate is made of magnetic stainless steel. Examples of magnetic stainless steel comprise martensitic, ferritic, duplex or precipitation hardening stainless steels.
Thickness of a base plate made of stainless steel may be 0.1 - 0.6 mm, or 0.2 - 0.5 mm, or preferably 0.25 - 0.4 mm. In one embodiment, the thickness of the base plate made of stainless steel may be 0.3 mm.
The bottom edge flange may extend along the whole length of the bottom edge between the first and second side edges of the base plate. Thus, the bottom edge flange is continuous between the first and second side edges of the base plate. Alternatively, the bottom edge flange may extend along part of the length of the bottom edge between the first and second side edges of the base plate. In this case, the bottom edge flange may be provided for example only to a central portion of the bottom edge between the first and second side edges of the base plate. Yet, alternatively, the bottom edge of the base plate may be provided with two or more separate bottom edge flanges spaced apart from each other along the bottom edge of the base plate. In that case, there may be for example separate bottom edge flanges extending a predetermined distance along the bottom edge from the first and second side edges, and possibly one or more separate bottom edge flanges in the central portion of the bottom edge.
The base plate may comprise one or more reinforcements. The base plate may comprise one or more longitudinal reinforcements extending along plate surface(s). The base plate may comprise one or more first longitudinal reinforcements extending parallel to the top and bottom edges of the base plate and one or more second reinforcements extending parallel to the first and second side edges of the base plate. The reinforcements provide additional rigidity to the beeswax foundation and further enable forming a self-supporting structure.
The one or more reinforcements may be provided by forming the base plate, for example by press forming, embossing, die cutting or the like shaping or forming method. Alternatively, the one or more reinforcements may be attached to the base plate or on the base plate. In that case, the reinforcements may be reinforcement ribs or the like which may be glued, welded or attached in another known manner to or on the base plate.
The present invention further relates to a beekeeping structure in a beehive. The beekeeping structure comprises a beeswax foundation and a foundation frame to which the beeswax foundation may be or is installed. According to the present invention, the beekeeping structure comprises a foundation frame consisting of a top frame part, a first side frame part and a second side frame part. The first and second side frame parts extend from the top frame part such that the top frame part forms together with the first and second side frame parts a U-shaped foundation frame. It should be noted that the top frame part, the first side frame part and the second side frame part may be separate parts attached to each other or, alternatively, two of them or all of them may be provided as a single part. The top frame part and the first and second side frame parts may be longitudinal elements or bars.
The foundation frame may further comprise an attachment mechanism arranged to removably attach the beeswax foundation to the foundation frame between the first and second side frame parts. The attachment mechanism is provided to the foundation frame for locking or securing the beeswax foundation to the foundation frame.
The attachment mechanism may comprise at least one first attachment mechanism provided to the first side frame part and at least one second attachment mechanism provided to the second side frame part. Alternatively, the attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment mechanism provided to first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part and at least one second attachment mechanism provided to second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part. Term distal end means the end of the first or second side frame part which is away from the top frame part. Further, the term distal end covers the end face and the vicinity of the end of the first and second side frame parts away from the top frame part.
The attachment mechanism may comprise at least one mechanical joint arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism may comprise at least one mortise-and-tenon joint arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism. Alternatively, the attachment mechanism may comprise at least one latch joint arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism. The mechanical and openable attachment mechanism allows the beeswax foundation to be installed easily into the foundation frame and locked or secured to the foundation frame. The mechanical and openable attachment mechanism further allows a used beeswax foundation to be released and removed from the foundation frame easily. Term openable means that the attachment mechanism may be set to a closed position in which the beeswax foundation is secured or locked to the foundation frame and to an open position in which the beeswax foundation is released from the foundation frame such that it may be installed to or removed from the foundation frame.
The beekeeping structure may further comprise a beeswax foundation arranged or installed to the U-shaped foundation frame. The beeswax foundation may comprise a base plate having a bottom edge, a top edge, a first side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge, and a second side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. The beeswax foundation may be arranged to be removably attached to the foundation frame with the attachment mechanism. Accordingly, the beeswax foundation may be installed to the U-shaped foundation frame and secured or locked to the foundation frame with the attachment mechanism.
The beeswax foundation may comprise a bottom edge flange provided to the bottom edge of the base plate, the bottom edge flange extending along the bottom edge of the base plate. The bottom edge flange may be arranged against the first and second side frame parts at the first and second distal ends of the first and second side frame parts, respectively, such that the bottom edge flange of the beeswax foundation forms a bottom frame for the foundation frame. Accordingly, the beeswax foundation and the bottom edge flange of the base plate of the beeswax foundation provide a structural part for the foundation frame such that the foundation frame becomes a peripheral frame with increased structural rigidity.
The first side frame part may comprise a first inner surface facing the inside, or toward the second side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame. The first inner surface may be provided with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part. Additionally or alternatively, the second side frame part may comprise a second inner surface facing the inside, or towards the first side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame. The second inner surface may be provided with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part. The first side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the first groove and the second side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the second groove such that the base plate extends between the first and second side frame parts.
Furthermore, the top frame part may be provided with a top groove on the bottom surface thereof. The first side frame part may comprise a first inner surface facing the inside, or towards the second side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame. The first inner surface may be provided with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part. The second side frame part may comprise a second inner surface facing the inside, or towards the first side frame part, of the U-shaped foundation frame. The second inner surface may be provided with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part. Further, the top frame part may comprise a top inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, meaning the bottom surface of the top frame part. The top inner surface may be provided with a top groove extending along the top inner surface of the top frame part between the first and second side frame parts. The first side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the first groove, the second side edge of the base plate may be arranged into the second groove and the top edge of the base plate may be arranged into the top groove of the top frame part such that the base plate extends from the top frame part between the first and second side frame parts.
The beekeeping structure may comprise a bee feeding layer. The bee feeding layer is provided on the base plate. The base plate comprises two plate surfaces on opposite sides of the base plate. One of the two plate surfaces or both of the plate surfaces comprise a first artificially provided layer of beeswax on it. The artificially provided layer of beeswax comprises an artificially provided honeycomb made of beeswax on it. The honeycomb comprises a plurality of honeycomb cells and the honeycomb cells comprise preferably hexagonal shape. At least part of the honeycomb cells comprises invert sugar inside the cell. At least part of openings of the honeycomb cells are covered with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax to retain the invert sugar inside the honeycomb cells.
The beekeeping structure is advantageous for feeding the bees. The feeding layer is relatively heavy, and the beeswax foundation and the foundation frame need to adequately stiff and rigid to be able to carry the weight. The beeswax foundation and the bottom edge flange of the base plate of the beeswax foundation provide a structural part for the foundation frame such that the foundation frame becomes a peripheral frame with increased structural rigidity. Additionally, as the beekeeping structure comprises plate surfaces which are uncovered, the production of the bee feeding layer on to the beeswax foundation can be made efficiently and mechanically with only few manual working phases. The beekeeping structure comprising a bee feeding layer reduces also local work at the beehive farm and maintenance during the feeding period. When honey is harvested from the beehive the beekeeping structures are removed from the beehive. Then, if the bee feeding is necessary, the beforehand prepared beekeeping structures comprising the bee feeding layer are installed to the beehives.
The present invention further relates to a method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive. The method comprises providing a foundation frame consisting of a top frame part, a first side frame part and a second side frame part for the beekeeping structure, arranging the first and second side frame parts to extend from the top frame part such that the top frame part forms together with the first and second side frame parts a U-shaped foundation frame. The method further comprises providing a beeswax foundation comprising a base plate having a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge extending between the bottom edge and the top edge, and a second side edge extending between the bottom edge and the top edge, and providing a bottom edge flange to the bottom edge of the base plate of the beeswax foundation, the bottom edge flange extending along the bottom edge of the base plate, and making the beeswax foundation rigid by providing the bottom edge flange as an integral part of the bottom edge of the base plate.
Further, the method comprises arranging the beeswax foundation of the beekeeping structure to the U-shaped foundation frame, arranging the bottom edge flange against the first and second side frame parts at the first and second distal ends of the first and second side frame parts, respectively, such that the bottom edge flange of the beeswax foundation forms a bottom frame part for the foundation frame, and arranging an attachment mechanism of the foundation frame to removably attach a beeswax foundation to the foundation frame between the first and second side frame parts.
Further, in the method the first side frame part comprises a first inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, and the method comprises providing the first inner surface with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part, and the second side frame part comprises a second inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, providing the second inner surface with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part; or in the method the first side frame part comprises a first inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, providing the first inner surface with a first groove extending from the first distal end of the first side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part, the second side frame part comprises a second inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, providing the second inner surface with a second groove extending from the second distal end of the second side frame part in relation to the top frame part towards the top frame part, and the top frame comprises a top inner surface facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame, providing the top inner surface with a top groove extending along the top frame part between the first and second side frame parts. The method further comprises arranging the beeswax foundation to be removably attached to the foundation frame with the attachment mechanism.
The method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive may comprise constructing a bee feeding layer to the beekeeping structure. The constructing a bee feeding layer to the beekeeping structure comprises providing artificially a first layer of beeswax on at least one of the two plate surfaces of the base plate, providing artificially a honeycomb made of beeswax on the first layer of beeswax, the honeycomb comprising a plurality of honeycomb cells, filling at least part of the honeycomb cells with invert sugar, covering at least part of openings of the honeycomb cells with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax.
The method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive may comprise the invented beeswax foundation for a foundation frame of a beehive.
The beeswax foundation of the present invention provides an easy to use reusable beeswax foundation. The rigid and durable structure of the beeswax foundation enables easy cleaning of the beeswax foundations after use and the cleaning may also be carried out in a forced manner, for example with pressurised water. The beekeeping structure of the present invention provides a foundation frame enabling quick installation and removal of the beeswax foundation without weakening the structure of the beekeeping structure. In the beekeeping structure of the present invention the beeswax foundation forms part of the foundation frame such that the overall construction of the foundation frame is simple.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is described in detail by means of specific embodiments with reference to the enclosed drawings, in which
Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a beeswax foundation according to the present invention;
Figures 2a and 2b show details of different embodiments of the beeswax foundation according to the present invention;
Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the beeswax foundation of figure 1;
Figure 4 shows a foundation frame in an assembled form;
Figure 5 shows installing the beeswax foundation to the foundation frame according to the present invention;
Figure 6 shows the foundation frame with the beeswax foundation; and Figure 7 shows a beekeeping structure comprising a bee feeding layer DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Figure 1 shows a beeswax foundation 2 for a foundation frame of a beehive. The beeswax foundation 2 comprises a base plate 4 having a top edge 6, a bottom edge 8, a first side edge 10 extending between the bottom edge 8 and the top edge 6, and a second side edge 12 extending between the bottom edge 8 and the top edge 6. The base plate 4 further comprises first and second side surfaces on opposite sides of the base plate 4. The shape of the first and second side surfaces is defined by the top edge 6, bottom edge 8, first side edge 10 and second side edge 12. The general shape of the base plate 4 is rectangular. The base plate has a width
Wi between the first and second side edges 10, 12.
In the embodiment of figure 1, the base plate 4 has a first extension 14 provided to the first side edge 10 and protruding from the first side edge 10 away from the base plate 4. The first extension 14 further extends a predetermined distance from the bottom edge 8 towards the top edge 6. The base plate 4 further has a second extension 16 provided to the second side edge 12 and protruding from the second side edge 12 away from the base plate 4. The second extension 16 further extends a predetermined distance from the bottom edge 8 towards the top edge 6. The extensions provide an extended width W2 for the base plate 4, which is greater than the width Wi. Accordingly, the base plate 4 has greater width in the vicinity of the bottom edge 8, or at the bottom edge 8, of the base plate 4, and at the predetermined distance from the bottom edge 8. The first extension 14 further provides a first support edge 15 facing towards the top edge 6 and a first extension side edge 13 facing away from the base plate 4. Similarly, the second extension 16 further provides a second support edge 17 facing towards the top edge 6 and a second extension side edge 19 facing away from the base plate 4.
The first and second extensions 14, 16 are provided with securing elements 28, 29 for securing or locking the beeswax foundation 2 to a foundation frame. In the embodiment of figure 1, the securing elements are securing holes 28, 29 provided to the first and second extension 14, 16, respectively. In an alternative embodiment, the securing elements may also be notches, grooves or the like provided to the first and second extensions 14, 16, or to the first and second support edges 15, 17 or the first and second extension side edges 13, 19, respectively.
It should be noted that the extensions may also be omitted from the base plate 4, and the securing elements 28, 29 may be provided to the base plate 4 in some other location, preferably close to an edge 6, 8, 10, 12 of the base plate.
Therefore, the base plate 4 may be provided with securing elements 28, 29, such as securing holes 28, 29, for securing or locking the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame.
The base plate 4 may be further provided with one or more auxiliary holes 18. In the embodiment of figure 1, the auxiliary holes 18 are provided to the corners, or in the vicinity thereof, of the base plate 4. However, the one or more auxiliary holes 18 may also be provided to any other location of the base plate 4, preferably close to the edges 6, 8, 10, 12. The auxiliary holes 18 may be utilized in handling of the beeswax foundation 2, or during harvesting honey from it, or during cleaning of the beeswax foundation 2. Furthermore, the auxiliary holes 18 may be formed for stiffening the base plate 4. It should be noted that the auxiliary holes 18 may also be omitted.
The base plate 4 comprises one or more reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 for stiffening the base plate 4 or providing increased structural rigidity to the base plate 4 and the beeswax foundation 2. The reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 are longitudinal reinforcements, as shown in figure 1.
The base plate 4 may comprise one or more first longitudinal reinforcements 20, 22 extending parallel to the top and bottom edges 8, 6 of the base plate 4 and one or more second reinforcements 24, 26 extending parallel to the first and second side edges 10, 12 of the base plate 4.
In figure 1, the base plate 4 comprises one first longitudinal reinforcement, top reinforcement, 20 extending parallel to the top edge 6 and in the vicinity of the top edge 6, and one first longitudinal reinforcement, bottom reinforcement, 22 extending parallel to the bottom edge 8 and in the vicinity of the bottom edge 8. The base plate 4 further comprises one second longitudinal reinforcement, first side reinforcement, 24 extending parallel to the first side edge 10 and in the vicinity of the first side edge 10, and one second longitudinal reinforcement, second side reinforcement, 26 extending parallel to the second side edge 12 and in the vicinity of the second side edge 12.
The reinforcements may also be provided in any other manner to the base plate 4 or they may be of some other shape.
The one or more reinforcements may be provided by forming or shaping the base plate 4, for example by press forming, embossing, die cutting or the like shaping or forming method. Alternatively, the one or more reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 may be attached to the base plate 4, or to the plate surface(s) of the base plate 4. In the latter case, the reinforcements 20, 22, 24, 26 may be material strips or the like attached to the plate surface(s), such as metal strips.
The base plate 4 may be made of metal sheet, or sheet metal or thin sheet, such as steel, stainless steel, aluminium or some other suitable metal. Alternatively, the base plate 4 may be made of plastic material or some other synthetic material, such as fibrous material or composite material capable of forming the base plate 4.
The plate surface(s) of the base plate 4 may be smooth or they may be patterned, as in figure 3. The patterned plate surface(s) may be provided by forming the base plate, for example by die cutting embossing or press forming. In some embodiments the pattern is a polygonal pattern or a hexagonal pattern suitable as groundwork for honeycombs formed by the bees.
Furthermore, in some embodiments the base plate 4 and the plate surface(s) may be coated with a beeswax layer.
In the present invention, the beeswax foundation 2 comprises a bottom edge flange provided to the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4. The bottom edge flange extends along the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4. Figures 2A and 2B show two different embodiments of the top edge flange in the detailed view of the detail part A of figure 1.
Figure 2A shows an embodiment in which the top edge flange 32, 34 is formed by bending the base plate 4 at the bottom edge 8. The bottom edge flange comprises a first flange part 32 extending in a first direction transversely or perpendicularly from the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4 and from and relative to the base plate 4 or the plate surface. The first flange part 32 provides a first flange edge 36 extending substantially parallel to the bottom edge 8. The bottom edge flange comprises a first flange part 32 extending in a second direction transversely or perpendicularly from the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4 and from and relative to the base plate 4 or the plate surface. The second flange part 34 provides a second flange edge 38 extending substantially parallel to the bottom edge 8. Preferably, the first and second directions are perpendicular to the direction of the plate surface(s) of the base plate 4, and extend in opposite directions. In other words, the bottom edge flange 32, 34 extends in two directions from the bottom edge 8 and forms a T-shaped cross-section.
In one embodiment, the bottom edge flange is formed by bending or shaping the base plate 4 such that the base plate 4 is first bent in the first direction to the first flange edge 36 for forming the first flange part 32 and then bent in the second direction past the base plate 4 to the second flange edge 38. The first and second flange parts 32, 34 preferably have the same length in the first and second directions from the base plate 4. Furthermore, the first and second flange parts 32, 34 preferably form an angle of 90 degrees with the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s).
Figure 2B shows an alternative embodiment, in which the bottom edge flange 32 extends transversely or perpendicularly in one direction, in the first direction, from the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4 and from and relative to the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s). Thus, the bottom edge flange 32 forms an L- shaped cross-section with the base plate 4.
In this embodiment, the bottom edge flange 32 is formed by bending or shaping the base plate 4 such that the base plate 4 is bent in the first direction to the first flange edge 36 for forming the flange part 32. The bottom edge flange 32 preferably forms an angle of 90 degrees with the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s).
It should be noted that the bottom edge flange may be provided in various ways such that it extends from the base plate 4 in the thickness direction of the base plate 4 at the bottom edge 8. The bottom edge flange 32, 34 may be a flange, lip, collar or any kind of structural element extending in the thickness direction of the base plate 4 at the bottom edge 8.
Furthermore, in figures 2A and 2B the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is formed by shaping the base plate 4 such that the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is provided as an integral part of the base pate 4. This is preferable as manufacturing the beeswax foundation becomes simple. However, the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may also be attached fixedly or removably to the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4. When the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is attached fixedly to the base plate 4, it is also an integral part of the base plate 4. The bottom edge flange 32, 34 may be attached to the bottom edge 8 with mechanical fasteners, such as rivets, staples, screws or the like. Alternatively, the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may be attached to the bottom edge 8 by bonding, such a gluing with adhesive material or welding or fusing or some other bonding method. Also, an attached or bonded bottom edge flange 32, 34 may extend transversely or perpendicularly from the base plate 4 or the plate surface(s) in one direction or in two directions.
It should be noted that according to the present invention the bottom edge flange 32, 34 and the base plate together form the beeswax foundation 2, also when the beeswax foundation 2 is separated or apart from the foundation frame. Thus, the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is part of the beeswax foundation 2 and the base plate 4.
In the embodiments shown in figures 1 to 6, the bottom edge flange 32, 34 extends along the whole length of the bottom edge 8 between the first and second side edges 10, 12 of the base plate 4. This is preferable as the bottom edge flange 32, 34 provides rigidity along the whole length of the base plate 4 between the first and second side edges 10, 12. However, the bottom edge flange 32, 34 may also extend along only part of the length of the bottom edge 8 between the first and second side edges 10, 12 of the base plate 4, or the bottom edge 8 may be provided with two or more bottom edge flanges 32, 34 spaced apart from each other along the bottom edge 8 of the base plate 4. In that case, there may be for example one bottom edge flange 32, 34 extending a predetermined distance from the first and second side edges 10, 12 along the bottom edge 8.
Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the beeswax foundation 2, and the bottom edge flange 32, 34 extending along the bottom edge 8. The base plate 4 is formed from artificial solid plate material having structural strength and rigidity.
Figure 4 shows a beekeeping structure for a beehive. The beekeeping structure comprises a foundation frame 50 and a beeswax foundation 2, when the beeswax foundation is installed into the foundation frame 50. According to the present invention the foundation frame 50 comprises a top frame part 52, a first side frame part 60, and a second side frame part 70, as shown in figure 4. The first and second side frame parts 60, 70 extend from the top frame part 52 in same direction such that the top frame part 52 forms together with the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 a U-shaped foundation frame 50.
The top frame part 52 has a first top frame end 51 and a second top frame end 57. The first side frame part 60 is attached to the first top frame end 51 or to the vicinity thereof, and the second side frame part 70 is attached to the second top frame end 57 or to the vicinity thereof. Therefore, the U-shaped foundation frame 50 is formed. The first side frame part 60 comprises a first proximal end 61 connected to the top frame part 52, or arranged towards the top frame part 52, and a first distal end 62 away or distal from or in relation to the top frame part 52. The second side frame part 70 comprises a first proximal end 71 connected to the top frame part 52, or arranged towards the top frame part 52, and a second distal end 72 away or distal from or in relation to the top frame part 52. As shown in figure 4, the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 may be attached to the top frame part 52 with frame connections. The frame connection may be a fixed frame connection which cannot be opened and the first and second side frame parts cannot be detached from the top frame part 52 without breaking the foundation frame 50. Alternatively, the frame connection may be an openable or releasable frame connection which may be opened and the first and second side frame parts may be detached from the top frame part 52 without breaking the foundation frame 50, as in figure 4.
The first side frame part 60 comprises a first inner surface 69 facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame 50 or towards the second side frame part 70. The first inner surface 69 is provided with a first groove 66 extending from the first distal end 62 of the first side frame part 60 towards the top frame part 52 and the first proximal end 61. Preferably the first groove 66 extends from the first distal end 62 to the first proximal end 61 or to the top frame part 52. The second side frame part 70 comprises a second inner surface 79 facing the inside of the U- shaped foundation frame 50 or towards the first side frame part 60. The second inner surface 79 is provided with a second groove 76 extending from the second distal end 72 of the second side frame part 70 towards the top frame part 52 and the second proximal end 71. Preferably the second groove 76 extends from the second distal end 72 to the second proximal end 71 or to the top frame part 52. The top frame part 52 comprises a top inner surface 59 facing the inside of the U- shaped foundation frame 50, or in the direction in which the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 extend from the top frame part 52. The top inner surface 59 is a bottom surface of the top frame part 52. The top inner surface 59 is provided with a top groove 58 extending along the bottom side of the top frame part 52 between the first and second side frame parts or between the first and second top frame ends 51, 57.
The foundation frame 50 further comprises an attachment mechanism 67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82 arranged to removably attach the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame 50 between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70. The attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment mechanism 67, 68, 80 provided to the first side frame part 60 or to the first distal end 62 of the first side frame part 60 or to the vicinity thereof. The attachment mechanism also comprises a second attachment mechanism 77, 78, 82 provided to the second side frame part 70 or to the second distal end 72 of the second side frame part 70 or to the vicinity thereof. The attachment mechanism or the first and second attachment mechanisms are provided as mechanical joints 67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82, or mortise- and-tenon joints, and arranged to form openable attachment mechanisms 67, 68,
77, 78, 80, 82.
The first attachment mechanism comprises a first slot 67 provided to the first distal end 62 of the first side frame part 60 and a first mortise 68 extending through the first slot 67 and the first side frame part 60. The second attachment mechanism comprises a second slot 77 provided to the second distal end 72 of the second side frame part 70 and a second mortise 78 extending through the second slot 77 and the second side frame part 70.
The first and second slots 67, 77 are arranged such that they extend through the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, respectively, in a direction between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, or in the direction of the base plate 4 of the beeswax foundation 2. The first and second slots 67, 77 are further open at the end faces of the first and second distal ends 62, 72 of the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, respectively.
The beekeeping structure further comprises the beeswax foundation 2 arranged to the U-shaped foundation frame 50. Figure 5 shows installing the beeswax foundation 2 according to the present invention into the foundation frame 50. The beeswax foundation 2 is arranged to be removably attached to the foundation frame 50 with the first and second attachment mechanisms 67, 68, 77,
78, 80, 82. The base plate 4 of the beeswax foundation 2 is slit into the foundation frame the top edge 6 first and starting from the first and distal ends 62, 72 of the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 such that the first side edge 10 is arranged into the first groove 66 and the second side edge 12 is arranged into the second groove 76. Thus, the base plate 4 is secure between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70.
At the end of the installation, the first extension 14 is arranged into the first slot 67 at the first distal end 62 such that the first securing hole 28 in the first extension 14 is aligned with the first mortise 68 in the first side frame part 60. Similarly, the second extension 16 is arranged into the second slot 77 at the second distal end 72 such that the second securing hole 29 in the second extension 16 is aligned with the second mortise 78 in the second side frame part 70. When the first and second mortises 68, 78 and the first and second securing holes 28, 29, respectively, are aligned, tenons 80, 82 may be pushed through the first and second mortises 68, 78 and the first and second securing holes 28, 29, respectively, for locking the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame 50. The first extension 14 is thus arranged into the first slot 67 and inside the first side frame part 60 and the second extension 16 is thus arranged into the second slot 77 and inside the second side frame part 70.
It should be noted, that the foundation frame 50 of the present invention comprises the top frame part 52, the first side frame part 60 and the second side frame part 70 and the bottom frame part is omitted, as the bottom edge flange 32, 34 of the beeswax foundation 2 forms the bottom frame part for the foundation frame 50 when the beeswax foundation 2 is installed to the foundation frame 50.
In some embodiment, the foundation frame 50 may be provided with a foundation guide (not shown) for guiding or supporting the beeswax foundation 2 between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70. The foundation guide may be arranged between and connected to the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 such that it supports the beeswax foundation 2 at the plate surface(s) of the base plate 4 or at the bottom edge flange 32, 34 when the beeswax foundation 2 is installed to the foundation frame 50. The foundation guide may extend between the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, and it may be a batten or two battens. The foundation guide may also form a guide slit through which the base plate 4 of the beeswax foundation 2 is arranged when it is installed to the foundation frame 50.
Figure 6 shows the beeswax foundation 2 installed and locked to the foundation frame 50. In this installed state the bottom edge flange 32, 34 is arranged against the first and second side frame parts 60, 70 at the first and second distal ends 62, 72, or the end faces thereof, of the first and second side frame parts 60, 70, respectively, such that the bottom edge flange 32, 34 of the beeswax foundation 2 forms a bottom frame for the foundation frame 50. The attachment mechanism, or the first and second attachment mechanisms, locks the beeswax foundation 2 to the foundation frame 50. Furthermore, the first side edge 10 is arranged into the first groove 66, the second side edge 12 is arranged into the second groove 76 and the top edge 6 is arranged into the top groove 58.
Figure 7 shows a beekeeping structure comprising a bee feeding layer 83. Figure 7 shows a cross sectional side view of the beekeeping structure. Only a top frame part 52 from the foundation frame 50 is shown. The bee feeding layer 83 is provided on the base plate 4. The base plate 4 comprises two plate surfaces on opposite sides of the base plate 4. Both of the plate surfaces comprise a first artificially provided layer of beeswax 84 on it. The artificially provided layer of beeswax 84 comprises an artificially provided honeycomb 85 made of beeswax on it. The honeycomb can be made by extruding beeswax, for instance. The honeycomb 85 comprises a plurality of honeycomb cells 86 and the honeycomb cells 86 comprise preferably hexagonal shape. At least part of the honeycomb cells 86 comprises invert sugar 87 inside the cell. Preferably major part of the honeycomb cells 86 comprises invert sugar 87 inside the cell. For instance, 70- 100% of the honeycomb cells 86 comprises invert sugar 87 inside the cell. The filling of the honeycomb cells 86 can be made with a needle tool comprising a plurality of needles comprising small hollow tubes, for instance. At least part of openings of the honeycomb cells 86 are covered with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax 88 to retain the invert sugar 87 inside the honeycomb cells 86. The covering of the openings can be made by spreading or spraying warm or hot beeswax on to the honeycomb cells 86 and the warm or hot beeswax adheres to the edges of the honeycomb cells 86 forming a second artificially provided layer of beeswax 88.
The bee in a beehive removes the second artificially provided layer of beeswax 88 which blocks the openings of the honeycomb cell 86 and then consumes the invert sugar 87. If the bees are fed with regular sugar the bees first decompose the regular sugar to invert sugar needing extra time and energy . Invert sugar 87 comprises a mixture of glucose and fructose, and it is simple in structure and it is also easy for the bees to absorb it and process it.
In Figure 7 shown base plate 4 comprises a bottom edge flange 32, 34 as shown in Figure 2A. The base plate 4 may, however, comprise any bottom edge flange disclosed in the application.
The invention has been described above with reference to the examples shown in the figures. However, the invention is in no way restricted to the above examples but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A beeswax foundation (2) for a foundation frame (50) of a beehive, the beeswax foundation (2) comprising a base plate (4) having a top edge (6), a bottom edge (8), a first side edge (10) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6), and a second side edge (12) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6), characterized in that the beeswax foundation (2) comprises a bottom edge flange (32, 34) provided to the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4), the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extending along the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4) and that the bottom edge flange (32, 34) is integral part of the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4) making the beeswax foundation (2) rigid.
2. A beeswax foundation (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the bottom edge flange (32, 34) is:
- same material as the base plate (4) and provided by forming base plate (4) at the bottom edge (8).
3. A beeswax foundation (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that:
- the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extends transversely or perpendicularly from the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4); or
- the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extends transversely or perpendicularly in one direction from the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4); or
- the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extends transversely in opposite directions from the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4); or
- the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extends perpendicularly in opposite directions from the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4).
4. A beeswax foundation (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that:
- the base plate (4) is made of metal sheet; or
- the base plate (4) is made of plastic sheet; or
- the base plate (4) is made of synthetic material.
5. A beeswax foundation (2) according to claim 4, characterized in that:
- the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extends along the whole length of the bottom edge (8) between the first and second side edges (10, 12) of the base plate (4); or
- the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extends along part of the length of the bottom edge (8) between the first and second side edges (10, 12) of the base plate (4); or
- the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4) is provided with two or more bottom edge flanges (32, 34) spaced apart from each other along the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4). 6. A beeswax foundation (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:
- the base plate (4) comprises one or more reinforcements (20, 22, 24,
26); or
- the base plate (4) comprises one or more longitudinal reinforcements (20, 22, 24, 26); or
- the base plate (4) comprises one or more first longitudinal reinforcements (20, 22) extending parallel to the bottom and top edges (8, 6) of the base plate (4) and one or more second reinforcements (24, 26) extending parallel to the first and second side edges (10, 12) of the base plate (4).
7. A beeswax foundation (2) according to claim 6, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:
- the one or more reinforcements (20, 22, 24, 26) are provided by forming the base plate (4); or
- the one or more reinforcements (20, 22, 24, 26) are attached to the base plate (4).
8. A beekeeping structure in a beehive, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the beekeeping structure comprises a foundation frame (50) consisting of:
- a top frame part (52);
- a first side frame part (60); and
- a second side frame part (70),
the first and second side frame parts (60, 70) extending from the top frame part (52) such that the top frame part (52) forms together with the first and second side frame parts (60, 70) a U-shaped foundation frame (50), and that the beekeeping structure comprises a beeswax foundation (2) arranged to the U- shaped foundation frame (50), the beeswax foundation (2) comprising a base plate (4) having a top edge (6), a bottom edge (8), a first side edge (10) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6), and a second side edge (12) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6), and that the beeswax foundation (2) comprises a bottom edge flange (32, 34) provided to the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4), the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extending along the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4), and that the bottom edge flange (32, 34) is integral part of the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4) making the beeswax foundation (2) rigid, and that the bottom edge flange (32, 34) is arranged against the first and second side frame parts (60, 70) at the first and second distal ends (62, 72) of the first and second side frame parts (60, 70), respectively, such that the bottom edge flange (32, 34) of the beeswax foundation (2) forms a bottom frame part for the foundation frame (50), and the foundation frame (50) comprises an attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82) arranged to removably attach a beeswax foundation (2) to the foundation frame (50) between the first and second side frame parts (60, 70),
- the first side frame part (60) comprises a first inner surface (69) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), the first inner surface (69) being provided with a first groove (66) extending from the first distal end (62) of the first side frame part (60) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52), and the second side frame part (70) comprises a second inner surface (79) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), the second inner surface (79) being provided with a second groove (76) extending from the second distal end (72) of the second side frame part (70) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52); or
- the first side frame part (60) comprises a first inner surface (69) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), the first inner surface (69) being provided with a first groove (66) extending from the first distal end (62) of the first side frame part (60) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52), the second side frame part (70) comprises a second inner surface (79) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), the second inner surface (79) being provided with a second groove (76) extending from the second distal end (72) of the second side frame part (70) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52), and the top frame (52) comprises a top inner surface (59) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), the top inner surface (59) being provided with a top groove (58) extending along the top frame part (52) between the first and second side frame parts (60, 70);
and the beeswax foundation (2) being arranged to be removably attached to the foundation frame (50) with the attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82).
9. A beekeeping structure according to claim 8, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:
- the attachment mechanism comprises at least one first attachment mechanism (67, 68, 80) provided to the first side frame part (60) and at least one second attachment mechanism (77, 78, 82) provided to the second side frame part (70); or
- the attachment mechanism comprises a first attachment mechanism (67, 68, 80) provided to a first distal end (62) of the first side frame part (60) in relation to the top frame part (52) and at least one second attachment mechanism (77, 78, 82) provided to a second distal end (72) of the second side frame part (70) in relation to the top frame part (52).
10. A beekeeping structure according to claim 8 or 9, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82) comprises:
- at least one mechanical joint (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82) arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82); or
- at least one mortise-and-tenon joint (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82) arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82); or
- at least one latch joint arranged to form an openable attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82).
11. A beekeeping structure according to any one of claims 8 to 10, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:
- the first side edge (10) of the base plate (4) is arranged into the first groove (66) and the second side edge (12) of the base plate (4) is arranged into the second groove (76) such that the base plate (4) extends between the first and second side frame parts (60, 70); or
- the first side edge (10) of the base plate (4) is arranged into the first groove (66), the second side edge (12) of the base plate (4) is arranged into the second groove (76) and the top edge (6) of the base plate (4) is arranged into the top groove (58) of the top frame part (52) such that the base plate (4) extends from the top frame part (52) between the first and second side frame parts (60, 70).
12. A beekeeping structure according to claim 11, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that:
- the base plate (4) comprises two plate surfaces on opposite sides of the base plate (4),
- at least one of the two plate surfaces comprises a first artificially provided layer of beeswax (84) on it,
- the artificially provided layer of beeswax (84) comprises an artificially provided honeycomb (85) made of beeswax on it,
- the honeycomb (85) comprises a plurality of honeycomb cells (86),
- at least part of the honeycomb cells (86) comprise invert sugar (87), and
- at least part of openings of the honeycomb cells (86) are covered with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax (88).
13. A beekeeping structure according to claim 11 or 12, c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the beeswax foundation (2) is a beeswax foundation according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
14. A method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive c h a r a c t e r i z e d in that the method comprises:
- providing a foundation frame (50) consisting of a top frame part (52), a first side frame part (60) and a second side frame part (70) for the beekeeping structure,
- arranging the first and second side frame parts (60, 70) to extend from the top frame part (52) such that the top frame part (52) forms together with the first and second side frame parts (60, 70) a U-shaped foundation frame (50),
- providing a beeswax foundation (2) comprising a base plate (4) having a top edge (6), a bottom edge (8), a first side edge (10) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6), and a second side edge (12) extending between the bottom edge (8) and the top edge (6), and providing a bottom edge flange (32, 34) to the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4) of the beeswax foundation (2), the bottom edge flange (32, 34) extending along the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4), and - making the beeswax foundation (2) rigid by providing the bottom edge flange (32, 34) as an integral part of the bottom edge (8) of the base plate (4), and
- arranging the beeswax foundation (2) of the beekeeping structure to the U-shaped foundation frame (50),
- arranging the bottom edge flange (32, 34) against the first and second side frame parts (60, 70) at the first and second distal ends (62, 72) of the first and second side frame parts (60, 70), respectively, such that the bottom edge flange (32, 34) of the beeswax foundation (2) forms a bottom frame part for the foundation frame (50), and
- arranging an attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82) of the foundation frame (50) to removably attach a beeswax foundation (2) to the foundation frame (50) between the first and second side frame parts (60, 70), and
- the first side frame part (60) comprises a first inner surface (69) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), providing the first inner surface (69) with a first groove (66) extending from the first distal end (62) of the first side frame part (60) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52), and the second side frame part (70) comprises a second inner surface (79) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), providing the second inner surface (79) with a second groove (76) extending from the second distal end (72) of the second side frame part (70) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52); or
- the first side frame part (60) comprises a first inner surface (69) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), providing the first inner surface
(69) with a first groove (66) extending from the first distal end (62) of the first side frame part (60) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52), the second side frame part (70) comprises a second inner surface (79) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), providing the second inner surface (79) with a second groove (76) extending from the second distal end (72) of the second side frame part (70) in relation to the top frame part (52) towards the top frame part (52), and the top frame (52) comprises a top inner surface (59) facing the inside of the U-shaped foundation frame (50), providing the top inner surface (59) with a top groove (58) extending along the top frame part (52) between the first and second side frame parts (60, 70); and
- arranging the beeswax foundation (2) to be removably attached to the foundation frame (50) with the attachment mechanism (67, 68, 77, 78, 80, 82).
15. A method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive according to claim 14, characterized in that the method comprises constructing a bee feeding layer (83) to the beekeeping structure comprising:
-providing artificially a first layer of beeswax (84) on at least one of the two plate surfaces of the base plate (4),
- providing artificially a honeycomb made of beeswax (85) on the first layer of beeswax,
- the honeycomb (85) comprising a plurality of honeycomb cells (86), - filling at least part of the honeycomb cells (86) with invert sugar (87),
- covering at least part of openings of the honeycomb cells (86) with a second artificially provided layer of beeswax (88).
16. A method for constructing a beekeeping structure for a beehive according to any of claims 14- 15, characterized in that the beeswax foundation (2) is a beeswax foundation according to any one of claims 1 to 7.
PCT/FI2019/050062 2018-01-30 2019-01-29 Beeswax foundation and beekeeping structure WO2019149998A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FI20185080A FI129198B (en) 2018-01-30 2018-01-30 Beeswax foundation and beekeeping structure
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Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB190109563A (en) * 1901-05-08 1902-03-20 Robert Baldwin Improvements in Bee Hives
DE827439C (en) * 1948-10-24 1952-01-10 Fritz Bauckhage Frame rail for replaceable honeycomb frames
US3088135A (en) * 1961-08-10 1963-05-07 William Z Covington Frame and plastic comb foundation for beehives
US4261068A (en) * 1979-10-29 1981-04-14 Cho Young T Reinforcement in a honeycomb foundation
US4374440A (en) * 1981-02-10 1983-02-22 Perma-Comb Systems, Inc. Honeycomb
GB2144318A (en) * 1983-05-16 1985-03-06 Metal Deploye Belge Sa Honeycomb support for a beehive
US20070060021A1 (en) * 2002-12-13 2007-03-15 Bee-O-Sphere Technology Device for the production of comb honey

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB190109563A (en) * 1901-05-08 1902-03-20 Robert Baldwin Improvements in Bee Hives
DE827439C (en) * 1948-10-24 1952-01-10 Fritz Bauckhage Frame rail for replaceable honeycomb frames
US3088135A (en) * 1961-08-10 1963-05-07 William Z Covington Frame and plastic comb foundation for beehives
US4261068A (en) * 1979-10-29 1981-04-14 Cho Young T Reinforcement in a honeycomb foundation
US4374440A (en) * 1981-02-10 1983-02-22 Perma-Comb Systems, Inc. Honeycomb
GB2144318A (en) * 1983-05-16 1985-03-06 Metal Deploye Belge Sa Honeycomb support for a beehive
US20070060021A1 (en) * 2002-12-13 2007-03-15 Bee-O-Sphere Technology Device for the production of comb honey

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FI20185080A1 (en) 2019-07-31

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