Patent Description:
Insects and their larvae can be used as an animal protein feeds, and for this purpose it may be desirable to farm insects on a large scale. Systems for producing and/or breeding insects on a large scale are known in the art.

For example, <CIT> discloses an illuminated dome for the controlled mixing of flying insects. International Patent Publication No. <CIT> describes a method and system for breeding insects in a climate controlled environment. The system and method comprises a plurality of stacked crates configured to contain insects and/or larvae, and a system for controlling airflow through the crates.

International patent application <CIT> discloses a method and system for controlling the air climate in an insect rearing climate housing, wherein the system comprises in combination an insect rearing climate housing and an aeration system.

Problems associated with known systems may include inadequate or inconsistent climate control, insect containment issues, limited capacity for observation, and disruptive insect or larvae 'crawl out' (where larvae and/or insects escape from a designated area).

The present invention seeks to solve one or more of the above problems by providing an improved system and method for insect rearing.

Accordingly, in a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for rearing invertebrates, the system comprises.

An embodiment is the system for rearing invertebrates of the invention, the system comprising:.

The system of the present invention allows for a tightly controlled, automated environment for growing insects, e.g. such as living insect larvae, e.g. black soldier fly (BSF) larvae. In particular, the system provides accurate control of environmental conditions in each crate, thereby ensuring an even, consistent, and predictable growth of insects within each crate and thus consistent and predictable growth of insects in each stack of crates. An embodiment is the system for rearing invertebrates of the invention, wherein the plurality of crates are arranged into one to eight stacks, preferably any one of one, two, three, four, five, six stacks, more preferably any one of one, two or three stacks, most preferably one stack or two stacks, wherein the two or more stacks, when present, extend in the second direction 2ND perpendicular to the first direction 1ST with the climate chamber in the direction of the airflow path oriented perpendicular to the first direction 1ST.

In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for rearing invertebrates, the method comprising the steps of:.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein in step (iii) the climate chamber comprises:.

The method of the present invention provides the same advantages as the aforementioned system, i.e. allowing for tight control and automation of growing insects, e.g. such as living insect larvae, for example BSF larvae, such as BSF larvae <NUM> - <NUM> days of age or BSF larvae <NUM> - <NUM> days of age, e.g. <NUM> - <NUM> days of age. The method provides accurate control of environmental conditions in each crate, thereby ensuring even, consistent and predictable growth of insects within each crate and thus consistent and predictable growth of insects in each stack of crates.

So given the system and method of the present invention, problems often encountered in the prior art may be dealt with and resolved in that adequate and consistent climate control is provided, containment issues are eliminated or significantly reduced, sufficient or improved capacity for observation is achieved, and insect/larvae 'crawl out' is prevented or mitigated.

In a third aspect of the invention, there is provided an invertebrate rearing crate configured for use in the aforementioned system and/or in the aforementioned method, wherein the crate comprises a base, upstanding side walls and upstanding end walls defining a perimeter around the base, and at least one sensor mounting region in the base of the crate.

The invertebrate rearing crate of the present invention allows for more accurate monitoring of environmental conditions in a crate and as such the crate is ideally suited for use in the system and/or method above for achieving adequate and consistent climate control. Moreover, the crate is ideally suited for use in the system and/or the method above for prevention of insect/larvae 'crawl out' and for prevention of contamination of the system by larvae crawled out of the crate.

The present invention will now be described with reference to a number of non-limiting, illustrative examples, as shown in the following drawings, in which:.

An exemplary system <NUM> according to the invention is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, which shows a front view of a climate chamber <NUM> configured to contain a plurality of crates <NUM> and which shows a top view of said climate chamber <NUM>. The crates <NUM> are arranged in stacks <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, each stack of crates rests on a pallet <NUM>. Each pallet <NUM> receives four stacks of crates <NUM>, in a <NUM> x <NUM> arrangement. However, it will be appreciated that a pallet <NUM> can comprise more than four stacks of crates or fewer than four stacks of crates. Moreover, in some embodiments, the system does not comprise pallets for receiving stacks of crates. In such embodiments, the stacks of crates rest on a track <NUM> that comprises a pair of upstanding walls <NUM> separated from each other by a channel <NUM>. The upstanding walls <NUM> are configured to support the stacks of crates above the channel <NUM>. The track <NUM> is configured to receive one or multiple stacks of crates, e.g. by arranging the stacks of crates in rows, i.e. rows of stacks of crates in the first direction.

Each pallet <NUM> rests on a track <NUM> that comprises a pair of upstanding walls <NUM> separated from each other by a channel <NUM>. The upstanding walls <NUM> are configured to support the pallets <NUM> above the channel <NUM>. The track <NUM> is configured to receive one or multiple pallets <NUM>, e.g. by arranging the pallets <NUM> in rows. An embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the climate chamber <NUM> further comprises at least one track <NUM> extending in the first direction 1ST with the climate chamber, said track comprising a first wall <NUM> and a second wall <NUM>, and a channel <NUM> defined there between. An embodiment is the system <NUM> of the invention, wherein the plurality of crates <NUM> are arranged into one to eight stacks <NUM>, 6a, 6b, preferably any one of one, two, three, four, five, six stacks <NUM>, more preferably any one of one, two or three stacks, most preferably one stack or two stacks, wherein the two or more stacks, when present, extend in the second direction 2ND perpendicular to the first direction 1ST with the climate chamber <NUM> in the direction of the airflow path oriented 80a perpendicular to the first direction 1ST. When two or more of such stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM> are positioned side by side in the second direction 2ND, such stack of crates are supported by the pallet <NUM> which in turn is supported by the upstanding walls <NUM> of a track <NUM> receiving the pellet comprising the stacks of crates.

An embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the climate chamber further comprises at least one track <NUM> extending in the first direction 1STwith the climate chamber <NUM>, said track comprising a first wall <NUM> and a second wall <NUM>, and a channel <NUM> defined there between, wherein the track is positioned between the first row of air outlets <NUM> and the first row of air inlets <NUM>, and wherein the system preferably comprises a second track <NUM> positioned between the first row of air inlets <NUM> and the second row of air outlets <NUM> or comprises a second track <NUM> positioned between the first row of air outlets <NUM> and the second row of air inlets <NUM>.

An embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the at least one track <NUM> comprises a pair of walls <NUM> separated from each other by a channel <NUM>, said channel extending in the second direction 2ND, which is perpendicular to the first direction 1ST; and optionally, wherein the at least one stack <NUM> of crates <NUM> is arranged on the tracks <NUM> such that the airflow path 80a extends in the first direction 1ST.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> of the invention, wherein each track <NUM> is configured to support a row of crate stacks <NUM> above the channel <NUM>, the row of stacks extending in the first direction 1ST with the climate chamber <NUM>.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> of the invention, wherein each track <NUM> is configured to support a pallet <NUM>, the pallet comprising at least one stack <NUM>, 6a, 6b of crates <NUM>, preferably comprising two stacks of crates arranged in a 2x1 or 1x2 arrangement, three stacks of crates arranged in a 1x3 or 3x1 arrangement, four stacks of crates arranged in a 2x2 arrangement, six stacks of crates arranged in a 2x3 or 3x2 arrangement, or nine stacks of crates arranged in a 3x3 arrangement.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> of the invention, wherein each of the walls <NUM> of the track <NUM> is a solid wall <NUM> and separates the channel <NUM> from an adjacent gutter <NUM>.

Each track <NUM> is separated from an adjacent track <NUM> by a gutter <NUM>. Each gutter <NUM> is separated from an adjacent channel <NUM> by an upstanding wall <NUM> that forms one of a pair of upstanding walls <NUM>. In this manner, a series of parallel tracks <NUM> can be formed, each separated from each other by the gutter <NUM>, with a channel <NUM> formed under each row of pallets <NUM> or formed under each row of stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM>.

It will be appreciated that the system <NUM> can be configured such that the pallets <NUM> are omitted, and the stacks of crates <NUM> rest directly on the tracks <NUM>, e.g. on the upstanding walls <NUM> of the tracks <NUM>. However, in such an embodiment the dimension of the crates <NUM> should be sufficient to span the width of the channel <NUM>, to rest on the upstanding walls <NUM> that form the track <NUM>. Alternatively, the crates <NUM> can be secured to each other along adjacent edges <NUM> and/or <NUM> (see e.g. <FIG>) to span the channel <NUM> and support the stack of crates <NUM> above.

As shown in <FIG>, the climate chamber <NUM> comprises a generally closed volume. Access to the chamber <NUM> is possible through openings, for example, windows, doors, access shafts. However, the chamber <NUM> is preferably a substantially closed volume when all access points (e.g. doors, windows, hatches) are closed. The chamber <NUM> can be an internal space in a fixed building, or it can be an internal volume of a portable structure, for example, a shipping container, a reefer, a truck trailer, a freight plane.

Each chamber <NUM> can comprise a plurality of multiple rows of stacked crates <NUM>. The climate chamber <NUM> is configured with a ventilation or climate control system <NUM> configured to manage and control the climate conditions within the crates <NUM>. To ensure that the larvae and/or insects stored within the crates develop at the same or similar rates, the climate conditions within the crates <NUM> (e.g. temperature, humidity) are closely controlled.

The climate control system <NUM> preferably comprises at least one air inlet <NUM> configured to introduce climate controlled air to the chamber <NUM>, and at least one air outlet <NUM>, or exhaust opening <NUM>, configured to extract or draw air from the chamber <NUM>.

The air inlet(s) <NUM> are preferably provided on a first side of the crates and the air outlet(s) <NUM> are preferably provided on a second side of the crates <NUM>. By providing (an) air inlet(s) <NUM> on a first side of a stack of crates <NUM>, and an air outlet <NUM> on an opposing side of the stack of crates <NUM>, a flow of climate controlled air <NUM> along air flow paths 80a through or across the crates <NUM> can be achieved.

Moreover, as depicted in <FIG> and as described in more detail below, in a stack <NUM> comprising a plurality of crates <NUM> stacked on top of one another, the openings <NUM> in the side walls of the crates <NUM> create a plurality of air flow passage ways 80a extending through the stack <NUM> and preferably at equally spaced intervals.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a plurality of air inlets <NUM> and air outlets <NUM> are provided through a ceiling <NUM> of the chamber <NUM>. The chamber <NUM> is optionally sub-divided into a plurality of sub-chambers 2a, 2b, each comprising e.g. two tracks <NUM>, although such a chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b also may comprise a single track <NUM> or multiple tracks <NUM>, more than two, such as three to ten tracks <NUM>. The sub-division of the chambers 2a, 2b can be achieved by providing dividers <NUM>, such as walls <NUM>, separators <NUM>, or curtains <NUM> and the like between tracks <NUM>, e.g. between every single track <NUM> or two tracks <NUM> or three or more tracks <NUM>. Preferably, the dividers <NUM> are spaced from the tracks <NUM> by a gutter <NUM>. Accordingly, for example each chamber 2a, 2b comprises a first wall <NUM>, a first gutter <NUM>, a first track <NUM>, a second gutter <NUM>, a second track <NUM>, a third gutter <NUM>, and a second wall <NUM>, e.g. the dividers <NUM>, and a back wall <NUM> (front wall <NUM> not shown in <FIG>, front wall <NUM> shown in <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the crates <NUM> are arranged such that the air inlets <NUM> are provided above the second gutter <NUM>, between the first and second tracks <NUM>, <NUM>. In other words, the air inlets <NUM> open into the space between the first stack 6a of crates <NUM> and the second stack 6b of crates <NUM>. The air outlets <NUM> are e.g. provided above the first and third gutters <NUM>, <NUM> between the stack 6b of crates <NUM> and the dividers <NUM> and between the stack 6a of crates <NUM> and the first wall <NUM>. Accordingly, the air outlets <NUM> open into the space between the track <NUM> and the second wall <NUM>, and the track <NUM> and the first wall <NUM>. Alternatively, in the embodiments of the system of the invention depicted in <FIG> and in <FIG>, positions of air inlets <NUM> and air outlets <NUM> are mutually exchanged compared to the embodiment of the system displayed in <FIG>. <FIG> displays a system <NUM> of the invention, which is the 'minimal' system of the invention, i.e. comprising a single (row of) air inlet(s) <NUM> and a single (row of) air outlet(s) <NUM>. By arranging the air inlets <NUM> and air outlets <NUM> in this manner, climate controlled air can be introduced between the rows of stacked crates <NUM> and subsequently drawn through each stack <NUM> of crates <NUM> towards the air outlets <NUM>, which are positioned on opposing sides of the stacks of crates <NUM>. The air flow through the crates will be described in more detail with reference to <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG>, climate controlled air can be delivered from the air inlets <NUM> to the crates <NUM> via a conduit <NUM> extending from the air inlets <NUM> towards the gutter <NUM>. The conduit <NUM> preferably comprises a series of openings <NUM>, aligned with openings of the crates (described in more detail below). The conduit <NUM> may comprise a rigid conduit or a flexible conduit such as a hose or an air sock.

In <FIG>, a top view of the inner volume of the climate chamber shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, is shown, without pallets and crates placed onto walls <NUM> or ledges 14a. In <FIG>, a top view of the inner volume of the climate chamber shown in <FIG>, is shown, without pallets and crates placed onto walls <NUM> or ledges 14a. Conduits <NUM> located between channels <NUM> are depicted, as well as flow paths 80a running perpendicular to the direction of the tracks <NUM>. The skilled person will appreciate that the relative orientation of the combination of the tracks <NUM>, bearing stacks <NUM> of crates, and the conduits <NUM> comprising the air openings <NUM> for delivering the flow paths 80a running perpendicular to the direction of the tracks <NUM>, when the relative location of the side walls <NUM> and <NUM> and the front wall <NUM> and the back wall <NUM> is considered, can be freely established, as long as the air flow paths 80a run perpendicular to the direction of the tracks <NUM> such that air flows <NUM> can run over and through crates stacked onto walls <NUM> or ledges 14a, in the direction herein outlined. In the exemplary embodiment of the drawings, side walls run essentially parallel with the channels <NUM> and gutters <NUM>, whereas the front wall and the back wall are oriented essentially perpendicular to the direction of the channels, which is preferred. Equally preferred is the orientation wherein the front and back walls run essentially parallel with the channels <NUM> and gutters <NUM>, whereas the side walls are oriented essentially perpendicular to the direction of the channels.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber <NUM> further comprises a plurality of air inlets <NUM> and a plurality of air outlets <NUM>.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the at least one air inlet <NUM> and/or the at least one air outlet <NUM> are provided in a ceiling <NUM>, 22a, 22b of the climate chamber <NUM>.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber <NUM> is divided into a plurality of sub-chambers 2a, 2b.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber <NUM> is divided into a plurality of sub-chambers 2a, 2b, wherein each sub-chamber 2a, 2b has a first side wall <NUM> and a second side wall <NUM>, and at least a first track <NUM> and a second track <NUM>,.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the plurality of air inlets <NUM> are arranged above the second gutter <NUM>, <NUM>, and wherein the plurality of air outlets <NUM> are arranged above the first gutter <NUM>, <NUM> and the third gutter <NUM>, <NUM>, or wherein the plurality of air outlets <NUM> are arranged above the second gutter <NUM>, <NUM>, and wherein the plurality of air inlets <NUM> are arranged above the first gutter <NUM>, <NUM> and the third gutter <NUM>, <NUM>.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, further comprising a control system <NUM> configured to maintain a pressure gradient between the inlet openings <NUM> and the outlet openings <NUM>, wherein a pressure at the inlet openings is higher than a pressure at the outlet openings, such that air flows from the inlet openings, through the climate chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b, and out of the outlet openings.

A shown in <FIG>, to ensure a steady flow <NUM> of air through the crates <NUM>, from an air inlet side <NUM> to an air outlet side <NUM> thereof, a pressure differential is preferably created between air inlet side <NUM> of the crates and the air outlet side <NUM>, with a lower pressure at the outlet side <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, the air inlet side <NUM> of the crates <NUM> is located proximal to the conduit <NUM>. The pressure differential can be created by applying a pressure differential between air inlets <NUM> and the air outlets <NUM>. As said, each track <NUM> can configured to support a pallet, the pallet comprising at least one stack of crates, preferably comprising two stacks of crates arranged in a 2x1 or 1x2 arrangement, three stacks of crates arranged in a 1x3 or 3x1 arrangement, four stacks of crates arranged in a 2x2 arrangement, six stacks of crates arranged in a 2x3 or 3x2 arrangement, or nine stacks of crates arranged in a 3x3 arrangement. Alternatively, the pallet is absent, and multiple stacks <NUM> of horizontally stacked crates <NUM> are connected through crate connection means. When multiple crates are stacked in the second direction 2ND, i.e. the direction of the air flow paths 80a, the steady flow <NUM> of air runs through the multiple crates <NUM> stacked in the second direction 2ND, such as for example two crates <NUM> as depicted in <FIG> and three crates <NUM> as depicted in <FIG>, although crates <NUM> can also be provided as a single crate in stacks <NUM> when the second direction 2ND of flow path 80a is considered, or for example as horizontally stacked rows of more than four crates such as five to twelve crates. One or two crates stacked horizontally in the second direction 2ND is however preferred. Arrangements of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> crates x any one of <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> crates are suitable according to the invention, although the invention is not limited to arrangements of <NUM>, 1x2, 2x1, 2x2,. 7x7 arrangements of a single crate or multiple crates, when stacks of crates are considered.

The climate chamber <NUM> shown in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> preferably further comprises a control system <NUM>, configured to measure the conditions within each chamber <NUM> or each sub-chamber 2a, 2b and control the pressure differential between the air inlet(s) <NUM> and the air outlet(s) <NUM> accordingly. The chamber <NUM> and/or each sub-chamber 2a, 2b can also comprise sensors <NUM> configured to detect the temperature and humidity within the crates <NUM> and/or the chamber <NUM> or sub-chamber 2a, 2b and control the temperature and/or humidity of the air delivered through the air inlets <NUM> accordingly.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, further comprising at least one sensor <NUM> configured to measure at least one environmental condition within at least one of the plurality of crates. An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the at least one environmental condition includes one or more of:.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the at least one sensor <NUM> is a sensor 52a arranged in a base <NUM> of the crates <NUM> (See <FIG>). An embodiment is the system <NUM> of the invention, wherein the control system is configured to adjust at least one of the following parameters based on environmental conditions detected by at least one sensor:.

Further details of the system <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG>, which shows a three dimensional view of a stack <NUM> of crates <NUM>, e.g. in a <NUM> x <NUM> arrangement.

As shown in <FIG>, each pallet <NUM> supports four stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM>, in a 2x2 arrangement. Each crate <NUM> comprises a base <NUM> and four upstanding walls: two opposing side walls <NUM>, and two opposing end walls <NUM>. The pellet <NUM> is optional. An arrangement of a single crate received by the upstanding walls <NUM> of the track <NUM>, the crate bearing a stack of one or multiple crates, e.g. <NUM>-<NUM> crates, on top of this bottom crate, is equally suitable in the system of the invention.

One pair of opposing end walls <NUM> (see <FIG>) comprises openings <NUM> or cut-outs <NUM>. The path 80a between the opposing openings <NUM> or cut-outs <NUM> defines an air flow path 80a over or through the crate <NUM>.

The crates <NUM> are arranged with respect in the <NUM> x <NUM> arrangement in the same orientation such that two airflow paths 80a spanning two crates <NUM> are created. For example, a first 4a and a second 4b crate are arranged with their respective openings/cut-outs <NUM> aligned to define a first flow path 80a, whilst third 4c and fourth 4d crates are arranged with their respective openings <NUM> aligned to define a second flow path 80a. The first and second crates 4a, 4b are placed adjacent to the third and fourth crates 4c, 4d such that two parallel flow paths 80a are created.

The crates <NUM> in rows of stacked crates <NUM> are arranged such that the flow paths 80a extend perpendicular to the tracks <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG>, this allows the crates <NUM> to be oriented with aligned openings <NUM> providing a flow path 80a between an inlet side <NUM> of the stack <NUM>, <NUM>, i.e. where the air inlets <NUM> are located, and an outlet side <NUM> of the stack <NUM>, <NUM>, i.e. where the air outlets <NUM> are located. Although the arrangement shown in <FIG> shows air inlet(s) <NUM> disposed between two tracks <NUM>, and outlets <NUM> disposed on either side of the arrangement of two tracks <NUM>, the skilled person will appreciate that the reverse arrangement is possible (with the air outlets <NUM> disposed above the second gutter <NUM> shown in <FIG> and the air inlets <NUM> disposed above the first gutter <NUM> and third gutter <NUM>. See also <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> in this regard.

However, the arrangement shown in <FIG> and <FIG> is preferred in the illustrated example because the pressure differential from pressure to low pressure is inverse to the volume between the crates, e.g. the volume between the crates <NUM> shown in <FIG> is smaller than the volume on either side of the crates <NUM> and thus the pressure differential may be easier to control, and require less energy to maintain.

As shown in <FIG>, the crates <NUM> are configured to stack in a series of stacks <NUM> such that the openings <NUM> at opposing end walls <NUM> are aligned. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the crates <NUM> have an elongate cross-section, the opposing side walls <NUM> having a length L, and opposing end walls <NUM> having a length W, wherein W is less than L. The openings <NUM> are formed in the opposing end walls <NUM> of the crate <NUM>, where the crates are arranged end to end in stacks <NUM> to form the flow path 80a mentioned earlier.

The opposing side walls <NUM> of the crate <NUM> not comprising the openings <NUM> are preferably configured such that they mate/cooperate with a crate above to provide a combined opposing side wall to the stack of crates <NUM> without openings. Such a configuration ensures that the flow of air through or over the crates <NUM> is restricted to the flow path 80a defined between the openings/cut-outs <NUM>.

To further restrict air flow solely through the crates <NUM>, the upstanding walls <NUM> of the track <NUM> on which the pallets <NUM> and/or crates <NUM> rest preferably comprise solid walls <NUM>. Although an air tight seal between the pallets <NUM> and the upstanding wall <NUM> is not required, by providing solid walls, substantially free of openings, the volume of a flow path beneath the crates <NUM> between the air inlet side and the air outlet side that does not contribute to climate control within the crates <NUM> can be reduced or even eliminated.

As shown in <FIG>, the upstanding walls <NUM> on which the stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM> rest result in a channel <NUM> that extends under the crates <NUM>. The channel <NUM> under the crates <NUM> may advantageously allow access to the volume beneath the crates <NUM> for various reasons. For example, an automated or remote controlled robotic device <NUM>, 86a, 86a' (<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>) can travel through the channel <NUM> beneath the crates <NUM>. The robotic device <NUM>, 86a, 86a' can be configured to monitor conditions along the length of the channel <NUM> (e.g. the robotic device is provided with sensors <NUM>). Alternatively or additively, the robotic device <NUM>, 86a, 86a' can be configured to retrieve stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the channel <NUM> also allows a manned lifting device to be manoeuvred along the channels <NUM>.

The tracks <NUM> can further comprise a ledge 14a on an internal surface 12a of the upstanding wall <NUM>, i.e. internal with respect to the channel <NUM>, which provides runners along which the robot device <NUM> or manned lifting device can run. Such runners can allow a robotic device <NUM>, 86a, 86a' to run along the channel <NUM> above the floor F of the chamber <NUM>, or they can confine a robot <NUM>, 86a, 86a' to a predetermined path.

The solid upstanding walls <NUM> that form the tracks <NUM> can provide a further advantage that they prevent escaped larvae or insects from entering the channel <NUM> under the crate stacks <NUM>. Since the crates <NUM> are oriented with the airflow path 80a perpendicular to the channels <NUM>, insects and/or larvae escaping from the crates <NUM> through the openings <NUM> fall into the gutters <NUM>, and not into the channels <NUM> between the upstanding walls <NUM>. Since the gutters <NUM> are separated from the channels <NUM> by solid walls <NUM>, escaped insects and/or larvae are confined to the gutters <NUM>, from which they can easily be cleaned.

The upstanding walls <NUM> may, in some embodiments, form a water tight seal between the channel <NUM> and the gutters <NUM>. This can allow the gutters <NUM> to be washed without washing liquid running between the gutter <NUM> and the channels <NUM> under the upstanding walls <NUM> of the tracks <NUM>. This can further help to keep the channels <NUM> beneath the crates <NUM> free of detritus, larvae, larvae remains, debris, cleaning liquid, etc., and to avoid contact between the robot <NUM>, 86a or the manned lifting device, which runs in the channels <NUM> beneath the stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM>, and the detritus, larvae, debris, larvae remains, cleaning liquid, etc. Avoiding the robot (and/or the manned lifting device) from contacting such waste products extends the operation time of the robot, prevents the robot from becoming damaged and prevents hampered performance of the robot. In addition, with a clean robot not contacted with said waste, the risk for contamination of the robotically lifted and transported crates <NUM> with said waste is avoided.

It will be appreciated that the channels <NUM> and the gutters <NUM> can be open at their respective ends, or that they can be formed with closed ends. In many embodiments, open ended channels <NUM> and/or gutters <NUM> are preferred since they facilitate access from the floor F of the climate chamber <NUM>, e.g. for sweeping/cleaning or for robot <NUM>, 86a, 86a' and/or lifting device access.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the climate chamber <NUM> may further comprise one or more rails <NUM> running perpendicular to the channels <NUM>, and configured to allow a robotic device <NUM>, 86a, 86a' to move between channels <NUM>. An embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the climate chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b further comprises a first rail <NUM> extending in the second direction 2ND adjacent a first open end <NUM> of the at least one track <NUM> or adjacent a second open end <NUM>' of the at least one track <NUM>. An embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the climate chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b further comprises a first rail <NUM> extending in the second direction 2ND adjacent a first open end <NUM> of the at least one track <NUM> and comprises a second rail <NUM>' extending in the second direction 2ND adjacent a second open end <NUM>' of the at least one track <NUM>. An embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the at least one track <NUM> comprises a ledge 14a on an internal surface of the upstanding wall with respect to the channel <NUM>, which provides runners 14a along which a robot device or robot unit 86a, 86a' or manned lifting device can run. For example, the climate chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b can further comprise a rail or pair of rails <NUM> extending perpendicular to the channels <NUM> having an open end <NUM>. The rails <NUM> can be configured to convey a (second or alternative) robotic device <NUM> in a perpendicular direction, in front of the open end of the channels <NUM>. The second or alternative robotic device <NUM>, <NUM>' can comprise a frame <NUM> or carrier <NUM> configured to travel along the rail(s) <NUM>, <NUM>', and a robot unit 86a, 86a' configured to travel along the runners in the channel <NUM> formed by the ledges 14a. In embodiments, the open end <NUM>, or the open ends <NUM> and <NUM>' are optionally closable open ends, i.e. the openings <NUM>, <NUM>' can optionally be closed with e.g. a (sliding) door, slats, etc., when e.g. stacks of crates are not moved and/or the robotic unit or robotic device is not operating at or along rail <NUM>, <NUM>' and/or the robotic unit or robotic device is not operating at or over a track <NUM>.

In an advantageous embodiment it is conceivable that the system <NUM> of the present invention comprises a robotic device <NUM>, 86a, 86a', <NUM>, <NUM>' which is configured to move freely and place one or more crates <NUM> into the stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM>, or take one or more crates <NUM> from stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM>. This robotic device <NUM>, 86a, <NUM> may be seen as a freely moveably warehouse-like robot that moves a crate/crates around, e.g. horizontally and/or vertically, in the chamber <NUM> and along any desirable (programmable) route. In an exemplary embodiment, such a robotic device <NUM>, 86a, <NUM> may move on steerable wheels <NUM>, 90a for maximum degrees of freedom.

Therefore, an advantageous embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the first rail <NUM> and the second rail <NUM>', when present, is/are configured to convey a robotic device 86a, 86a' in a perpendicular direction, i.e. the first direction 1ST along the direction in which track(s) <NUM> extent(s), in front of the first and/or second open end(s) <NUM>, <NUM>' of the channels, wherein optionally the robotic device comprises a frame or carrier configured to travel along the rail(s), and comprises a robot unit 86a, 86a' configured to travel along the at least one track or along the runners in the channel formed by the ledges 14a. An embodiment is the system of the invention, wherein the climate chamber further comprises at least one robotic device configured to move along the at least one track. Preferred is the embodiment relating to the system of the invention, further comprising at least one robotic device configured to freely move and place one or more crates into the first and/or the second stack of crates, or take one or more crates from the first and/or the second stack of crates.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG>, a plurality of conduits <NUM> may be configured to deliver climate controlled air from the air inlet <NUM> directly to the openings <NUM> in the crates <NUM>, the <NUM> x <NUM> arrangements thereof. Each conduits <NUM> can comprise a sock comprising a flexible wall, e.g. a polymer wall, having a plurality of openings <NUM>. A conduit <NUM> preferably extends from the air inlet <NUM> provided in the ceiling of the climate chamber <NUM> towards the floor/bottom of the gutter <NUM>. The conduits <NUM> are arranged such that they are preferably provided adjacent each stack of openings <NUM> of the stack of crates <NUM>. Advantageously, the openings <NUM> in the conduit <NUM> are preferably spaced to align with individual openings <NUM> of the crates <NUM>. In this manner, climate controlled air can be supplied from the conduits <NUM> to the openings <NUM> of the crates <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, each stack <NUM> of crates <NUM> is preferably configured such that an upper edge of a top crate 4T is positioned adjacent to the ceiling <NUM>, 22a, 22b of the climate chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b. The upper edge 4U of the top crate is preferably positioned within <NUM> of the ceiling <NUM> of the climate chamber <NUM>, more preferably within <NUM> of the ceiling <NUM>, and more preferably within <NUM> of the ceiling of the climate chamber <NUM>. This can allow a dead volume within the climate chamber <NUM> to be reduced, thus further improving the climate control within the chamber <NUM>. Moreover, by minimising the space between the ceiling <NUM> and the top of each stack of crates, the space through which air can flow past the crates (without passing through the crates) is minimised. This may improve the efficiency of the system since it can help to maintain the pressure and/or temperature difference on either side of the stacks of crates <NUM>.

The crate <NUM> of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to <FIG> shows a perspective view of a single crate <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown in <FIG>, the crate <NUM> comprises a base <NUM> providing a closed bottom to the crate <NUM>. Upstanding walls <NUM>, <NUM> extend from edges of the base <NUM> to provide the opposing side walls <NUM> and end walls <NUM> of the crate <NUM>. The top of the crate <NUM> is open, although the skilled person will appreciate that the top of the crate <NUM> can also be provided with a lid <NUM> for closing/covering the top. In an exemplary embodiment, the crate <NUM> has a generally rectangular cross-section.

The openings <NUM> are formed in the opposing end walls <NUM>, wherein the openings <NUM> may be formed as through holes, i.e. surrounded on all sides by the material of the end wall <NUM>. Alternatively, and as shown in <FIG>, the openings <NUM> may be formed as recesses or cut-outs in an upper edge of the end walls <NUM> extending towards the base <NUM> of the crate <NUM>.

The openings <NUM> preferably extend across at least <NUM>% of the width of the end wall <NUM>, more preferably at least <NUM>% of the width of the end wall <NUM>. Further, the openings <NUM> preferably comprise between <NUM> and <NUM> of the height of the crate <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>.

The base <NUM> of the crate is preferably smooth or substantially smooth, without ridges or recesses. By smooth it is meant that the base does not comprise planar surfaces that meet at a vertex having an angle of less than <NUM> degrees, more preferably <NUM> degrees, and more preferably <NUM> or <NUM> degrees. Preferably angled vertices are eliminated in the base <NUM> (except where the base <NUM> joins the walls <NUM>, <NUM>); and, in an embodiment in which the base <NUM> does not extend in a single plane, any transition between surfaces extending in different planes is curved, e.g. rounded corners. Such an arrangement may facilitate cleaning and hygiene of the crates.

The base <NUM> may further comprise one or more mounting points <NUM> for sensors 52a configured to measure various conditions, such as temperature, humidity, oxygen concentration, dry matter content etc. within the crates <NUM>. In the example shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, eight sensor mounting points <NUM> for each crate <NUM> are shown, however the skilled person will appreciate that fewer than eight sensor mounting points <NUM> can be provided.

Embodiments with more than eight sensor mounts <NUM> are also possible. The mounting points <NUM> for sensors 52a can comprise openings in the lower surface of the base <NUM> into which sensors 52a can be placed. In an advantageous embodiment, the sensors 52a may be configured to measure the conditions in the crate 4e below and/or in the crate 4b in which they are mounted.

In at least one embodiment, the sensor mounts <NUM> comprise a cavity extending into the interior volume of the crate <NUM> from the base <NUM>. By providing a cavity that extends into the interior volume of the crate <NUM> in which a sensor 52a can be mounted, the sensor 52a can more accurately measure the conditions within the biomass contained in the crate. Multiple sensors 52a can be arranged within the base <NUM> of the crate <NUM>, preferably equally spaced and arranged across the base <NUM> such that conditions throughout the biomass distributed in the crate <NUM> can be measured.

The openings in base <NUM> can be in direct communication with the interior volume of the crates <NUM>, or a cover layer can be disposed between the sensors and the interior volume of the crates <NUM>. The sensor(s) 52a can be in wired or wireless communication with control system <NUM> and/or with sensors <NUM> described above with reference to <FIG>. Conditions detected by the sensors 52a can be used to adjust the flow rate of the air through the crates <NUM>, the temperatures, and/or humidity of the air supplied through the air inlets <NUM>, etc. Crates <NUM> according to the invention can be configured with integrated sensors or removable sensors 52a.

Alternatively, the control system <NUM> can be configured to operate according to set values, independent of the input of the sensors 52a and/or sensors <NUM>. Instead, the sensors 52a can be used to monitor conditions within the climate chamber <NUM> without providing a direct feedback loop to the control unit.

As further depicted in <FIG>, each crate <NUM> may comprise a generally planar or flat upper edge <NUM>. Each of the opposing side walls <NUM> may further comprise at least one (and preferably two) upstanding projections <NUM> extending from the upper edge <NUM> of the side walls <NUM>.

A lower edge <NUM> of the side walls <NUM> preferably comprise a recess <NUM> configured to receive an upstanding projection <NUM> formed on an upper edge <NUM> of the crate 4e below when the crates <NUM> are stacked in alignment. This arrangement ensures alignment of the crates <NUM>, and thus alignment of the crate openings <NUM> with each other, and with the openings <NUM> in the conduits <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a crate <NUM> may further comprise a receiving portion <NUM> for an identification tag, for example a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The RFID tag can be removably mounted in the receiving portion <NUM>. The receiving portion <NUM> can take any form capable of receiving and retaining an identification tag. The tag can be slid, push fit, or magnetically retained in the receiving portion <NUM>.

The projections <NUM> are preferably arranged on the opposing side walls <NUM> of the crate <NUM> such that the crate <NUM> has at least two-fold rotational symmetry about a vertical axis (with reference to projections <NUM>). In other words, at least two projections <NUM> can be located on the crate <NUM> such that crates stack together as long as the side walls <NUM> are aligned with each other.

Similarly, the receiving portions <NUM> are preferably arranged on the side walls <NUM> of the crate <NUM> such that the crate has at least two fold-rotational symmetry about a vertical axis (with respect to receiving portions <NUM>). In other words, at least two receiving portions <NUM> are provided, one on each side wall <NUM>, i.e. lower edge <NUM>, the receiving portions <NUM> being positioned such that they are in the relative position on the crate <NUM> as long as the side walls <NUM> are aligned. In the example shown in <FIG>, a receiving portions <NUM> is provided on the right hand side of the side wall <NUM>, from the perspective of an observer facing the side wall <NUM> as depicted. On the opposing side wall <NUM>, the receiving portion <NUM> is also provided on the right hand side of the side wall <NUM>, from the perspective of an observer facing the opposing side wall <NUM>. This can ensure that an identification tag is always visible in a stack of crates <NUM>, and in a consistent location in a stack of crates <NUM>.

The crate <NUM> can comprise a dual layer construction, having a structural exterior layer, which provides rigidity and structural stability, and an interior skin or layer, configured to provide a smooth interior surface. The smooth interior surface may also reduce the risk of larvae and/or insects escaping from the crate <NUM> or becoming lodged in crevices and recesses within the crate <NUM>.

The dimensions of the crate <NUM> can be chosen according to the requirements of the climate chamber <NUM>, the configuration of the tracks <NUM>, and the developmental stage of the larvae and/or insects to be reared. For example, crates <NUM> configured for the rearing of neonate black soldier fly larvae, typically <NUM>-<NUM> days of age or <NUM>-<NUM> days of age can have: <NUM> length, <NUM> width, and <NUM> height. The skilled person will appreciate that other dimensions are also possible. For example, crates configured for the rearing of black soldier fly larvae, typically <NUM>-<NUM> days of age or <NUM>-<NUM> days of age can have: <NUM> length, <NUM> width, and <NUM> height.

Referring now to <FIG>, and exemplary embodiment of a climate chamber <NUM> without crates <NUM> is shown.

As shown in <FIG>, the chamber <NUM> comprises a single elongated chamber, comprising two parallel sets of tracks <NUM>. Each track <NUM> extends from optionally a closed end <NUM> or an open end <NUM>', to an open end <NUM>; here in the embodiment of <FIG> from an open end <NUM> to and open end <NUM>'. A first rail <NUM> may be arranged adjacent the open ends <NUM>. A second rail <NUM>' may be arranged adjacent the open ends <NUM>'. The rails <NUM> and/or <NUM>' may be configured to carry an electronic device between tracks <NUM>, such as a robotic device <NUM>, <NUM>', optionally comprising a robotic unit 86a, 86a' for movement along the tracks <NUM> underneath the stacks <NUM> of crates.

The air inlets <NUM> and air outlets <NUM> are provided in the secondary ceiling <NUM> of chamber <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the air inlets <NUM> are supplied with climate controlled air via a master inlet <NUM> that is optionally provided with a driver 74a such as a pump or compressor for driving (conditioned) air into void <NUM> between ceiling <NUM> of the chamber <NUM> and the secondary ceiling of chamber <NUM>, and subsequently driving the air into conduits <NUM> via air inlets <NUM>. That is to say, the air inlets <NUM> are in communication with a void <NUM>, which is in turn in communication with a master inlet <NUM>. An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the system further comprises a second conduit and master air inlet <NUM> in fluid communication with the air inlets <NUM> and conduits <NUM> connected thereto, wherein the second conduit and master air inlet <NUM> is configured to push air into the climate chamber <NUM>, that is to say, in the void <NUM> and through air inlets <NUM> into conduits <NUM>.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the plurality of air outlets <NUM> are arranged along a duct <NUM>, wherein the duct is configured to draw air from the climate chamber <NUM> through the plurality of air outlets <NUM> via a master outlet <NUM>. Optionally, the duct <NUM> has a variable height H, and the height of the duct <NUM> decreases as the distance from the master outlet <NUM> increases. The air outlets <NUM> are connected to a duct <NUM>, e.g. covered or enclosed by the duct <NUM>, along which the plurality of air outlets <NUM> are arranged. The ducts <NUM> are exhausted by a master outlet <NUM> in fluid communication with the duct <NUM>. An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the duct <NUM> has a variable height H, and wherein the height of the duct <NUM> decreases as the distance from the master outlet <NUM> increases.

The duct <NUM> has a length P and extends along the length of the tracks <NUM>. One duct <NUM> is provided per track <NUM>. The master outlet <NUM> may be provided approximately half way along the length of the duct <NUM>. The duct <NUM> has a height H that is greatest at the junction with the master outlet <NUM>, and height H decreases as the duct <NUM> extends away from the master outlet <NUM> towards its opposing ends 68a, 68b. Such a tapering height of the duct <NUM> reduces the volume of the duct <NUM> as the duct <NUM> extends away from the master outlet <NUM>. This reduction in volume can reduce the pressure drop along the length of the duct <NUM>, thereby improving the consistency with which airflow is exhausted from the chamber <NUM> across the plurality of air outlets <NUM> arranged along the length of the duct <NUM>.

It will be appreciated that a similar system can be employed with multiple ducts <NUM> provided along the length of the track <NUM>. Each duct <NUM> may be provided with its own master outlet <NUM>, and can comprise a maximum height H at the junction with the master outlet <NUM>, with the height H reducing as the duct <NUM> extends away from the outlet <NUM> towards closed ends. It will be appreciated that a similar volume reduction can be achieved by varying other dimensions of the duct <NUM> as it extends away from the master outlet <NUM>. Such configurations also fall within the scope of the present invention. In embodiments, the number of air outlets and the number of air inlets comprised by a chamber <NUM> are the same, or for example, the chamber <NUM> comprises a row or rows of air outlets <NUM> wherein the ratio between air outlets and air inlets in the chamber is one air outlet <NUM> for each two air inlets <NUM>, or vice versa (<NUM> to <NUM>). Preferred is a system <NUM> comprising chamber <NUM> having a ratio between air outlets <NUM> and air inlets <NUM> of <NUM>(:)<NUM>, although an alternative ratio will also suffice.

The plurality of air outlets <NUM> is also shown in <FIG>, wherein the air outlets <NUM> are arranged in the ceiling <NUM> of chamber <NUM> above each of the two tracks <NUM> (see also <FIG>, <FIG>). The air lets <NUM> are in communication with a void <NUM>, which is in turn in communication with a master inlet <NUM>.

It will be appreciated that flow of air <NUM> through the crates <NUM> may be controlled in different manners. For example, the only controlled parameter may be the flow of air <NUM> through the crates <NUM>. This can be controlled by generating a pressure difference between the air inlets <NUM> and the air outlets <NUM>. Such a pressure differential can be applied by applying a positive pressure (e.g. above atmospheric pressure) to the air inlet(s) <NUM> and/or a negative pressure (e.g. below atmospheric pressure) to the air outlet(s) <NUM>.

Alternatively, one of the inlets <NUM> or the outlets <NUM> may be in fluid communication with a region of atmospheric pressure, whilst the other of the inlets <NUM> or the outlets <NUM> are controlled (either above or below atmospheric pressure) to provide the required pressure differential.

The climate can be further controlled by controlling the temperature and/or humidity of the air entering the climate chamber <NUM>, e.g. sub chambers 2a, 2b, through the air inlets <NUM>. The air flow <NUM> through the crates <NUM> and/or the temperature and/or humidity can be maintained at constant levels, or they can be varied cyclically, independently, or individually. The precise parameters desired for each climate chamber <NUM> or sub-chamber 2a, 2b depend on the insect species, developmental stage of the insects, and current production rate requirements, and can be chosen by the skilled person accordingly. Typically, the insect species reared in the crates <NUM> stacked in the chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b is the BSF, and typically, the developmental stage of said BSF is the neonate larvae stage for example between <NUM> and <NUM> days post hatching or between <NUM> and <NUM> days post hatching, or is the larvae stage for example between <NUM> and <NUM> days post hatching.

The airflow <NUM> (and/or the temperature and/or humidity of delivered air) can be further controlled based on environmental conditions measured by the sensors 52a and/or sensors <NUM>. The control unit or control system <NUM> can be configured to adjust the supplied air in real time, or at predetermined intervals based on conditions detected by the sensors 52a. The controller can be configured to maintain the conditions within all sub-chambers 2a, 2b within a predetermined range, according to a set level. Alternatively, the control unit or the control system <NUM> can be configured to control the air supply to the sub-chambers 2a, 2b without sensor information. Instead, the sensors 52a can be used to issue an alert if the conditions deviate from a predefined set level.

Conditions within the sub-chambers 2a, 2b can be controlled individually. This arrangement can improve the consistency with which the larvae and/or insects are reared through each developmental stage. In many cases, it is preferably for large numbers of insects and/or larvae to develop at the same rate. According, the conditions in each sub-chamber 2a, 2b can be measured independently, and the airflow and climate control adjusted accordingly to harmonise, as far as possible, the rate of development of larvae and/or insects in each sub-chamber 2a, 2b.

A chamber <NUM> may house multiple sub-chambers 2a, 2b, each optimised for a different developmental stage or different species and/or different pace of development. In such embodiments, the crates <NUM> used in each such chamber 2a, 2b may comprise a different colour, indexed to indicate the developmental stage and/or species of larvae and/or insects. The colour coding of crates <NUM> can allow automatic detection of species and/or development stage, e.g. by a robotic device <NUM>, 86a, <NUM> comprising an optical sensor <NUM>, which can provide feedback to the climate control system and/or stock management information.

Thus, in summary, a first aspect of the invention relates to a system for rearing invertebrates, the system comprising:
a plurality of crates arranged into at least one stack, each crate in the stack defining an airflow path there through from an inlet opening in a first wall to an outlet opening in a second wall opposite the first wall; a climate chamber comprising: an internal volume enclosed by walls, a floor, and a ceiling; a first row of a plurality of air outlets extending in a first direction within the internal volume; a second row of a plurality of air outlets extending parallel to the first row of air outlets within the internal volume; a row of air inlets located between the first and second rows of air outlets, and extending parallel thereto, and spaced apart from the first and second rows of air outlets in a second direction, perpendicular to the first direction; wherein the air inlets and the air outlets are provided in the ceiling of the climate chamber; at least one first stack of crates arranged in a space between the first row of air outlets and the row of air inlets; at least one second stack of crates arranged in a space between the second row of air outlets and the row of air inlets; a conduit extending from each of the plurality of air inlets between the first and second stack of crates, said conduit comprising a plurality of conduit openings configured to align with inlet openings of the plurality of crates in each stack; wherein the crates are arranged with the airflow path oriented perpendicular to the first direction; wherein the plurality of air outlets are arranged along a duct and covered by the duct, and wherein the duct is configured to draw air from the climate chamber through the plurality of air outlets via a master outlet in fluid communication with the duct.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber further comprises at least one track extending in the first direction with the climate chamber, said track comprising a first wall and a second wall, and a channel defined there between.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the track is positioned between the first row of air outlets and the row of air inlets, and wherein the system, preferably, comprises a second track positioned between the row of air inlets and the second row of air outlets.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the at least one track comprises a pair of walls separated from each other by a channel, said channel extending in the second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction; and optionally, wherein the at least one stack of crates is arranged on the tracks such that the airflow path extends in the first direction.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein each track is configured to support a row of crate stacks above the channel.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein each track is configured to support a pallet comprising four stacks of crates arranged in a 2x2 arrangement.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the pair of walls comprise solid, opposing walls, arranged parallel to each other.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein each of the walls is a solid wall and separates the channel from an adjacent gutter.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber further comprises a plurality of air inlets and a plurality of air outlets.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the at least one air inlet and/or the at least one air outlet are provided in a ceiling of the climate chamber.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber is divided into a plurality of sub-chambers.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein each sub-chamber has a first side wall and a second side wall, and a first track and a second track, wherein the first track is separated from the first wall by a first gutter, wherein the first track is separated from the second track by a second gutter, and wherein the second track is separated from the second wall by a third gutter.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the plurality of air inlets are arranged above the second gutter, and wherein the plurality of air outlets are arranged above the first and third gutters.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, further comprising a control system configured to maintain a pressure gradient between the inlet openings and the outlet openings, wherein a pressure at the inlet openings is higher than a pressure at the outlet openings, such that air flows from the inlet openings, through the climate chamber, and out of the outlet openings.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, further comprising at least one sensor configured to measure at least one environmental condition within at least one of the plurality of crates.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the at least one environmental condition includes one or more of: temperature; humidity; oxygen concentration; carbon dioxide concentration; pressure; and air flow.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the at least one sensor is arranged in a base of the crates.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the plurality of air outlets are arranged along a duct <NUM>, wherein the duct is configured to withdraw (extract, pull) air from chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b through the plurality of air outlets <NUM> via a master outlet <NUM>.

An embodiment is the system <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the duct <NUM> has a variable height H, and wherein the height of the duct <NUM> decreases as the distance from the master outlet <NUM> increases.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the system further comprises an air inlet conduit <NUM> through a through-hole in the (outer) ceiling of chamber <NUM> and in fluid communication with the air inlet openings <NUM>, and wherein the conduit <NUM> comprises a flexible conduit comprising a plurality of holes along opposing sides. Conditioned air from outside the chamber <NUM> can be pulled into the void volume above ceiling <NUM>, 22a, 22b of chamber <NUM>, 2a, 2b and can be provided through air inlet openings <NUM> and into conduits <NUM> (see also <FIG>).

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber is provided in a static structure.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber is provided in a portable container, e.g. a shipping container, a reefer, a truck trailer.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the control system is configured to adjust at least one of the following parameters based on environmental conditions detected by at least one sensor: temperature; humidity; oxygen concentration; carbon dioxide concentration; pressure at the inlet and/or outlet; and air flow.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber further comprises at least one rail extending in the second direction adjacent open ends of the at least one track.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the at least one track comprises a ledge on an internal surface of the upstanding wall with respect to the channel, which provides runners along which a robot device or manned lifting device can run.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the at least one rail is configured to convey a robotic device in a perpendicular direction, in front of the open end of the channels, wherein optionally the robotic device comprises a frame or carrier configured to travel along the rail(s), and comprises a robot unit configured to travel along the at least one track or along the runners in the channel formed by the ledges.

An embodiment is the system according to the invention, wherein the climate chamber further comprises at least one robotic device configured to move along the at least one track. An embodiment is the system according to the invention, further comprising at least one robotic device configured to freely move and place one or more crates into the first and/or the second stack of crates, or take one or more crates from the first and/or the second stack of crates.

The present invention also provides a method of rearing invertebrates, the method including the steps of: providing a plurality of crates <NUM>; filling at least a portion of each crate <NUM> with a substrate and a plurality of invertebrates in a first developmental stage, and arranging said crates in a climate chamber <NUM> as described above to form a plurality of parallel air flow paths 80a through the crates <NUM>.

The method further comprises passing a flow of air <NUM>, preferably having controlled temperature and humidity, through said air flow paths 80a formed by said crates <NUM>, by providing a plurality of air inlets <NUM> on a first side of said stack <NUM> of crates <NUM>, and an air outlet <NUM> on an opposing side of said stack <NUM> of crates <NUM>.

Optionally, the method further comprises measuring, with at least one sensor 52a disposed within the stack of crates <NUM>, an environmental condition within the stack <NUM>. Advantageously, the airflow <NUM> through the stack <NUM> can be modified based on the conditions detected by the sensor(s) 52a. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental condition in the volume surrounding the stack <NUM> in climate room <NUM>, 2a, 2b is measured with at least one sensor <NUM> disposed in the climate room, outside crates <NUM>, according to the method of the invention. Additionally or alternatively, the environmental condition in the volume surrounding the stack <NUM> in climate room <NUM>, 2a, 2b is measured with at least one sensor <NUM> disposed on the robot <NUM>, 86a, <NUM>, according to the method of the invention.

The method further comprises the step providing a channel <NUM> extending in a first direction 1ST below a plurality of crate stacks <NUM>, and arranging said stacks <NUM> with said airflow path 80a perpendicular to the first direction 1ST. Further optional and advantageous steps of a method according to the invention will be apparent from the above description of the exemplary system.

Like the system <NUM> as described above, the method of the present invention may further comprise the step of operating a robotic device <NUM>, <NUM> to freely move and place one or more crates <NUM> into stacks <NUM> of crates <NUM> or take one or more crates <NUM> from the stacks of crates <NUM>. Such a robotic device <NUM>, <NUM> is operated like a freely movable warehouse robot which is able to move and manipulate one or more crates <NUM> along any desirable (programmable) route within the climate chamber <NUM>. In an embodiment, the robotic device <NUM>, 86a, <NUM> may have steerable wheels <NUM>, 90a for achieving maximum degrees of freedom. The robotic device <NUM> can comprise a frame <NUM> or carrier <NUM> configured to travel along the rail(s), and a robot unit 86a configured to travel along the runners in the channel <NUM> formed by the ledges 14a.

The climate chamber <NUM> of the invention and the system <NUM> of the invention comprising the climate chamber <NUM> are particularly suitable for application in the method of the invention.

The crate <NUM> of the invention is particularly suitable for application in the method of the invention.

The crate <NUM> of the invention is particularly suitable for use in the climate chamber of the invention and for use in the climate chamber of the invention.

Thus, in summary, a second aspect of the invention relates to a method for rearing invertebrates, the method comprising the steps of: (i) providing a plurality of crates, each crate having a first opening in a first wall and a second opening in a second wall opposite the first opening to define a first air flow path between the first and second openings; (ii) filling at least a portion of each crate of the plurality of crates with a substrate and a plurality of invertebrates at a first developmental stage; (iii) stacking the plurality of crates; (iii) providing a climate chamber comprising: an internal volume enclosed by walls, a floor, and a ceiling; a first row of a plurality of air outlets extending in a first direction within the internal volume; a first row of a plurality of air inlets located next to the first row of air outlets, and extending parallel thereto, and spaced apart from the first row of air outlets in a second direction, perpendicular to the first direction; wherein the air inlets and the air outlets are provided in the ceiling of the climate chamber; at least one first stack of crates arranged in a space between the first row of air outlets and the first row of air inlets; a conduit extending from each of the plurality of air inlets between the first stack of crates, said conduit comprising a plurality of conduit openings configured to align with inlet openings of the plurality of crates in each stack; (iv) positioning at least one stack of crates wherein the crates are arranged with the airflow path oriented perpendicular to the first direction and in the second direction; (v) applying a pressure differential between the air inlet and the air outlet, wherein air is pulled out of the climate chamber via a duct, wherein the air outlets are arranged along said duct and covered by the duct, which duct is configured to draw air from the climate chamber through the plurality of air outlets via a master outlet in fluid communication with the duct.

Referring to <FIG>, an embodiment is the method according to the invention, wherein in step (iii) the climate chamber <NUM> is provided by providing a system <NUM> according to the invention. An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein air is pulled out of the climate chamber via a duct <NUM>, and wherein the air outlets <NUM> are arranged along said duct <NUM>, which duct is configured to draw (pull, extract) air from the climate chamber <NUM> through the plurality of air outlets <NUM> via a master outlet <NUM>. Duct <NUM> is (optionally) in fluid connection with a driver 70a such as a pump 70a for pulling or extracting or drawing air out of the climate chamber through air outlet openings <NUM>, the duct <NUM> and master air outlet <NUM>. Pulling air out of the climate chamber with the duct aids in creating under pressure at the side of the crates opposing the side of the crates near the openings <NUM> of the conduits <NUM>, such that maintenance of the flow of air <NUM> along air flow path 80a is supported. An embodiment is the method according to the invention, wherein air is pushed into the climate chamber <NUM> via a second conduit <NUM> which is in fluid communication with the air inlets <NUM> and conduits connected thereto, and wherein the second conduit is configured to push air into the climate chamber. Pushing air into the climate chamber via the second conduit <NUM> (i.e. master inlet <NUM>) aids in creating overpressure at the side of the crates near the openings <NUM> of the conduits <NUM>, such that maintenance of the flow of air <NUM> along air flow path 80a is supported. Master inlet <NUM> is for example in fluid connection with a pump 74a or driver 74a for pushing air into void <NUM> and through air inlet openings <NUM> into conduits <NUM> (See <FIG>). In the embodiment of <FIG>, the drivers 70a and 70b are positioned outside the void <NUM> comprised by the chamber <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, driver 70a and/or driver 74a is located inside void <NUM>, although the embodiment displayed in <FIG> is preferred.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the climate chamber further comprises at least one track extending in the first direction with the climate chamber, said track comprising a first wall and a second wall, and a channel defined there between.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the at least one track is positioned between the first row of air outlets and the row of air inlets, and wherein the climate chamber (system) preferably comprises a second track positioned between the row of air inlets and the second row of air outlets.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the at least one track comprises a pair of walls separated from each other by a channel, said channel extending in a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction; and optionally, wherein the at least one stack of crates is arranged on the tracks such that the airflow path extends in the first direction.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the pair of walls comprise solid, opposing walls, arranged parallel to each other.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein each of the walls is a solid wall and separates the channel from an adjacent gutter.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the method further comprises providing a plurality of air inlets and a plurality of air outlets, and positioning at least one stack of crates between an air inlet and an air outlet aligned with each other in the first direction.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the method further comprises: sensing, using at least one sensor, an environmental condition within one or more of the plurality of crates, wherein the sensed environmental condition can comprise one or more of: temperature; humidity; oxygen concentration; carbon dioxide concentration; pressure; and air flow.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, further comprising controlling at least one of the following parameters based on the sensed environmental conditions within the crates: temperature;
humidity; oxygen concentration; carbon dioxide concentration; pressure at the inlet and/or outlet; and air flow.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the method further comprises arranging a plurality of stacks of crates in rows along the tracks, wherein each stack abuts an adjacent stack in the second direction.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the stacks are arranged in a <NUM> x <NUM> arrangement.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, further comprising, operating a robotic device to move along at least one track, wherein the robotic device is configured to: move at least one stack of crates along the tracks; detect environmental conditions within the channel; read information from at least one crate stacked above the channel.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, further comprising, operating a robotic device to freely move and: place one or more crates into the first and/or the second stack of crates, or take one or more crates from the first and/or the second stack of crates.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, wherein the method further comprises conveying a robotic device in the second direction, in front of the open end of the channels, wherein the climate chamber comprises at least one rail extending in the second direction adjacent open ends of the at least one track wherein the at least one rail is configured to convey the robotic device, optionally the robotic device comprises a frame or carrier configured to travel along the rail(s), and comprises a robot unit configured to travel along the at least one track or along the runners in the channel formed by the ledges.

An embodiment is the method of the invention, further comprising running a robot device or manned lifting device along runners provided by the at least one track comprising a ledge on an internal surface of the upstanding wall with respect to the channel.

In summary, a further aspect of the invention relates to an invertebrate rearing crate configured for use in the system of the invention or in the method of the invention, wherein the crate comprises a base, upstanding side walls and upstanding end walls defining a perimeter around the base, and at least one sensor mounting region arranged in the base of the crate.

An embodiment is the invertebrate rearing crate according to the invention, wherein the base further comprises a plurality of sensors arranged in the base of the crate.

An embodiment is the invertebrate rearing crate according to the invention, wherein the crate further comprises at least one projection in an upper edge surface thereof, and at least a corresponding recess in a lower edge region, the recess being configured to receive a projection of a further crate stacked thereupon.

An embodiment is the invertebrate rearing crate according to the invention, wherein the crate further comprises a first receiving portion configured to receive a removable identification tag, e.g. an RFID tag.

An embodiment is the invertebrate rearing crate according to the invention, wherein the crate further comprises a second receiving portion positioned on an opposing side of the crate in a corresponding position, such that the position of the second receiving portion maps the position of the first receiving portion when the crate is rotated <NUM> degrees about a vertical axis.

An embodiment is the invertebrate rearing crate according to the invention, wherein the second receiving portion comprises an identification tag, e.g. an RFID tag.

It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments described above are exemplary configurations of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting. Rather, the examples described herein are intended to illustrate exemplary ways in which the invention may be put into effect.

The skilled person will understand that modifications can be made without departing from the scope of invention, which is defined by the appended claims.

Moreover, terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention.

The terms 'a' and 'an', as used in the present disclosure, are intended to mean one, or more than one. The term 'plurality', as used herein, is defined as two, or more than two.

The terms comprising, including and/or having, as used herein, are intended to mean 'including but not limited to', and a system, device or method comprising certain features and/or steps may include additional features and/or steps. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims or the invention.

Claim 1:
A system (<NUM>) for rearing invertebrates, the system comprising:
a plurality of crates (<NUM>) arranged into at least one stack (<NUM>), each crate (<NUM>) in the stack defining an airflow path (80a) there through from an inlet opening (<NUM>) in a first wall (<NUM>) to an outlet opening (<NUM>) in a second wall (<NUM>) opposite the first wall;
a climate chamber (<NUM>, 2a, 2b) comprising:
an internal volume enclosed by walls (<NUM>, <NUM>), a floor, and a ceiling (<NUM>);
a first row of a plurality of air outlets (<NUM>) extending in a first direction (1st) within the internal volume;
a first row of a plurality of air inlets (<NUM>) located next to the first row of air outlets (<NUM>), and extending parallel thereto, and spaced apart from the first row of air outlets (<NUM>) in a second direction (<NUM>nd), perpendicular to the first direction (1st),
at least one first stack (<NUM>) of crates (<NUM>) arranged in a space between the first row of air outlets (<NUM>) and the first row of air inlets (<NUM>);
a conduit (<NUM>) extending from each of the plurality of air inlets (<NUM>) along the first stack (<NUM>) of crates (<NUM>), said conduit (<NUM>) comprising a plurality of conduit openings (<NUM>) configured to align with inlet openings (<NUM>) of the plurality of crates (<NUM>) in the stack (<NUM>);
wherein the crates (<NUM>) are arranged with the airflow path (80a) oriented perpendicular to the first direction (1st),
wherein the plurality of air outlets (<NUM>) are arranged along a duct (<NUM>) and covered by the duct (<NUM>), and wherein the duct (<NUM>) is configured to draw air from the climate chamber (<NUM>, 2a, 2b) through the plurality of air outlets (<NUM>) via a master outlet (<NUM>) in fluid communication with the duct (<NUM>),
characterized in that
the air inlets (<NUM>) and the air outlets (<NUM>) are provided in the ceiling (<NUM>) of the climate chamber (<NUM>, 2a, 2b).