WO2023023751A1

WO2023023751A1 - A separating and lifting device and method of use thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2023023751A1
Application number: PCT/AU2022/050978
Authority: WO
Inventors: Cedar Joseph Anderson; Stuart Ralph Anderson
Original assignee: Flowbee Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2021-08-24
Filing date: 2022-08-24
Publication date: 2023-03-02
Also published as: AU2021106808A4

Abstract

A separating and lifting device is provided for use with a beehive having an upper hive box and a lower hive box. The device includes: a support for supporting the device relative to a support surface; at least one support frame member extending from the support to a first end of the beehive, said at least one support frame member being mountable to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive; and at least one handle assembly mountable to the beehive at an opposed second end, said assembly including a separating mechanism for at least partially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

Description

A SEPARATING AND LIFTING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001 ] The present invention relates to a separating and lifting device and method of use thereof for use with a beehive having an upper hive box and a lower hive box.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Modern beehives generally have a multi-storey configuration comprising a bottom board having an entrance for the bees, boxes configured to be stacked atop the bottom board and one another containing frames for brood and honey, and a top cap or outer cover for protecting the hive from the elements.

[0003] Typically, the lowermost box is called “a brood box” and is where the queen lays her eggs. In some instances, there can be more than one brood box. The upper boxes are called “honey supers” and are where the honey is stored. The frames are generally hung parallel to each other in the boxes and typically have a plastic or wax foundation on which the bees draw out a beeswax honeycomb.

[0004] It is generally considered good beekeeping practice to routinely inspect the boxes of a hive to ensure the hive is healthy, free of disease, well-fed and not overcrowded and to determine the status of the queen and rate and nature of brood activity.

[0005] However, a problem in general with hive inspections is that it can be challenging (and potentially dangerous) for beekeepers to separate, lift, remove and support upper hive boxes or honey supers while inspecting lower hive boxes, including the brood box.

[0006] The problem is brought about in part due to the rectangular shape and size of the hives boxes, which makes them awkward to lift and handle, and in part due to the weight of the hive boxes, particularly the upper hive boxes or honey supers. Indeed, the problem is particularly pronounced through the season when the honey supers fill with ever growing volumes of honey.

[0007] Lifting devices such as hoists and cranes exist and are commonly utilized in commercial beekeeping operations where they are used to routinely inspect hundreds of hives. However, such hoists and cranes are costly, awkward to manoeuvre, complicated to operate, bulky to store and generally unsuited for and an unnecessary expense for your average domestic beekeeper who may keep one to three beehives.

[0008] Another problem in general with hive inspections is that it can be challenging to separate an upper hive box from a lower hive box. The problem is brought about due to the bees “gluing” the boxes together with propolis.

[0009] Conventional practice is to use a chisel or like sharp edged instrument to pry and lever the upper hive box apart from the lower hive box. However, the process is particularly fiddly and again potentially dangerous. Apart from typically requiring considerable force to push the chisel or like sharp edged instruments between the hive boxes, the problem is further compounded by the weight of the upper hive box, agitated bees and the fact that it usually additionally involves separating lower hive box frames that have also been “glued” to the upper hive box, while holding the boxes approximately 20-30mm apart from each other so as to safely separate the glued frames before they are inadvertently pulled clear of the lower hive box.

[0010] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0011 ] Embodiments of the present invention provide a separating and lifting device and method of use thereof, which may at least partially address one or more of the problems or deficiencies mentioned above or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0012] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a separating and lifting device for use with a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including a separating mechanism for separating or separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and a handle operatively associated with the upper hive box for pivoting the upper hive box between raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box. Optionally, the handle may additionally be used for actuating the separating mechanism. Optionally, the device may further include at least one hinge for hingedly connecting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box so that the upper hive box is pivotable about an axis of the at least one hinge. Optionally, the device may further include a support for supporting the upper hive box, when in the raised position.

[0013] In another form, the present invention resides broadly in a separating and lifting device for use with a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including at least one hinge for hingedly connecting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box so that the upper hive box is pivotable between raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box about an axis of the at least one hinge. Optionally, the device may further include a separating mechanism for separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box. Optionally, the device may further include a support for supporting the upper hive box, when in the raised position. Optionally, the device may further include a handle for raising and lowering the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a separating and lifting device for use with a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: a support for supporting the device relative to a support surface; at least one support frame member extending from the support to a first end of the beehive, said at least one support frame member being mountable to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive; and at least one handle assembly mountable to the beehive at an opposed second end, said assembly including a separating mechanism for at least partially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0015] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a separating and lifting device for use with a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: a support for supporting the device relative to a support surface; at least one support frame member extending from the support to a first end of the beehive, said at least one support frame member being mountable to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive; and at least one handle member mountable to the beehive at an opposed second end, said at least one handle member including a handle portion extending at least partially towards an opposed second end and pivotable between raised and lowered position relative to the lower hive box, said at least one handle member configured to be connectable to the upper hive box for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0016] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a separating and lifting device for use with a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: a support for supporting the device relative to a support surface; at least one support frame member extending from the support to a first end of the beehive, said at least one support frame member being mountable to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive; and at least one handle member having a mounting end pivotally mountable to the at least one support frame member and a handle portion extending beyond an opposed second end of the beehive and pivotable between raised and lowered position relative to the lower hive box, said at least one handle member configured to be connectable to the upper hive box for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0017] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a separating and lifting device for use with a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: at least one hinge for hingedly connecting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; and at least one handle member mountable to a side of the upper hive box and including a handle portion extending at least partially towards an opposed second end of the beehive and pivotable between raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about an axis of the at least one hinge and a support portion extending beyond the first end of the beehive for supporting the upper hive box relative to a support surface when pivoted relative to the lower hive box.

[0018] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a handle assembly for use with a separating and lifting device according to the first aspect, said assembly including: a separating mechanism mountable to an end of a beehive for at least partially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box; and at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0019] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a support frame assembly for use with a device according to any one of the first, second and third aspects, said assembly including: a support for supporting the lifting device relative to a support surface; and at least one support frame member extending from the support to a first end of a beehive, said at least one support frame member being mountable to a lower hive box at a first end of a beehive.

[0020] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a handle member for use with a device according to the second or third aspects, said handle member including: a mounting end pivotally mountable to at least one support frame member of the lifting device; and an opposed handle portion end configured to extend from the mounting end at least partially towards an opposed second end of a beehive and be pivotable between raised and lowered position relative to a lower hive box of the beehive, wherein said handle member is connectable to an upper hive box of the beehive for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0021 ] Advantageously, the present invention provides an easy to use separating and lifting device that may readily be fitted to a beehive in a releasable manner to separate (i.e., “un-glue”) and raise an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box for a hive inspection. Once fitted, the upper hive box may be separated and lifted with relative ease and effort using the separating mechanism and the class II lever formed by the outwardly extending handle member. Further, and by nature of its construction, the separating and lifting device does not disturb a hive entrance when lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box and therefore does not alarm guard bees located at the entrance of the hive. When a hive inspection is concluded, the device may be readily disassembled from the beehive and fitted to another beehive or stowed.

[0022] As indicated above, the device of the present invention is primarily for use with beehives having at least a lower hive box and an upper hive box stacked atop one another. It will therefore be convenient to describe the device with reference to this example application as a separating and lifting device for a beehive. However, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the device is capable of broader applications and is applicable for use with any stacked box arrangement.

[0023] As used herein, the term “beehive” may refer to any artificial structure for housing a honey bee nest and including a lower hive box and at least one upper hive box stacked atop the lower hive box.

[0024] A lowermost hive box of a beehive may be referred to as a “brood box” and is where the queen resides and lays her eggs. In some instances, a beehive may include more than one brood box stacked atop one another.

[0025] Upper hive boxes stacked atop the lowermost hive box, or lower hive boxes, may collectively be referred to as “honey supers” and are where honey is stored.

[0026] Each hive box may include an open top end and an opposed open bottom end. The open top and bottom ends are interconnected by a pair of opposed end walls and a pair of opposed sidewalls extending therebetween. The opposed end walls and opposed sidewalls may define a generally rectangular profile shape. [0027] The opposed end walls of the stacked hive boxes may define a first end and an opposed second end of the beehive. The first end may correspond to a front end of the beehive. The opposed second end may correspond to the rear end of the beehive.

[0028] The opposed sidewalls of the stacked hive boxes may define opposed sides of the beehive.

[0029] Each hive box may include a plurality of frames that are generally hung parallel to one another within the box in a spaced arrangement.

[0030] The bees may build a beeswax honeycomb on each frame in which the brood or honey is stored. In some embodiments, each frame may have a plastic or wax foundation defined thereon and configured for bees to draw out the beeswax honeycomb. As used herein, the term “brood” may include eggs, larvae, bee bread and pupae of bees.

[0031 ] Accordingly, the frames located in the brood box may typically contain brood and the frames located in the honey supers may contain honey.

[0032] The beehive may generally include a bottom board defining an entrance for the bees and atop of which the lower hive box is stacked.

[0033] Likewise, the beehive may include a top cap or outer cover for placement atop an uppermost hive box for protecting the beehive from the elements.

[0034] In some embodiments, the beehive may further include a hive stand for supporting the beehive atop a support surface.

[0035] As used herein, the term “support surface” may include a ground surface, a sealed surface (e.g., a concrete surface), or even a surface of another adjacent structure (e.g., a beehive box).

[0036] The device of the present invention may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials.

[0037] Generally, the device may be formed from a durable and strong material or materials, such as, e.g., plastic, wood or metal material or materials.

[0038] The device may be of unitary construction or may be formed from two or more lifting device pieces, typically the latter.

[0039] As indicated, the device is capable of raising and lowering an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, preferably about a single range of movement defined by a single horizontal pivot axis. The range of movement about the single horizontal pivot axis may be about 20°, about 25°, about 30°, about 35°, about 40°, about 45°, about 50°, about 55°, about 60°, about 65°, about 70°, about 75°, about 80°, about 85°, about 90°, about 95°, about 100°, about 105°, about 1 10°, about 115°, about 120°, about 125°, about 130°, about 135°, about 140°, about 145°, about 150°, about 155°, about 160°, about 165°, about 170°, about 175° or about 180°. Generally, the lifting device may provide a range of movement of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the single horizontal pivot axis of between about 45° and about 135°, preferably about 90°.

[0040] The single horizontal pivot axis may be located at any suitable location between the support and the first end of the beehive, preferably at a location near the first end of the beehive, more preferably at least about 20mm from the first end.

[0041 ] As indicated, the device includes a support for supporting the device relative to a support surface, preferably for stabilising the beehive while the upper hive box is separated and/or pivoted to a raised position relative to the lower hive box.

[0042] Generally, the support may include an elongate, generally vertically oriented structure. The support may include a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween. The opposed ends may include a lower end and an opposed upper end.

[0043] The lower end may be configured to engage with a support surface.

[0044] The opposed upper end may be connectable to the at least one support frame member.

[0045] The elongate body may be of tubular or solid construction, preferably the former.

[0046] The elongate body may be defined by at least one sidewall. The at least one sidewall may be curved such that the elongate body has a substantially circular profile shape, although non-circular profile shapes, such as, e.g., a rectangular shape, are also envisaged.

[0047] The support may be of a fixed height as defined between the opposed ends or may be adjustable, preferably the latter.

[0048] In preferred embodiments, the height of the support may be adjustable by a telescopic arrangement. For example, the support may include multiple telescoping support portions slidable relative to one another between a retracted position and an extended position to thereby adjust a height of the support.

[0049] In such embodiments, the support may further include a retaining mechanism for retaining the support portions at a set support height.

[0050] For example, in some such embodiments, the support portions may be locked relative to one another at a set support height by a locking pin extending through co-aligned holes defined in the sidewalls of the portions. The locking pin may be a conventional locking pin or may be a spring-loaded locking pin.

[0051 ] In other embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a first part associated with one of the support portions and second part connectable to the first part and associated with another of the support portions.

[0052] The retaining mechanism may include mateable male and female portions that couple together, such as, e.g., a threaded connection, an interference connection, or a friction fit-type connection.

[0053] In some such embodiments, the first part of the retaining mechanism associated with a sidewall of one of the support portions may include a male formation configured to be inserted into, or coupled with, a female formation of the second part of the retaining mechanism associated with another of the support portions.

[0054] In other embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a clamping device for clamping the support portions relative to one another, such as, e.g., a quick release clamp assembly.

[0055] In yet other embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a collar fitted to a receiving end of a first support portion slidably receiving a second support portion and a locking ring pivotally coupled to the collar and through which the second support portion extends therethrough, said locking ring may be pivotable between a release position in which the second portion is axially slidable relative to the first support portion and a locking position in which the locking ring applies an inward force to at least one side of the second support portion to prevent axial movement of the second support portion relative to the first support portion.

[0056] In such embodiments, the retaining mechanism may further include one or more biasing members or mechanisms so that the locking ring is biased to the locking position, and so that movement of the locking ring to the release position works against a force of the biasing member or mechanism. The biasing member or mechanism may include one or more springs, such as, e.g., coil springs. [0057] The locking ring may further include a release portion configured to be depressed to temporarily pivot the locking ring to the release position, typically against the force of the biasing member or mechanism. The release portion may extend away from the ring and at least partially alongside the collar. In preferred such embodiments, the locking ring may be spring-loaded with a spring extending between the release portion and the collar.

[0058] The locking ring may include a central aperture through which the second support portion extends. In the release position, a plane of the central aperture may extend perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the support members. Conversely, in the locking position the plane of the central aperture may be angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the support members thereby narrowing the central aperture through which the second support member extends and applying the inward force to at least one side of the second support portion.

[0059] In preferred embodiments, the support may include three telescopic portions including an upper support portion, a middle support portion configured to be telescopically received in a lower end of the upper support portion and a lower support portion configured to be telescopically received in a lower end of the middle support portion. Retaining mechanisms may be associated with the lower ends of the upper and middle support portions for retaining the telescopic portions relative to one another at set height.

[0060] In some embodiments, the support may further include a foot operatively associated with the lower end, or the lower end of a lowermost telescopic portion, for supporting the support relative to a support surface. The foot may be formed from rubber, plastic or metal material or materials.

[0061 ] The foot may include a flanged lower portion for at least partially stabilising the support relative to the support surface.

[0062] In some embodiments, the device may include more than one support. For example, the device may include two, three or even four supports. For example, in one such embodiment, the device may include two supports angled towards each other.

[0063] In other embodiments, the support may bifurcate from the upper end to the lower end.

[0064] As indicated, the device includes at least one support frame member extending between the support and the first end of the beehive for connecting the support to the beehive and optionally for pivotally coupling with the mounting end of the at least one handle member.

[0065] The at least one support frame member may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[0066] Typically, the at least one support frame member may include a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween, preferably in a linear orientation.

[0067] The pair of opposed ends may include a first end coupled to, or extending from, the support and an opposed second end mountable to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive.

[0068] The elongate body may be of a tubular or solid construction, preferably the former.

[0069] The elongate body may be defined by at least one sidewall extending between the opposed ends.

[0070] In some embodiments, the at least one sidewall may be curved such that the elongate body has a substantially circular profile shape.

[0071 ] In other embodiments, the elongate body may be defined by four sidewalls extending between the opposed ends such that the elongate body has a substantially rectangular profile shape. The four sidewalls may include an upper wall, an opposed lower wall and opposed sidewalls.

[0072] A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the at least one support frame member extends forward of the beehive to space the support from the first or front end of the beehive to at least partially stabilise the beehive relative to the support surface, particularly when an upper hive box is pivoted to the raised position.

[0073] Apart from stabilising the upper hive box when pivoted in the raised position, in some embodiments the at least one support frame member may be configured to receive and support the upper hive box, when separated and lifted or removed clear of the lower hive box. For example, the upper hive box may be pivoted and slid towards the support and atop the at least one support frame member. In such embodiments, at least one support frame member may suitably be of a length to receive and support the upper hive box.

[0074] The support frame member may have a length of about 400mm, about 450mm, about 500mm, about 550mm, about 600mm, about 650mm, about 700mm, about 750mm, about 800mm, about 850mm, about 900mm, about 950mm, about 1 ,000mm, about 1 ,050mm, about 1 ,100mm, about 1 ,150mm, about 1 ,200mm, about 1 ,250mm, about 1 ,300mm, about 1 ,350mm, about 1 ,400mm, about 1 ,450mm, or about 1 ,500mm or more. Typically, the at least one support frame member may have a length ranging from about 650mm to about 850mm.

[0075] In some embodiments, the at least one support frame member may have an adjustable length, such as, e.g., a telescopic arrangement.

[0076] In other embodiments, the at least one support frame member may have a fixed length.

[0077] The first end of the at least one support frame member may be coupled or joined to the support at or near the upper end of the support using conventional welding techniques and/or with one or more mechanical fasteners.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first end of the at least one support frame member may be coupled to the support indirectly using a bracket and/or one or more mechanical fasteners.

[0079] The opposed second end of the at least one support frame member may be mountable to the lower hive box in any suitable way, preferably releasably.

[0080] In some embodiments, the second end may include a plate portion configured to abut against an end or side of the lower hive box with one or more openings defined therein, each opening configured to receive a mechanical fastener therethrough to fasten the plate and the second end of the at least one support frame member to the end or the side of the lower hive box.

[0081 ] In other embodiments, the support frame member and the lower hive box may be connectable by a connecting mechanism or parts thereof. The connecting mechanism or parts thereof may or may not be of integral formation with each of the support frame member and the lower hive box.

[0082] In some such embodiments, the connecting mechanism may include a first part associated with the second end of the at least one support frame member and a second part connectable to the first part associated with an end or side of the lower hive box.

[0083] The connecting mechanism may include a mateable male and female portions that couple together, such as, e.g., by a threaded connection, an interference connection, a friction fit-type connection or a bayonet-type connection.

[0084] In some such embodiments, the first part of the connecting mechanism associated with, or forming part of, the second end of the at least one support frame member may include a male formation configured to be inserted into, or coupled with, a female formation of the second part of the connecting mechanism associated with, or forming part of, an end or side of the lower hive box.

[0085] Conversely, in other such embodiments, the first part of the connecting mechanism may include a female formation configured to at least partially receive, or be coupled with, a male formation of the second part of the connecting mechanism.

[0086] In other embodiments, the end wall and/or an adjacent sidewall of the lower hive box may include one or more protrusions protruding outwardly therefrom and the second end of the at least one support frame member may include a bracket having one or more corresponding shaped openings defined thereon and configured to fit over the one or more protrusions and connect the at least one support frame member to the lower hive box.

[0087] The bracket may be integrally formed with the second end of the at least one support frame member or may be of separate construction, preferably the latter. Typically, the bracket may be coupled or joined to the support frame member at or near the second end using conventional welding techniques and/or with one or more mechanical fasteners.

[0088] Each protrusion may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[0089] Generally, each protrusion may include a shank and an outer enlarged head or other type of retaining end located at a distal end of the shank. The protrusion may include or define a neck portion immediately proximal of the enlarged head or other type of retaining end.

[0090] Likewise, the shaped opening may be of any suitable shape to receive at least the enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough and engage about the neck portion.

[0091 ] Typically, the shaped opening may have an inverted key-hole shape. For example, the shaped opening may include an enlarged lower portion for receiving the enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough and a narrower upper portion configured to slide around, and be supported atop, the neck portion of the protrusion.

[0092] In some embodiments, the bracket operatively associated with the second end of the at least one support frame member may be configured to abut against and be coupled to the end wall of the lower hive box. In such embodiments, the protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall.

[0093] In other preferred embodiments, the bracket may be a corner bracket configured to at least partially fit about a corner defined between the end wall and an adjacent sidewall of the lower hive box. In such embodiments, the protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall and/or the sidewall, preferably the sidewall.

[0094] The corner bracket may have a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit about the corner and may include an end wall abutting portion and a sidewall abutting portion orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutting portion. The corner bracket may extend longitudinally at least partially along a height of the lower hive box. In some embodiments, the sidewall abutting portion may extend at least partially past a junction between the lower and upper hive boxes to define a handle member mount. This will be described in detail later. The one or more shaped openings may preferably be defined in the sidewall abutting portion of the corner bracket.

[0095] In preferred embodiments, the one or more protrusions may each be in the form of a mechanical fastener having a tip and enlarged head and a shank extending therebetween. The shank may include at least a threaded portion located at or near the tip for being threadingly received in a sidewall or end wall of the lower hive box, preferably sidewall.

[0096] In some embodiments, the device may include more than one support frame member extending from the support and connecting to a lower hive box at the first end of the beehive.

[0097] For example, in preferred such embodiments, the lifting device may include a pair of support frame members extending from the support and connecting to front corners of the lower hive box.

[0098] In some such embodiments, the pair of support frame members may be pivotally coupled to the support at or near the upper end so as to be pivotable about a vertical axis to fit to hive boxes of differing widths. The support frame members may be pivotally coupled to the support in any conventional way known in the art.

[0099] As indicated, the device includes at least one handle member connectable to the upper hive box and configured to be pivotable between the raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box for raising and lowering the upper hive box.

[00100] In some embodiments, the at least one handle member may be pivotally mountable to the at least one support frame member.

[00101] In some embodiments, the handle portion of the at least one handle member may extend from the mounting end at least partially towards the opposed second end of the beehive, preferably beyond the opposed second end of the beehive. [00102] In other embodiments, the handle portion of the at least one handle member may extend outwards from the opposed second end of the beehive.

[00103] In yet other embodiments, the at least one handle member may be mountable to a side of the upper hive box and include a handle portion extending at least partially towards the opposed second end of the beehive and pivotable between raised and lowered position relative to the lower hive box and a support portion extending beyond the first end of the beehive for supporting the upper hive box relative to a support surface when pivoted relative to the lower hive box. Preferably, the handle portion may extend beyond the opposed second end of the beehive.

[00104] The at least one handle member may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[00105] Generally, the at least one handle member may include a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween, preferably in a linear orientation.

[00106] In some embodiments, the pair of opposed ends may include the mounting end configured to be mounted to one of the at least one support frame member and the opposed second end of the upper hive box and an opposed outer end defining the handle portion.

[00107] In other embodiments, the pair of opposed ends may include a first outer end defining the handle portion and an opposed second outer end defining the support portion.

[00108] The elongate body may be of tubular or solid construction.

[00109] The elongate body may be defined by at least one sidewall extending between the opposed ends.

[00110] In some embodiments, the at least one sidewall may be curved such that the elongate body has a substantially circular profile shape.

[0011 1] In other embodiments, the elongate body may be defined by four sidewalls extending between the opposed ends such that the elongate body has a substantially rectangular profile shape. The four sidewalls may include an upper wall, an opposed lower wall and opposed sidewalls.

[00112] The at least one handle member may be of unitary construction or may be formed from two or more handle member pieces joined together, typically the latter.

[00113] A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the handle member functions as a class II lever. Further, the person skilled in the art will appreciate that a length of the at least one handle member inversely corresponds to an amount of effort or force required to pivot an upper hive box to the raised position. As such, a longer handle member will require less effort or force than a shorter handle member to pivot an upper hive box to the raised position.

[00114] The handle member may have a length of about 100mm, about 150mm, about

200mm, about 250mm, about 300mm, about 350mm, about 400mm, about 450mm, about

500mm, about 550mm, about 600mm, about 650mm, about 700mm, about 750mm, about

800mm, about 850mm, about 900mm, about 950mm, about 1 ,000mm, about 1 ,050mm, about 1 ,100mm, about 1 ,150mm or about 1 ,200mm or more. Typically, the at least one handle member may have a length ranging from about 100mm to about 1 ,020mm.

[00115] In some embodiments, the at least one handle member may have an adjustable length, such as, e.g., a telescopic or a sliding arrangement.

[00116] The handle portion of the at least one handle member may be configured for a user to apply an upward or downward force to pivot the handle member and the upper hive box between the raised and lowered positions, respectively.

[00117] In some embodiments, the handle portion may include a grip for assisting a user in gripping and holding the handle portion.

[00118] The grip may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials.

[00119] For example, in some such embodiments, the grip may include a smoothened and shaped handle portion or may include a handle portion having one or more contours defined therein facilitating the gripping of the handle portion by a user.

[00120] In other such embodiments, the grip may include a rubber or plastic grip fitted at least partially over the outer end and the handle portion.

[00121] In some embodiments, the mounting end of the at least one handle member may be pivotally mountable to the at least one support frame member in any suitable way that allows the handle member to pivot about the mounting end and the handle portion to be pivotable between the raised and lowered positions.

[00122] Likewise, the mounting end of the handle member may be mountable to any suitable location along a length of the at least one support frame member, preferably to a location at or near the second end of the at least one support frame member. [00123] The mounting end of the handle member may be directly or indirectly pivotally mountable to the at least one support frame member, preferably indirectly via a handle member mount.

[00124] The handle member mount may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be connectable to the at least one support frame member in any suitable way.

[00125] Typically, the handle member mount may include a bracket connectable to the at least one support frame member, preferably the handle member mount may be the corner bracket operatively associated with the second end of the at least one support frame member and configured to fit about a corner of the lower hive box.

[00126] In some embodiments, the mounting end of the handle member may have a bearing and the handle member mount may include a pivot pin for pinning the bearing of the handle member to the mount.

[00127] In other embodiments, the mounting end of the handle member and the at least one support frame member may be hingedly connectable by at least one hinge or part thereof such that the handle member may be pivotable between the raised and lowered positions, preferably about an axis of the at least one hinge.

[00128] The at least one hinge may be of any suitable size, shape and form. For example, the hinge may be a barrel hinge, a pivot hinge, a flag hinge or a living hinge.

[00129] In such embodiments, the at least one hinge may include a first hinge member defined on one of the mounting end of the handle member and the handle member mount of the at least one support frame member and a second hinge member hingedly connectable to the first hinge member and defined on the other of the mounting end of the handle member and the handle member mount of the at least one support frame member.

[00130] In some such embodiments, the first hinge member may include a hook or clamp defining a shaped groove and the second hinge member may include a pivot pin configured to be at least partially received in the shaped groove to hingedly connect the mounting end of the handle member to the handle member mount of the at least one support frame member.

[00131] In other such embodiments, the first hinge member may include a bush having a central aperture and the second hinge member may include a pivot pin configured to extend at least partially through the central aperture to hingedly connect the mounting end of the handle member to the handle member mount of the at least one support frame member. [00132] In preferred embodiments, the handle member may be releasably mountable to the at least one support frame member so that the handle member may be readily disassembled from the lifting device when not being used.

[00133] In such embodiments, one of the handle member mount and the mounting end may include a hook defining a shaped groove with an entrance and the other of the handle member mount and the mounting end may include pivot pin configured to slide into the shaped groove via the entrance and define the single horizontal pivot axis about which the handle member may pivot.

[00134] Preferably, the handle member mount may be defined in an upper edge portion of the sidewall abutting portion of the corner bracket operatively associated with the second end of the at least one support frame member. The upper edge portion may define an upward facing hook extending forward of the junction between the upper and lower hive boxes. The hook may define an upward facing entrance in the upper edge portion and a shaped groove extending at least partially towards the second or front end of the beehive.

[00135] Likewise, the mounting end of the at least one handle member may include a flange portion extending downwards from an outer sidewall of the handle member at the mounting end and having a pivot pin extending outwardly therefrom.

[00136] In use, the pivot pin of the mounting end may be configured to be aligned relative to the upward facing entrance of the handle member mount and slid into the shaped groove when the handle member is connected to the upper hive box to define the single horizontal pivot axis about which the handle member (and a connected upper hive box) may pivot relative to the lower hive box.

[00137] In other embodiments in which the handle member is mounted to the upper hive box at or near the opposed second end, the at least one support frame member may further include an upper hive box mount hingedly connectable to the at least one support frame member by at least one hinge or part thereof such that the upper hive box may be pivotable relative to the lower hive box between the raised and lowered positions, preferably about an axis of the at least one hinge.

[00138] In such embodiments, the upper hive box mount may be configured to be releasably mountable to the upper hive box at the first end at or near the junction between the upper hive box and the lower hive box.

[00139] The at least one hinge may be of any suitable size, shape and form. For example, the hinge may be a barrel hinge, a pivot hinge, a flag hinge or a living hinge.

[00140] In such embodiments, the at least one hinge may include a first hinge member defined on one of the upper hive box mount and the at least one support frame member and a second hinge member hingedly connectable to the first hinge member and defined on the other of the upper hive box mount and the at least one support frame member.

[00141] In some such embodiments, the first hinge member may include a hook or clamp defining a shaped groove and the second hinge member may include a pivot pin configured to be at least partially received in the shaped groove to hingedly connect the upper hive box mount and the at least one support frame member.

[00142] In other such embodiments, the first hinge member may include a bush having a central aperture and the second hinge member may include a pivot pin configured to extend at least partially through the central aperture to hingedly connect the upper hive box mount and the at least one support frame member.

[00143] As indicated, the at least one handle member is connectable to the upper hive box so that the upper hive box is pivotable together with the at least one handle member between the raised and lowered positions.

[00144] The at least one handle member may be connectable to the upper hive box in any suitable way, preferably releasably.

[00145] The at least one handle member may be connectable to any suitable location of the upper hive box.

[00146] The at least one handle member may be directly or indirectly connectable to the upper hive box.

[00147] For example, in some embodiments, the at least one handle member may be indirectly connectable to the upper hive box via an upper hive box mount.

[00148] In some such embodiments, the upper hive box mount may include a bracket operatively associated with the at least one handle member and having one or more openings defined thereon each for receiving a mechanical fastener therethrough for fastening the bracket to the upper hive box.

[00149] In other such embodiments, the bracket of the upper hive box mount may include one or more shaped openings configured to fit over one or more protrusions as previously described.

[00150] In other embodiments, the at least one handle member and the upper hive box may be connectable by a connecting mechanism or parts thereof. The connecting mechanism or parts thereof may or may not be of integral formation with each of the at least handle member and the upper hive box.

[00151] The connecting mechanism may include a first part associated with a sidewall of the upper hive box and a second part connectable to the first part associated with an inner sidewall of the at least one handle member. The connecting mechanism may include mateable male and female portions that couple together as previously described.

[00152] In other embodiments, the at least one handle member may include a clamping arrangement configured to clamp about the sidewall of the upper hive box.

[00153] The clamping arrangement may include a pair of opposed clamping members configured to clamp about rear and front corners of a sidewall of the upper hive box. The pair of opposed clamping members may include a first clamping member located at or near the mounting end of the at least one handle member and a second clamping member located at least partially along a length of an inner sidewall of the at least one handle member.

[00154] In some embodiments, the second clamping member may be movably mounted to the inner sidewall of the at least one handle member to move the second clamping member towards and apart from the first clamping member to adjust a clamping force applied to the upper hive box positioned therebetween.

[00155] The second clamping member may be movably mounted to the inner sidewall in any suitably way.

[00156] For example, in some such embodiments, the inner sidewall of the at least one handle member may include a number of openings defined thereon and spaced along a length of the inner sidewall and the second clamping member may include one or more pegs or protrusions for being inserted into a corresponding opening.

[00157] In other such embodiments, the inner sidewall of the at least one handle may include a rail or track extending at least partially along the length of the inner sidewall and the second clamping member may be slidably mounted to the rail or track and be configured to be slidably moveable relative thereto.

[00158] In other embodiments, the at least one handle member may further include an actuating mechanism for moving the second clamping member towards and away from the first clamping member. The actuating mechanism may preferably enable a clamping force applied to the upper hive box to be adjusted.

[00159] Any suitable type of mechanism may be used. The actuating mechanism may be manually actuated or by using a drive. Movement may be linear, although non-linear movement, such as, e.g., rotary movement, is also envisaged.

[00160] If manually actuated, the actuating mechanism may include one or more of a lever, a ram, an operable handle, a sliding arrangement, a hinged arrangement or pivoting arrangement for moving the second clamping member relative to the first clamping member.

[00161] If using a drive, the actuating mechanism may include a linear actuator (e.g., a hydraulic or pneumatic ram) or an electric motor for moving the second clamping member relative to the first clamping member.

[00162] The opposed clamping members may be of any suitable size, shape and construction suitably adapted to clamp the upper hive box therebetween.

[00163] Typically, the clamping members may each include a clamping surface configured to clamp about a sidewall of the upper hive box, and preferably abut with an end wall portion immediately adjacent the rear and front corners.

[00164] The first clamping member may be defined by an inwardly extending portion of the mounting end configured to at least partially hook about the front corner of the upper hive box. The first clamping member may be integrally formed with the mounting end.

[00165] In preferred embodiments, the second clamping member may be defined by an inner end of an outer handle member portion configured to be fastened relative to an inner handle member portion to provide a clamping force.

[00166] The inner handle member portion may include the mounting end and an opposed outer end portion. The outer handle member portion may include an inner end portion defining the second clamping member and an opposed outer said handle portion.

[00167] The inner and outer handle member portions may be configured to be fastened together by a latch clamp or the like such that the inner end portion of the outer handle member portion abuts the second end or rear end of the upper hive box and is held in abutment while applying a clamping force against the second end or rear end of the upper hive box. [00168] In some embodiments, the lifting device may include more than one handle member.

[00169] For example, the lifting device may include a pair of handle members extending forward from and connecting to both opposed sidewalls of the upper hive box. The pair of handle members may pivotally mount to support frame members connected to either side of the lower hive box at the first or front end.

[00170] In some embodiments, the lifting device may further include an upper hive box support for supporting the upper hive box.

[00171] The upper hive box support may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[00172] For example, in embodiments in which the upper hive box is pivoted relative to the lower hive box, the upper hive box support in some embodiments may include a protrusion extending upwardly from an upper wall of the at least one support frame member and having a support surface defined thereon for supporting an end wall of the upper hive box when in the raised position.

[00173] In other embodiments, the upper hive box support may include a bracket extending upwardly from the at least one support frame member at a location between the opposed ends. The bracket may include a support surface defined on an upper portion thereof for supporting an end wall of the upper hive box when in the raised position.

[00174] The bracket may be coupled or joined to the support frame member using conventional welding techniques and/or with one or more mechanical fasteners.

[00175] In embodiments in which the upper hive box is pivoted and slid relative to the lower hive box atop the at least one support frame member, the upper hive box support in some embodiments may include one or more wheels, rollers, plain bearings or the like mounted on the upper wall of the at least one support frame member for receiving and facilitating movement of the upper hive box along the at least one support frame member.

[00176] In other embodiments, the upper hive box support may include a carriage or slide mount slidably mounted to the upper wall of the at least one support frame and configured to be slidable therealong. The carriage or slide mount may include a platform atop of which the upper hive box may be received.

[00177] The carriage or slide mount and the at least one support frame member may be slidably mounted together in any suitable way. [00178] For example, in some such embodiments, the carriage or slide mount may include one or more roller assemblies and the at least one support frame member may include a guide track extending at least partially along the upper wall for guiding passage of the roller assemblies of the carriage or the slide mount therealong.

[00179] In embodiments in which the lifting device includes a pair of support frame members, upper hive box supports may be provided on one or both of the pair.

[00180] In embodiments in which the at least one handle member includes a support portion, the support portion may include a foot operatively associated with the second outer end, or the outer end of an outermost telescopic portion, for supporting the support portion relative to a support surface. The foot may be formed from rubber, plastic or metal material or materials.

[00181] The foot may include a flanged lower portion for at least partially stabilising the at least one handle member relative to the support surface.

[00182] As indicated, in some embodiments the device includes at least one handle assembly mountable to the beehive at the opposed second end for at least partially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[00183] The handle assembly may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials, typically metal and/or plastic material or materials.

[00184] The handle assembly may include a separating mechanism for separating and moving the upper hive box away from and towards the lower hive box and at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box for at least pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box. In some such embodiments, the at least one handle member may additionally be operatively associated with the separating mechanism for actuating the separating mechanism.

[00185] In other embodiments, the device may include at least one handle member releasably mountable to the upper hive box and extending beyond the opposed second end of the upper hive box and a separating mechanism for separating and at least partially moving the upper hive box away from and towards the lower hive box.

[00186] The separating mechanism may at least partially separate the upper hive box from the lower hive box any suitable distance as measured between the opposing edges of the upper and lower hive boxes at the opposed second end. For example, the separating mechanism may separate the upper hive box from the lower hive box a distance of about 5mm, about 10mm, about 15mm, about 20mm, about 25mm, about 30mm, about 35mm, about 40mm, about 45mm, about 50mm, about 55mm, about 60mm, about 65mm, about 70mm, about 75mm, about 80mm, about 85mm, about 90mm, about 95mm or even about 100mm, as measured between the opposing edges at the opposed second end. Preferably, the separating mechanism may at least partially separate the upper hive box from the lower hive box a distance of from about 20mm to about 50mm as measured between the opposing edges at the opposed second end.

[00187] Any suitable type of separating mechanism may be used. The separating mechanism may be manually actuated. Movement may be linear, non-linear or any combination thereof.

[00188] For example, the separating mechanism may include one or more of a lever, ram, operable handle, sliding arrangement (e.g., two or more plate members), hinged arrangement or pivoting arrangement for moving the upper hive box apart from and towards the lower hive box.

[00189] The separating mechanism may include one or more biasing mechanisms so that movement apart works against a force of the biasing mechanism, so that the upper hive box moves towards the lower hive box under the force of the biasing mechanism.

[00190] Conversely, movement of the upper hive box apart from the lower hive box may work under the force of the biasing mechanism, so that the upper hive box moves towards the lower hive box against the force of the biasing mechanism.

[00191] Advantageously, the separating mechanism may further function as a dampener when the upper hive box is lowered relative to the lower hive box.

[00192] In some embodiments, the separating mechanism may include a pair of separating members configured to be inserted between the upper and lower hive boxes and an actuating mechanism for moving the separating members apart from one another to separate the hive boxes.

[00193] In some such embodiments, the separating mechanism may include a cam arrangement including the at least one handle member connected to a cam and configured to move the separating members apart from one another when the handle is moved relative to the cam.

[00194] In other embodiments, the separating may include one or more sliding rods contained in the opposed second end of one of the lower edge of the upper hive box and the upper edge of the lower hive box and an actuating mechanism operatively associated with the one or more sliding rods and configured to slidably move the rods between a retracted position in which the rods are entirely contained within the opposed second end and an extended position in which rods extend proud of the one of the lower edge of the upper hive box and the upper edge of the lower hive box.

[00195] The separating mechanism may include a key opening defined in the end of the one of the upper hive box and the lower hive box and configured to receive a key therein for actuating the actuating mechanism between the retracted and extended positions.

[00196] In use, the one or more sliding rods may be actuated between the extended position and the retracted position for moving the upper hive box apart from and towards the lower hive box, respectively.

[00197] In other embodiments, the assembly may include a bracket mountable to the upper hive box, the at least one handle member pivotally coupled to the bracket and moveable between a folded position and an extended position in which the handle member extends perpendicularly to the opposed second end.

[00198] In such embodiments, the separating mechanism may include a chisel point or wedge operatively associated with a proximal end of the at least one handle member and configured to be driven between the upper and lower hive boxes, when the at least one handle member is rotated to the extended position.

[00199] In yet other embodiments, the separating mechanism may generally include an extendible and retractable arrangement configured to be actuated between and against a pair of protrusions extending from the upper hive box and the lower hive box, preferably at or near the opposed second end.

[00200] In use, the extended position may correspond to a separating position in which the upper hive box is at least partially separated from the lower hive box and the retracted position may correspond to a resting position in which the upper hive box rests atop the lower hive box.

[00201] In some embodiments, the assembly may include at least one bracket configured to be releasably mountable to the upper hive box and define a handle mount, the at least one handle member may be pivotally coupled to the mount and a separating mechanism in the form of a cam operatively associated with a base of the handle and configured to be rotated together with the handle member. In use, the cam may be configured to act against a protrusion protruding from the lower hive box such that rotation of the handle member may cause rotation of the cam and at least partial movement of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box as the cam acts against the protrusion.

[00202] In other embodiments, the assembly may include a pair of sliding rod or brackets configured to be releasably mountable to the upper hive box, an actuating mechanism for sliding the rods or brackets relative to each other between extended and retracted positions, and the handle member operatively associated with the actuating mechanism and the upper hive box.

[00203] In such embodiments, the pair of sliding rods or brackets may be configured to abut against one or more lower protrusions protruding from the lower hive box such that movement of the rods or brackets to the extended position may press the rods or brackets against the lower protrusions and at least partially move the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[00204] In yet other embodiments, the assembly may include at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box and a separating mechanism including a pair of hinged plates or rods moveable between an extended arrangement and a partially folded arrangement. In use, said pair of hinged plates or rods may be mounted between protrusions protruding from the upper hive box and the lower hive box and may be respectively moved between the extended arrangement and the partially folded arrangement to move the upper hive box away from and towards the lower hive box.

[00205] In further embodiments, the assembly may include at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box and a lever member configured to be slid between upper and lower protrusions to lever the upper and lower protrusions away from each other and thus the upper hive box away from the lower hive box.

[00206] In some preferred embodiments, the at least one handle assembly may include a pair of brackets including: a first bracket mountable to the upper hive box; a second bracket slidable relative to the first bracket between a retracted position and an extended position; and at least one handle member pivotally coupled to the first bracket, slidably mounted to the second bracket and pivotable relative to the first bracket between a folded position and an extended position for driving vertical movement of the second bracket relative to the first bracket and pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[00207] The first bracket may preferably be a corner bracket as previously described. Preferably, the sidewall abutting portion may extend at least partially past a junction between the lower and upper hive boxes, preferably to define a handle member mounting portion to which the at least one handle member is pivotally mounted. [00208] The second bracket may include a sidewall abutting portion and may be configured to be slidable relative to the sidewall abutting portion of the first bracket.

[00209] The at least one handle member may include a pivot point at which the handle member may be pivotally mounted to the handle member mounting portion, a handle portion extending away from the pivot point and pivotable between the folded and extended positions and a sliding portion extending inward from the pivot point (in an opposite direction to the handle member) and slidably mounted to the second bracket. In use, the at least one handle member may be configured to slide the second bracket to the extended position when the handle member is in the extended position and a retracted position when the handle member is in the folded position. In the extended position, the second bracket may abut against a protrusion protruding from the lower hive box for at least partially separating the upper hive box away therefrom.

[00210] In this embodiment the at least one handle member may dually function as a class I lever for sliding the second bracket relative to the protrusion protruding from the lower hive box for at least partially separating the upper hive box away therefrom.

[0021 1] In other preferred embodiments, the at least one handle assembly may include at least one bracket mountable to the upper hive box, a separating mechanism for moving the upper hive box apart from and towards the lower hive box and at least one handle member pivotally coupled to the bracket and rotatable between a folded position and an extended position for actuating the separating mechanism and pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[00212] The at least one bracket may be mountable to the upper hive box in any suitable way, preferably to, or near, the second end of the upper hive box, more preferably releasably to, or near, the second end of the upper hive box.

[00213] In some such embodiments, the at least one bracket may include a plate portion configured to abut against an end and/or side of the upper hive box with one or more openings defined therein, each opening configured to receive a mechanical fastener therethrough to fasten the plate portion and the at least one handle assembly to the end and/or side of the upper hive box.

[00214] In other embodiments, the at least one bracket of the at least one handle assembly and the upper hive box may be connectable by a connecting mechanism or part thereof. The connecting mechanism or parts thereof may or may not be of integral formation with each of the bracket and the upper hive box. [00215] In some such embodiments, the connecting mechanism may include a first part associated with the bracket of the at least one handle assembly and a second part connectable to the first part and associated with the end and/or side of the upper hive box.

[00216] The connecting mechanism may include mateable male and female portions that couple together, such as, e.g., by a threaded connection, an interference connection, a friction fit-type connection or a bayonet-type connection.

[00217] In some such embodiments, the first part of the connecting mechanism associated with, or forming part of, the bracket of the at least one handle assembly may include a male formation configured to be inserted into, or coupled with, a female formation of the second part of the connecting mechanism associated with, or forming part of, the end and/or side of the upper hive box.

[00218] Conversely, in other such embodiments, the first part of the connecting mechanism may include a female formation configured to at least partially receive, or be coupled with, a male formation of the second part of the connecting mechanism.

[00219] In other embodiments, the end wall and/or an adjacent sidewall of the upper hive box may include one or more protrusions protruding outwardly therefrom and the bracket of the at least one handle assembly may have one or more shaped openings defined thereon and configured to fit over the one or more protrusions and connecting the at least one handle assembly to the upper hive box, preferably releasably.

[00220] Each protrusion may be of a size, shape and construction as previously described.

[00221] The shaped openings may be of any suitable size and shape to receive at least an enlarged head or other type of retaining end of the protrusion therethrough and engage about a neck portion of the protrusion.

[00222] In some such embodiments, the shaped openings may each have an inverted key- hole-shape including an enlarged lower portion for receiving the enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough and a narrower upper portion configured to slide around, and be supported atop, the neck portion of the protrusion.

[00223] In other such embodiments, the shaped openings may be defined in a side edge of the bracket and may include an elongate slot configured to slide around and about a neck portion of a protrusion, preferably in a horizontal orientation.

[00224] In some embodiments, the bracket may be configured to abut against and be coupled to the end wall of the upper hive box. In such embodiments, the protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall, preferably the opposed second end wall of the upper hive box, more preferably the opposed second end wall of the upper hive box adjacent an adjacent sidewall.

[00225] In other embodiments, the bracket may be configured to abut against and be coupled to a sidewall of the upper hive box. In such embodiments, the protrusions may protrude outwardly from the sidewall, preferably adjacent the opposed second end wall of the upper hive box.

[00226] In preferred embodiments, the bracket may be a corner bracket configured to at least partially fit about a corner defined between the opposed second end wall and an adjacent sidewall of the upper hive box. In such embodiments, the protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall and/or the sidewall, preferably the end wall.

[00227] The corner bracket may have a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit about the corner and may include an end wall abutting portion and a sidewall abutting portion orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutting portion. The corner bracket may extend longitudinally at least partially along a height of the upper hive box. In preferred such embodiments, the sidewall abutting portion may extend at least partially past a junction between the lower and upper hive boxes, preferably to define a handle member mounting portion to which the at least one handle member is pivotally mounted.

[00228] In such embodiments, the at least one handle member may include a pivot point at which the handle member is pivotally mounted to the handle member mounting portion, a handle portion extending away from the pivot point and rotatable between the folded and extended positions and a beak extending inward from the pivot point and configured to act against a protrusion protruding outwards from the lower hive box when the at least one handle member is pivoted to the extended position.

[00229] In such embodiments, the at least one handle member may dually function as a class I lever for levering the bracket relative to the protrusion protruding from the lower hive box for at least partially separating the upper hive box away therefrom.

[00230] The protrusion may be as previously described and may preferably protrude from a sidewall of the lower hive box at or near the opposed second end and the junction between the upper and lower hive boxes.

[00231] In some embodiments, the at least one handle assembly or the separating mechanism may further include a retaining mechanism for retaining the separating mechanism in a separating position.

[00232] Any suitable type of retaining mechanism may be used.

[00233] The retaining mechanism may be of any suitable size, shape and form.

[00234] The retaining mechanism may be of integral or separate construction with the handle member and the bracket of the handle assembly, preferably the latter.

[00235] For example, in some embodiments, the handle member may be locked relative to the bracket in the extended position by a locking pin extending through co-aligned holes defined in the handle and the bracket. The locking pin may be a conventional locking pin or may be a spring-loaded locking pin.

[00236] In other embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a first past associated with one of the handle member and the bracket and a second part connectable to the first part and associated with the other of the handle member and the bracket.

[00237] The retaining mechanism may include mateable male and female portions that couple together, such as, e.g., a threaded connection, an interference connection, or a friction fit-type connection.

[00238] In other embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a clamping device for clamping the support portions relative to one another, such as, e.g., a quick release clamp or clip assembly.

[00239] In yet other embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a ratchet and pawl arrangement.

[00240] For example, in some such embodiments, the bracket may include a ratchet adjacent the handle member mounting portion and the handle member may include a spring-loaded pawl. In such embodiments, the pawl may engage with the ratchet when the handle is rotated from the folded position to the extended position to thereby retain the handle in the extended position and the separating mechanism in the separating position.

[00241] In such embodiments, the retaining mechanism may be disengaged by separating the pawl from the ratchet. Alternatively, the retaining mechanism may further include a release mechanism for temporarily levering the pawl clear of the ratchet.

[00242] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fitting a separating and lifting device relative to a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of the beehive, said method including: mounting at least one support frame member to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; supporting the support frame relative to a support surface with a support extending from the at least one support frame member; mounting at least one handle assembly to the upper hive box at an opposed second end of the beehive, said at least one handle assembly including a separating mechanism for at least partially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box and extending beyond the opposed second end of the beehive for pivoting the upper hive box between raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box.

[00243] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fitting a separating and lifting device relative to a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of the beehive, said method including: mounting at least one support frame member to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; supporting the support frame relative to a support surface with a support extending from the at least one support frame member; pivotally mounting at least one handle member to the at least one support frame member, said at least one handle member having a handle portion end extending beyond an opposed second end of the beehive pivotable between raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box; and connecting the at least one handle member to the upper hive box so that the upper hive box pivots together with the handle portion between the raised and lowered positions.

[00244] The methods may include one or more features or characteristics of the separating and lifting devices as hereinbefore described.

[00245] For example, the mounting may include aligning the shaped openings of the corner bracket of the support frame member relative to the protrusions protruding from the sidewall of the lower hive box. The mounting may further include fitting the shaped openings over the corresponding protrusions.

[00246] The supporting may include positioning the support in an erect position relative to a support surface. The supporting may further include adjusting a height of the support such that the at least one support frame member extends forward from the front end of the lower hive box to the support in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the support.

[00247] Likewise, the mounting may include aligning the shaped openings of the corner bracket of the at least one handle assembly relative to the protrusions protruding from the end walls and/or sidewall of the upper hive box. The mounting may further include fitting the shaped openings around the corresponding protrusions.

[00248] The pivotally mounting may include aligning the mounting end of the at least one handle member relative to the handle member mount of the at least one support frame member, preferably such that the first clamping member is positioned about a front corner of the upper hive box.

[00249] The connecting may include positioning the outer handle member portion relative to the inner handle member portion such that the second clamping member provided at the inner end of the outer handle member portion abuts with the front end wall of the upper hive box.

[00250] The outer handle member portion may then be fastened relative to the inner handle member portion with a latch clamp or the like so as to provide a clamping force between the first and second clamping members and connect the handle member to the upper hive box.

[00251] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box with a separating and lifting device according to the first aspect, said method including: rotating the at least one handle member of the at least one handle assembly to the extended position to actuate the separating mechanism and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box; and lifting the at least one handle member to lift and pivot the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[00252] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box with a separating and lifting device according to any one of the second to fourth aspects, said method including: pivoting the handle portion of the at least one handle member of the lifting device to the raised position relative to the lower hive box such that the upper hive box is lifted together with the at least one handle member relative to the lower hive box.

[00253] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[00254] In some embodiments, the method may include pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box between the raised and lowered positions.

[00255] In other embodiments, the lifting may include lifting, pivoting and sliding the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box, preferably clear of the lower hive box, more preferably atop the at least one support frame member.

[00256] In other embodiments, the method may further include sliding the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box such that the upper hive box is supported atop the at least one support frame member, preferably entirely supported.

[00257] In such embodiments, and responsive to the upper hive box being lifted and/or pivoted, the upper hive box may be slid along the at least one support frame member, preferably at least partially towards the support.

[00258] By pivoting and sliding the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box, multiple stacked upper hive boxes may be safely separated and lifted relative to the lower hive box without the need for individually separating the multiple stacked upper hive boxes.

[00259] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[00260] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[00261] Figure 1 is a line drawing showing a side view of a separating and lifting device according to an embodiment of the present invention fitted to a beehive;

[00262] Figure 2 is a line drawing showing a forward upper perspective view of the separating and lifting device fitted to the beehive as shown in Figure 1 ;

[00263] Figure 3 is a line drawing showing another forward upper perspective view of the separating and lifting device and beehive as shown in Figure 2 with an upper hive box shown at least partially raised relative to a lower hive box of the beehive;

[00264] Figure 4 is a line drawing showing another forward upper perspective view of the separating and lifting device and beehive as shown in Figures 1 to 3 with the upper hive box shown in a raised position relative to the lower hive box;

[00265] Figure 5 is a line drawing showing a magnified perspective view of a lower part of a support of the separating and lifting device as shown in Figure 1 to 4;

[00266] Figure 6A is a line drawing showing a side view of the separating and lifting device fitted to a beehive as shown in Figures 1 to 4 with the upper hive box shown in the raised position relative to the lower hive box;

[00267] Figure 6B is a line drawing showing a magnified sectional view of part of the separating and lifting device as shown in Figure 6A;

[00268] Figure 7A is a line drawing showing an upper sectional view of the separating and lifting device fitted to a beehive as shown in Figures 1 to 4;

[00269] Figure 7B is a line drawing showing a magnified sectional view of part of the separating and lifting device as shown in Figure 7A;

[00270] Figure 8 is a line drawing showing an upper perspective view of a separating and lifting device according to another embodiment of the present invention fitted to a beehive;

[00271] Figure 9 is a line drawing showing a side view of the device as shown in Figure 8 with the upper hive box shown in a lowered position relative to the lower hive box;

[00272] Figure 10 is a line drawing showing a side view of the device as shown in Figures 8 and 9 with the upper hive box shown in a separated position relative to the lower hive box;

[00273] Figure 11 is a line drawing showing a side view of the device as shown in Figures 8 to 10 with the upper hive box shown in the raised position relative to the lower hive box;

[00274] Figure 12 is a line drawing showing a side view of an alternative use of the device as shown in Figure 8 in which the upper hive box is separated, lifted and slid relative to the lower hive box;

[00275] Figure 13 is a line drawing showing another side view of the alternative use shown in Figure 12 save that the upper hive box include multiple hive boxes in a stacked arrangement separated, lifted and slid relative to the lower hive box;

[00276] Figure 14 is a line drawing showing a side view of a separating and lifting device according to another embodiment of the present invention fitted to a beehive with the upper hive box shown in the lowered position relative to the lower hive box; and

[00277] Figure 15 is a line drawing show a side view of the device as shown in Figure 14 with the upper hive box shown in the raised position relative to the lower hive box.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00278] Figures 1 to 5, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B show a separating and lifting device (100) and parts thereof according to a first embodiment of the present invention fitted to a beehive (900; not shown in Figure 5) for use in lifting an upper hive box (910; not shown in Figure 5) relative to a lower hive box (920; not shown in Figures 5, 7A and 7B).

[00279] Referring to Figure 1 , the separating and lifting device (100) includes a support (1 10) for supporting the device (100) relative to a support surface; and a pair of support frame members (120) extending from the support (1 10) to a front end (902) of the beehive (900) and being releasably mountable to a lower hive box (920).

[00280] The device (100) further includes a pair handle members (130) releasably connectable to an upper hive box (910) and having a mounting end (140) pivotally mountable to the support frame members (120). The handle members (130) extend rearward of the beehive (900) to define handle portions (136) that are pivotable between a shown lowered position and a raised position, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, for lifting and pivoting the upper hive box (910) relative to the lower hive box (920).

[00281] The beehive (900) is an artificial structure for housing a honey bee nest. As indicated, the beehive (900) includes a lower hive box (920) and an upper hive box (910) stacked atop the lower hive box (920).

[00282] The lower hive box (920) is commonly referred to as a “brood box” and is where the queen resides and lays her eggs. Some beehives may include more than one brood box.

[00283] The upper hive box (910) is commonly referred to as a “honey super” and is where honey is stored. Again, some beehives may include more than one honey super.

[00284] Each hive box (910, 920) includes an open top end and an opposed open bottom end. The open ends are interconnected by a front end wall (912, 922), an opposed rear end wall (914, 924) and opposed sidewalls (916, 926) to define a generally rectangular profile shape.

[00285] The front end walls (912, 922) correspond to a front end (902) of the beehive (900). The rear end walls (914, 924) correspond to a rear end (904) of the beehive (900). The opposed sidewalls (916, 926) define the sides (906) of the beehive (900).

[00286] The beehive (900) further includes a bottom board defining an entrance (908) for the bees and atop of which the lower hive box (920) is stacked, a hive stand (930) for supporting the beehive (900) atop a support surface, and a top cap (940) for placement atop the upper hive box (910) for protecting the beehive (900) from the elements.

[00287] Referring briefly to Figures 2 to 4, the separating and lifting device (100) enables the upper hive box (910) to be pivoted relative to the lower hive box (920) about a single horizontal pivot axis (P) over a range of movement of about 90° ranging from a lowered position as shown in Figure 2, an intermediate position as shown in Figure 3 and the raised position as shown in Figure 4.

[00288] Referring back to Figure 1 , the separating and lifting device (100) is formed from durable and strong material or materials, such as, e.g., plastic, wood or metal material or materials.

[00289] As indicated, the device (100) includes a support (1 10) for supporting the device (100) relative to a support surface and for stabilising the beehive (900) while the upper hive box (910) is pivoted to the raised position relative to the lower hive box (920).

[00290] The support (1 10) includes a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body (1 12) extending longitudinally therebetween. The opposed ends include a lower end (114) and an opposed upper end (1 16).

[00291] The lower end (1 14) is configured to engage with a support surface via a foot (150). The foot (150) includes a flanged lower portion (152) for stabilising the support (110) relative to the support surface.

[00292] The opposed upper end (116) is connectable to the pair of support frame members (120) via bracket.

[00293] The support (110) is of tubular construction and includes three telescopic portions (1 11 ) slidable relative to one another between a retracted position and an extended position to thereby adjust a height of the support (1 10).

[00294] Referring to Figure 5, the three telescopic portions (11 1 ) include an upper telescopic portion (1 11 A), a middle telescopic portion (1 11 B) and a lower telescopic portion (11 1 C).

[00295] The middle telescopic portion (1 11 B) is configured to be telescopically received in a lower end of the upper telescopic portion (1 1 1 A) and a lower telescopic portion (1 11 C) is configured to be telescopically received in a lower end of the middle telescopic portion (1 11 B).

[00296] Retaining mechanisms (160) are associated with the lower ends of the upper and middle telescopic portions (1 11 A, 1 11 B) for retaining the telescopic portions (1 11 ) relative to one another and the support (1 10) at a set height.

[00297] The retaining mechanism (160) includes a collar (162) fitted to the lower ends of the upper and middle telescopic portions (1 11 A, 11 1 B) and a locking ring (164) through which the middle and lower telescopic portions (11 1 B, 11 1 C) extend therethrough. Each locking ring (164) is pivotable between a release position in which the middle or lower telescopic portions (11 1 B, 11 1 C) is axially slidable and a locking position in which the locking ring (164) applies an inward force to at least one side of the middle or lower telescopic portions (1 11 B, 1 11 C) to prevent axial movement.

[00298] Each locking ring (164) further includes a release portion (166) configured to be depressed to temporarily pivot the locking ring (164) to the release position. The release portion (166) extends away from the ring (164) and alongside the collar (162). A spring extends between the release portion (166) and the collar (162) to bias the locking ring (164) into the locking position, so that depressing of the release portion (166) to pivot the locking ring (164) to the release position works against a biasing force of the spring.

[00299] Referring back to Figure 1 , the pair of support frame members (120) extend between the support (1 10) and the front end (902) of the beehive (900) for connecting the support (110) to the beehive (900) and for pivotally coupling with the mounting ends (140) of the pair of handle members (130).

[00300] Each support frame member (120) includes a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body (122) extending longitudinally therebetween in a linear orientation.

[00301] The pair of opposed ends include a first end (124) coupled to the support (1 10) and an opposed second end (126) mountable to the lower hive box (920) at the front end (902) of the beehive (900)

[00302] The elongate body (122) is of tubular construction having a substantially rectangular profile shape.

[00303] As previously indicated, the first ends (124) of the support frame members (120) are coupled to the upper end (116) of the support (1 10) via bracket. [00304] Referring to Figure 6A, the opposed second ends (126) each have a corner bracket (170) coupled thereto.

[00305] Referring to Figure 6B, the corner bracket (170) has a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit about the front corners of the lower hive box (920) of the beehive (900). The bracket (170) includes an end wall abutting portion (172) and a sidewall abutting portion (174) orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutting portion (172).

[00306] As shown, the corner bracket (170) extends at least partially along a height of the lower hive box (920) when connected thereto and partially past a junction between the lower and upper hive boxes (910,920).

[00307] Each bracket (170) includes two shaped openings (176) defined in the sidewall abutting portion (174). Each shaped opening (176) has an inverted key hole shape and configured to be fitted over a protrusion protruding outwardly from the sidewall (926) of the lower hive box (920) to connect the bracket (170) and an associated support frame member (120) to the lower hive box (920).

[00308] Each protrusion has an enlarged outer head, and each shaped opening (176) is configured to fit over the enlarged head and slide about and engage with a proximal neck portion of the protrusion.

[00309] Referring back to Figure 1 , the pair of handle members (130) each have a mounting end (140) pivotally mountable to the corner bracket (170) coupled to the second end (126) of an adjacent support frame member (120).

[00310] Each handle member (130) includes a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body (132) extending longitudinally therebetween in a linear orientation.

[0031 1] The opposed ends include the mounting end (140) and an opposed outer end (134) extending rearwardly of the beehive (900) to define the handle portion (136).

[00312] The elongate body (132) is of tubular construction having a substantially rectangular profile shape.

[00313] Each handle member (130) is formed from two handle member portions (131 ) in a sliding arrangement relative to one another for connecting to the upper hive box (910). This will be described later.

[00314] The handle portion (136) of each handle member (130) is configured for a user to apply an upward or downward force to pivot the handle member (130) and the upper hive box (910) connected thereto between the raised and lowered positions, respectively.

[00315] Referring again to Figure 6B, the mounting end (140) of each handle member (130) is releasably mountable to the corner bracket (170) by a handle member mount (142) defined by an upper edge portion of the sidewall abutting portion (174) of the bracket (170).

[00316] The handle member mount (142) includes an upward facing hook (143) extending forward of the junction between the upper and lower hive boxes (910,920) and defining an upward facing entrance (144) and a shaped groove (145) extending at least partially rearward therefrom.

[00317] The mounting end (140) of each handle member (130) includes a downwardly extending flange portion (146) having a pivot pin (148) extending outwardly therefrom.

[00318] In use, the pivot pin (148) of the mounting end (140) is configured to be aligned and received in the upward facing entrance (144) and slid into the shaped groove (145) of the handle member mount (142), when the handle member (130) is connected to the upper hive box (910).

[00319] The pivot pin (148) defines a single horizontal pivot axis about which the handle member (130) and a connected upper hive box (910) can pivot relative to the lower hive box (920).

[00320] Referring to Figure 7A, each handle member (130) is connectable to the upper hive box (910) so that the upper hive box (910) is pivotable together with the handle member (130) between the raised and lowered positions.

[00321] Specifically, the two handle member portions (131 ) forming each handle member (130) are configured to provide a clamping arrangement for clamping about the sidewall (916) of the upper hive box (910).

[00322] The two handle member portions (131 ) include an inner handle member portion (131 A) and a distally located outer handle member portion (131 B) extending rearward of the beehive (900). The outer handle member portion (131 B) is slidable relative to the inner handle member portion (131 A).

[00323] The clamping arrangement includes a first clamping member (182) located at and forming part of the mounting end (140) and configured to at least partially hook about a front corner of the upper hive box (910) and a second clamping member (184) defined by an inner end of the outer handle member portion (131 B). The second clamping member (184) is configured to abut against a rear end (914) of the upper hive box (910).

[00324] Referring to Figure 7B, the outer handle member portion (131 B) is configured to be fastened relative to the inner handle member portion (131 A) with a latch clamp (186) to move the second clamping member (184) towards the first clamping member (182; not shown) and apply a clamping force against the upper hive box (910) received therebetween.

[00325] Referring briefly to Figure 3, the separating and lifting device (100) further includes upper hive box supports (190) extending upwardly from each support frame member (120) for supporting the upper hive box (910) when in the raised position as shown in Figures 4 and 6A.

[00326] Each upper hive box support (190) includes a bracket (192) extending upwardly from a support frame member (120) at a location between the opposed ends. The bracket (192) include a support surface (194) defined on an upper portion thereof for supporting a front end wall (912) of the upper hive box (910) when in the raised position.

[00327] Figures 8 to 13 show a separating and lifting device (100) and parts thereof according to a second embodiment of the present invention fitted to a beehive (900) for use in separating and lifting an upper hive box (910) relative to a lower hive box (920). For convenience, features that are similar or correspond to features of the first embodiment will be referenced with the same reference numerals.

[00328] Referring to Figure 8, in this embodiment the separating and lifting device (100) includes a support (110) for supporting the device (100) relative to a support surface; and a pair of support frame members (120) extending from the support (1 10) to a front end wall (922) of the lower hive box (920) of the beehive (900) and being releasably mountable to the lower hive box (920).

[00329] The device (100) further includes a handle assembly (210) releasably mountable to a rear end wall (914) of the upper hive box (910) of the beehive (900). The handle assembly (210) includes a separating mechanism for at least partially separating the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box (920) and a handle member (220) operatively associated with the separating mechanism and the upper hive box (910) for separating and lifting the upper hive box (910) relative to the lower hive box (920).

[00330] The handle assembly (210) is formed from durable and strong material or materials, such as, e.g., plastic, wood or metal material or materials.

[00331] The separating mechanism enables the upper hive box (910) to be at least partially separated from the lower hive box (920) at least at the rear end (904). The mechanism provides the mechanical advantage required to overcome the propolis gluing the boxes (910, 920) together and pivot the upper hive box (910) relative to the lower hive box (920) between a resting and a separating position. The mechanism separates the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box a distance of between about 20mm to about 50mm at the rear end (904). In use, the mechanism obviates the use of a chisel or other sharp edges instrument to initially separate the boxes (910, 920) and provides access for a user to separate any further propolis gluing the boxes (910, 920) together prior to pivoting the upper hive box (910) to the raised position.

[00332] Advantageously, the separating mechanism further functions as a dampener when the upper hive box (910) is lowered relative to the lower hive box (910).

[00333] The handle assembly (210) includes a corner bracket (230) having a substantially L- shaped profile shape and configured to fit about the rear corners of the upper and lower hive boxes (910, 920). The bracket (230) includes an end wall abutting portion (232) and a sidewall abutting portion (234) orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutting portion (232).

[00334] As shown, the corner bracket (230) extends at least partially along a height of the upper hive box (910) when connected thereto and the sidewall abutting portion (234) extends partially past a junction between the lower and upper hive boxes (910, 920) and beyond the rear end wall (924) of the lower hive box (920) to define a handle member mounting portion (240) to which the handle member (220) is pivotally mounted.

[00335] The bracket (230) includes a shaped opening (236A) defined in the end wall abutting portion (232) and a shaped opening (236B) defined in the sidewall abutting portion (234).

[00336] The shaped opening (236A) in the end wall abutting portion (232) is configured to be slid around a protrusion (882) protruding outwardly from the rear end wall (914) of the upper hive box (910) to connect the bracket (230) and an associated handle member (220) to the upper hive box (910).

[00337] Briefly referring to Figure 10, the shaped opening (236B) in the in the sidewall abutting portion (234) is configured to be slid around a protrusion (884) protruding outwards from the sidewall (926) of the lower hive box (920) at or near the rear end wall (924).

[00338] The handle member (220) and its movement relative to the bracket (230) constitutes the separating mechanism.

[00339] The handle member (220) and includes a pivot point (222) at which the handle member (220) is pivotally mounted to the handle member mounting portion (240), a handle portion (224) extending away from the pivot point (222) and rotatable between folded and extended positions and a beak (226) extending inward from the pivot point (222). The beak (226) is configured to act against protrusion (884) when the handle member (220) is pivoted to the extended position (as shown) to pivot the handle member (220), the bracket (230) and the upper hive box (910) relative to the protrusion (884) and the lower hive box (920) to thereby partially separate the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box (920).

[00340] As shown, the handle member (220) dually functions as a class I lever for levering the bracket (230) relative to the protrusion (884) protruding from the lower hive box (920) for partially separating the upper hive box (910) away therefrom at the rear end (904).

[00341] Referring briefly to Figure 9, the handle assembly (210) further includes a retaining mechanism for retaining the separating mechanism in the separating position. The retaining mechanism includes a ratchet and pawl arrangement.

[00342] Specifically, the handle member mounting portion (240) includes a ratchet (252) defined on an outer side edge thereof and the handle member (220) includes a spring-loaded pawl (254) located in an underside of the handle member (220) with a lever-release (256).

[00343] In use, the spring-loaded pawl (254) engages with the ratchet (252) when the handle member (220) is rotated from the folded position shown to the extended position as shown in Figure 10 to thereby retain the handle member (220) in the extended position and the separating mechanism in the separating position. The retaining mechanism is disengaged by separating the pawl (254) from the ratchet (252) by squeezing the lever-release (256) towards the handle member (220).

[00344] Referring to Figure 12, this figure show an alternative use of the device (100) in which the upper hive box (910) is separated, lifted and slid relative to the lower hive box (920) towards the support (110) and atop the support frame members (120). In this variation, each of the support frame members (120) further includes a slider (260) slidably mounted to the support frame member (120) for receiving and facilitating movement of the upper hive box (910) along the support frame members (120).

[00345] Figure 13 shows an expanded variation of the use shown in Figure 12 in which the upper hive box (910) includes multiple stacked upper hive boxes (910A) separated, lifted and slid relative to the lower hive box (920) using slider (260) atop the support frame members (120). Advantageously, the ability to slide an upper hive box (910) relative to a lower hive box (920) enables multiple upper hive boxes (910A) to be safely separated and slid clear of a lower hive box (920) without the need to individually separate the upper hive boxes (910A). [00346] Figures 14 and 15 show a separating and lifting device (100) and parts thereof according to a third embodiment of the present invention fitted to a beehive (900) for use in separating and lifting an upper hive box (910) relative to a lower hive box (920). For convenience, features that are similar or correspond to features of the first embodiment will be referenced with the same reference numerals.

[00347] In this embodiment the separating and lifting device (100) includes a pair of hinges (310) hingedly connecting the upper hive box (910) to the lower hive box (920) at the front end (902) of the beehive (900) and a handle member (130) releasably mounted via couplings (330) to a sidewall (916) of the upper hive box (910).

[00348] The handle member (130) includes a handle portion (136) extending beyond the rear end (904) of the beehive (900), when in the lowered position as shown in Figure 14, and pivotable between raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box (920) for pivoting the upper hive box (910) relative to the lower hive box (920). The upper hive box (910) is shown in the lowered position in Figure 14 and in the raised position in Figure 15.

[00349] The handle member (130) further includes a support portion (320) extending beyond the front end (902) of the beehive (900), when in the lowered position as shown in Figure 14, for supporting the upper hive box (910) relative to a support surface when pivoted relative to the lower hive box (920) as shown in Figure 15.

[00350] The handle member (130) is formed from two handle member portions (131 ) in a telescopic arrangement so that the length of the handle member (130) is adjustable.

[00351] The support portion (320) further includes a foot (322) for supporting the support portion (320) relative to a support surface. The foot (322) includes a flanged lower portion for stabilizing the handle member (130) relative to the support surface when the pivoted relative to the lower hive box (920) as shown in Figure 15.

[00352] A method of separating and lifting an upper hive box (910) relative to a lower hive box (920) using the separating and lifting device (100) as shown in Figure 8 is now described in detail with reference to Figures 9 to Figure 11 and alternatively with reference to Figures 9, 10 and 12.

[00353] Referring to Figure 9, the separating mechanism is shown in the resting position in which the handle member (220) is in the folded position relative to the bracket (230). In this figure, the separating mechanism is shown in the resting position.

[00354] Referring to Figure 10, the handle member (220) is pivoted relative to the bracket (230) to the extended position in which the beak (226) levers against protrusion (884) to pivot the handle member (220), the bracket (230) and the upper hive box (910) relative to the protrusion (884) and the lower hive box (920) and thereby partially separate the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box (920). In this figure, the separating mechanism is shown in the separating position.

[00355] Additionally, the pawl (254; not visible) has engaged with the ratchet (252; not visible) to retain the handle member (220) in the extended position and the separating mechanism in the separating position.

[00356] Referring to Figure 1 1 , once separated, the upper hive box (910) can then be pivoted using the handle member (220) to the raised position relative to the lower hive box (920). As shown, the upper hive box (910) is supported in the raised position by each support frame member (120).

[00357] Once the hive inspection is complete, the upper hive box (910) can be pivoted back to the lowered position as shown in Figure 10 in a controlled manner using the handle member (220).

[00358] The retaining member can then be disengaged by squeezing the lever-release (256) so that the handle member (220) can be rotated relative to the bracket (230) to the folded position and the separating mechanism may return to the resting position as shown in Figure 9.

[00359] Alternatively, and with reference to Figure 12, once separated, the upper hive box (910) can be pivoted and slid using slider (260) relative to the lower hive box (920) using the handle member (220) towards the support (110) such that the upper hive box (910) is supported atop the support frame members (120).

[00360] Once the hive inspection is complete, the upper hive box (910) can be slid back atop the lower hive box (920) to the position as shown in Figure 10 in a controlled manner using the handle member (220).

[00361 ] The retaining member can then be disengaged by squeezing the lever-release (256) so that the handle member (220) can be rotated relative to the bracket (230) to the folded position and the separating mechanism may return to the resting position as shown in Figure 9.

[00362] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers. [00363] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00364] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

45 CLAIMS

1 . A separating and lifting device for use with a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: a support for supporting the device relative to a support surface; at least one support frame member extending from the support to a first end of the beehive, said at least one support frame member being mountable to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive; and at least one handle assembly mountable to the beehive at an opposed second end, said assembly including a separating mechanism for at least partially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box for pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the device provides a range of movement of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box of about 90° about a pivot axis.

3. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the support is a generally vertical oriented structure configured to be spaced apart from the first end of the beehive by the at least one support frame member and support the beehive relative to the support surface.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the at least one support frame member includes a pair of support frame members extending from the support and connecting to front corners of the lower hive box.

5. The device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the upper hive box is hingedly connectable to the at least one support frame member by at least one hinge or part thereof such that the upper hive box is pivotable relative to the lower hive box between raised and lowered positions.

6. The device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one handle member is operatively associated with the separating mechanism for actuating the separating mechanism.

7. The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the separating mechanism moves the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box at the opposed second end a distance of between about 20mm and about 50mm as measured between the opposing edges of the lower hive box and the upper hive box at the opposed second end.

8. The device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the separating mechanism further functions as a dampener when the upper hive box is lowered relative to the lower hive box. 46

9. The device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the assembly includes a bracket mountable to the upper hive box, the at least one handle member pivotally coupled to the bracket and rotatable between a folded position and an extended position, and a cam operatively associated with a base of the handle member and configured to be rotated together with the handle member and wherein the cam is configured to act against a protrusion protruding from the lower hive box such that rotation of the handle member to the extended position causes rotation of the cam and at least partial movement of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box as the cam acts against the protrusion.

10. The device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the assembly includes a pair of brackets including a first bracket mountable to the upper hive box, a second bracket slidably mounted to the first bracket between a retracted position and an extended position and the at least one handle member pivotally coupled to the first bracket and slidably mounted to the second bracket, said at least one handle member rotatable relative to the first bracket between a folded position and an extended position, and wherein the lower edge of the second bracket is configured to act against a protrusion protruding from the lower hive box such that rotation of the handle member to the extended position causes the second bracket to slide to the extended position and at least partial movement of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box as the lower edge of the second bracket acts against the protrusion.

11. The device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the assembly includes a bracket mountable to the upper hive box and including a sidewall abutting portion extending at least past a junction between the lower and upper hive boxes to define a handle member mount and the at least one handle member pivotally mounted to the handle member mount and rotatable between a folded position and an extended position, wherein the at least one handle member includes a pivot point, a handle portion and a beak extending from the pivot point in an opposite direction to the handle portion, and wherein the beak is configured to act against a protrusion protruding from the lower hive box such that rotation of the handle member to the extended position causes the beak to lever the handle member and the bracket relative to the protrusion to thereby at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

12. The device of any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the assembly further includes a retaining mechanism for retaining the separating mechanism in a separating position.

13. The device of claim 12 when dependent on any one of claims 9 to 11 , wherein the retaining mechanism includes a clamping device for clamping the at least one handle member relative to the bracket in the extended position to thereby retain the separating mechanism in the separating position. 47

14. The device of claim 12 when dependent on claim 11 , wherein the retaining mechanism includes ratchet provided on an outer side edge of the handle member mount and the at least one handle member includes a spring-loaded pawl configured to engage with the ratchet when the handle is rotated to the extended position.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the ratchet is located on an upper side edge of the handle member mount and wherein the spring-loaded pawl is located on an underside of the at least one handle member.

16. The device of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the retaining mechanism further includes a release mechanism for disengaging the pawl from the ratchet.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the release mechanism is a lever-release operatively associated with the at least one handle member and configured to be squeezed towards the at least one handle member to lever the pawl clear of the ratchet.

18. A method of fitting a separating and lifting device relative to a beehive for separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of a beehive, said method including: mounting at least one support frame member to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; supporting the support frame relative to a support surface with a support extending from the at least one support frame member; mounting at least one handle assembly to the upper hive box at an opposed second end of the beehive, said at least one handle assembly including a separating mechanism for at least partially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and at least one handle member operatively associated with the upper hive box and extending beyond the opposed second end for pivoting the upper hive box between raised and lowered positions relative to the lower hive box.

19. A method of separating and lifting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of a beehive with a separating and lifting device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, said method including: rotating the at least one handle member of the at least one handle assembly to an extended position to actuate the separating mechanism and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box; and lifting the at least one handle member to lift and pivot the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the lifting further includes sliding the upper hive box at least partially towards the support and atop the at least one support frame member.