A separating and pivoting device and methods of use thereof

Abstract

A separating and pivoting device is provided for use with a beehive having an upper hive box and a lower hive box. The device includes at least one support frame member pivotally mountable to the lower hive box of the beehive; at least one separating bracket pivotally coupled to the support frame member, defining a pivot point and mountable to the upper hive box of the beehive; and a support pivotally coupled to the support frame member and pivotable between a stowage position and an operable position for supporting the support fame member relative to a support surface. In use, pivoting of the support to the operable position causes the separating bracket to separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box. The upper hive box is pivotable relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point for accessing contents of the lower hive box.

Description

A SEPARATING AND PIVOTING DEVICE AND METHODS OF USE THEREOFTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a separating and pivoting 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, and in some jurisdictions a regulatory requirement, 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 hive 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 five 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 “glueing” 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] The inventors have previously disclosed a separating and lifting device for a beehive through WO 2023 / 023751 , which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. However, the inventors have recognised that the disclosed device is not optimal and that the device can be further enhanced.

[0011] 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

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention provide a separating and pivoting 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.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a separating and pivoting device for use with a beehive for separating and pivoting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: at least one support frame member having a support end and an opposed hive end, said hive end being pivotally mountable to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; at least one separating bracket pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member at or near the hive end defining a pivot point and mountable to the upper hive box at the first end of the beehive; and a support pivotally coupled to the support end of the at least one support frame member for supporting the at least one support fame member relative to the support surface,said support pivotable relative to the at least one support frame member between at least a stowage position and an operable position for engagement with the support surface, wherein, in use, pivoting of the support to the operable position pivots the at least one support frame member upwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and causes the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box, and wherein the upper hive box is pivotable relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point for access to a contents of the lower hive box.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a separating and pivoting device for use with a beehive for separating and pivoting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: at least one support frame member having a support end and an opposed hive end pivotally mountable to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; at least one separating bracket pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member at or near the hive end defining a pivot point and mountable to the upper hive box at the first end of the beehive; and a support pivotally coupled to the support end of the at least one support frame member for supporting the at least one support fame member relative to the support surface, said support pivotable relative to the at least one support frame member between at least a stowage position and an operable position for engagement with the support surface, wherein, in use, the at least one support frame is pivoted upwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive to pivot the support to the operable position contemporaneously causing the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box, and wherein the upper hive box is pivotable relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point for access to a contents of the lower hive box.

[0015] Preferably, wherein the at least one support frame is pivoted upwards relative to the lower hive box to a substantially horizontal orientation.

[0016] Advantageously, the present invention provides an easy to use separating and pivoting 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 pivoted with relative ease using the separating bracket and the class II lever formed by the support frame member. When a hive inspection is concluded, the device enables the upper hive box to be easily lowered atop the lower hive box without need for re-alignment and the device may then be readily disassembled from the beehiveand fitted to another beehive or stowed.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The opposed end walls of the stacked hive boxes may define a first end and an opposed second end of the beehive.

[0022] The opposed sidewalls of the stacked hive boxes may define opposed sides of the beehive.

[0023] Each hive box may include a plurality of frames that are generally hung parallel to one another within the box in a spaced arrangement.

[0024] 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.

[0025] Accordingly, the frames located in the brood box may typically contain brood and the frames located in the honey supers may contain honey.

[0026] The beehive may generally include a bottom board defining an entrance for the bees and atop of which the lower hive box is stacked.

[0027] 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.

[0028] In some embodiments, the beehive may further include a hive stand for supporting the beehive atop a support surface.

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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 pivoting 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.

[0031] The device may be configured to have a stowage position in which all components or parts thereof are folded for stowage in a container and an operable position in which all components or parts thereof are in position for engagement with a beehive and / or support surface. The individual movement of each part or component thereof between stowage and operable positions will be described later. When in a folded position, the device may be stowed in any suitable container, such as, e.g., a bag.

[0032] The device may be configured to be used with a beehive having any one of two, three or four hive boxes stacked atop one another, preferably at most three hive boxes. In such scenarios, the device may be used to separate and pivot any adjacent pair of hive boxes in the beehive having a lower hive box and an upper hive box.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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, preferably metal material or materials.

[0035] The device may be of unitary construction or may be formed from two or more lifting device pieces, typically the latter.

[0036] 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, preferably the pivot point. 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 110°, 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°.

[0037] The pivot point may be located at any suitable location at or near the hive end of the at least one support frame, typically at a location at which the at least one separating bracket is pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame.

[0038] As indicated, the device includes a support for supporting the at least one support frame member (and the device) relative to a support surface, preferably for stabilising the beehive while the upper hive box is separate and / or pivoted to a raised position relative to the lower hive box.

[0039] Generally, the support may include an elongate 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.

[0040] The lower end may be configured to engage with the support surface.

[0041] The opposed upper end may be pivotally connectable to the support end of the at least one support frame member.

[0042] The elongate body may be of tubular or solid construction, preferably the former.

[0043] The elongate body may be defined by at least one sidewall, preferably four sidewalls such that the elongate body has a substantially rectangular profile shape, although a circular profile shape is also envisaged.

[0044] The support may be of fixed height as defined between the opposed ends or may be adjustable, preferably the latter.

[0045] In preferred embodiments, the height of the support may be adjustable by a telescopic arrangement. For example, the support may include at least two telescopic support portions slidable relative to each other between a retracted position and an extended position to thereby adjust a height of support, preferably three telescopic support portions.

[0046] It is envisaged that the support may be extendable to a height to enable an uppermost hive box in a stacked three-hive box beehive to be pivoted relative to the lower hiveboxes.

[0047] In such embodiments, the support may further include a retaining mechanism for retaining the support portions at a set height.

[0048] For example, in some such embodiments, the support portions may be locked relative to one another at a set height by a locking pin extending through co-aligned holes defined in overlapping sidewalls of the portions. The locking pin may be conventional locking pin or may be a spring-loaded locking pin.

[0049] In other embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a first part associated with one of the support portions and a second part connectable to the first part and associated with another of the support portions.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] In 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.

[0053] In yet 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. The clamping device may include a spring-loaded clamping lever having a clamping tongue defined at a first end, a lever handle defined at an opposed second end for moving the tongue between engaged and disengaged positions and pivot point defined therebetween. The clamping device may include one or more springs for biasing the clamping tongue to the engaged position.

[0054] The clamping tongue may be configured to be at least partially received in one ormore corresponding slots defined in and along a height of the sidewall of the support portion being clamped, preferably in a spaced arrangement.

[0055] In some such embodiments, the pivot point may include a bore extending laterally through the clamping lever for receiving a pivot pin therethrough for pivotally coupling the clamping lever to a support portion. The bore may preferably be widened so as to reduce a shear force being applied against the pivot pin, when under load.

[0056] In preferred embodiments, the support may include three telescopic support portions, including an upper support portion, a middle support portion configured to telescopically receive the upper support portion and a lower support portion configured to telescopically receive the middle support portion. Retaining mechanisms may be associated with the upper ends of the middle and lower support portions for retaining the telescopic portions relative to one another at a set height.

[0057] 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 the support surface. The foot may be formed from rubber, plastic or metal material or materials.

[0058] In some embodiments, the foot may include a flanged lower portion for at least partially stabilising the support relative to the support surface.

[0059] In other embodiments, the foot may include an elongate structure centrally mounted to the lower end of the support and extending substantially perpendicularly to the support.

[0060] In such embodiments, the foot may include a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween. The opposed ends may extend perpendicularly to either side of the lower end of the support.

[0061] The elongate body may be of tubular or solid construction, preferably the former.

[0062] The elongate body may be defined by at least one wall, preferably three walls. The four walls may include a bottom wall and opposed side sidewalls.

[0063] The bottom wall, or support surface facing wall, of the elongate body may be configured to engage with the support surface.

[0064] In some embodiment, foot may include a grip sock configured to at least partially encapsulate the elongate body and provide better grip when engaging with a support surface.The grip sock may be formed from a resiliently deformable material or materials, such as, e.g., rubber, silicone or a soft plastic, preferably rubber.

[0065] In some such embodiments, the foot may be foldable relative to the support between a stowage position in which the foot is folded against the support and an operable position in which the foot extends perpendicularly to the support for engagement with the support surface. The foot may be foldable in any suitable way.

[0066] Generally, the foot may be coupled to the lower end of the support by a pivotal coupling or hinged arrangement at a location about mid-way along the foot thereby enabling the foot to be foldable relative to the support between the stowage and operable positions.

[0067] In some such embodiments, the pivotal coupling or hinged arrangement may include one or more biasing members or mechanisms for biasing the foot towards the operable position. For example, in some such embodiments, movement of the foot to the operable position may work under a biasing force of the one or more biasing members or mechanisms.

[0068] The one or more biasing members or mechanisms may include one or more springs, such as, e.g., coil springs.

[0069] In some embodiments, the pivotal coupling or hinged arrangement may further include a retaining mechanism or arrangement for retaining the foot in the operable position. Any suitable retaining mechanism or arrangement may be used.

[0070] In preferred such embodiments, the foot may be pivotally coupled to the end of the support. The foot may include a pair of opposed lugs extending upwardly from the opposed sidewalls of the foot, each lug having an elongate opening defined therein for receiving a pivot pin operatively associated with the lower end of the support therethrough. The elongate openings may extend perpendicularly to a longitudinal length of the foot thereby enabling the pivot pin to travel laterally within the elongate openings and the lugs to be at least partially received in the lower end of the support and retain the foot in the operable position relative to the support when under load.

[0071] 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.

[0072] In other embodiments, the support may bifurcate from the upper end to the lower end.

[0073] 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.

[0074] The at least one support frame member may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[0075] 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.

[0076] The pair of opposed ends may include a support end pivotally coupled to the support and an opposed hive end pivotally mountable to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive.

[0077] The elongate body may be of tubular or solid construction, preferably the former.

[0078] The elongate body may be defined by at least one wall extending between the opposed ends, preferably four walls such that the elongate body has a substantially rectangular profile shape, although a circular profile shape is also envisaged. The four walls may include a top wall, an opposed bottom wall and opposed sidewalls, including an inner sidewall and an opposed outer sidewall.

[0079] A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the at least one support frame member extends forward to the beehive to space the support from the first end to at least partially stabilise the beehive relative to the support surface, particularly when an upper hive box is pivoted relative to the lower hive box to a raised or open position.

[0080] Apart from stabilising the upper hive box when pivoted relative to the lower hive box, the at least one support frame member may function as a mechanical lever when pivoted upwards relative to the lower hive box to drive movement of the at least one separating bracket for initially separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box prior to pivoting the upper hive box towards the at least one support frame member.

[0081] 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.

[0082] In some embodiments, the at least one support frame may have an adjustablelength, such as, e.g., by a telescopic arrangement.

[0083] In other embodiments, the at least one support frame member may have a fixed length.

[0084] As indicated, the support end of the at least one support frame member and the upper end of the support may be pivotally coupled together such that the support may be pivotable relative to the at least one support frame between the stowage position in which the support may be folded against the at least one support frame member and the operable position for engagement with the support surface.

[0085] The support end of the at least one support frame member and the upper end of the support may be pivotally coupled together in any suitable way.

[0086] Generally, the upper end of the support and the support end of the at least one support frame member may be pinned together by a pivot pin received through co-aligned apertures.

[0087] The support may be pivotable between the stowage and the operable positions over any suitable range of movement about a horizontal pivot axis defined by the pivot pin.

[0088] For example, in some embodiments the range of movement about the horizontal pivot axis may be about 80°, about 85°, about 90°, about 95° or about 100° if the support is simply pivoted downwards relative the at least one support frame member once pivotally mounted to the first end of the lower hive box.

[0089] Conversely, in other embodiments, the support may be pivoted about a reflex angle range of movement about the horizontal pivot axis from the stowage position to the operable position, when the at least one support frame member is pivotally mounted to the first end of the lower hive box. In such embodiments, the support may be pivoted upwards and around to the operable position over a range of movement of about 260°, about 265°, about 270°, about 275° or about 280°.

[0090] In some embodiments, the support may further include a mechanical pivot stop to prevent over pivoting of the support relative to the at least one support frame member. Advantageously, the mechanical pivot stop may prevent the support from buckling when supporting a load of the beehive or at least a pivoted upper hive box.

[0091] As indicated, the opposed hive end of the at least one support frame member may be pivotally mountable to the lower hive box, preferably releasably.

[0092] In some embodiments, the hive 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 hive end of the at least one support frame member to the end or side of the lower hive box.

[0093] In other embodiments, the support frame member and the lower 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 support frame member and the lower hive box.

[0094] In some such embodiments, the connecting mechanism may include a first part associated with the hive end of the at least one support frame member and a second part connectable to the first part and associated with an end or side of the lower hive box.

[0095] 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.

[0096] In some such embodiments, the first part of the connecting mechanism associated with, or forming part of, the hive 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 at or near the first end.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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 hive end of the at least one support frame may include a mounting 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 to the lower hive box.

[0099] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket may be integrally formed with the hive end of the at least one support frame member.

[0100] In other preferred embodiments, the mounting bracket may be of separate construction and may be pivotally coupled to the hive end of the at least one support frame member by a pivotal coupling. The mounting bracket may be pivotable between a stowageposition in which the mounting bracket is folded against the support frame member and an operable position for engagement with the first end of the lower hive box.

[0101] Each protrusion may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[0102] 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 to the enlarged head or other type of retaining end.

[0103] 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.

[0104] For example, in some embodiments the shaped opening may have an inverted keyhole shape. 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.

[0105] In other embodiments, the shaped opening may include a sloping slot having an enlarged lower portion for receiving the enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough and a narrower and sloped upper portion configured to slide around, and be supported atop, the neck portion of the protrusion. Advantageously, by having a sloped upper portion relative to the enlarged lower portion, the risk of the protrusion inadvertently sliding out of engagement with the shaped opening is reduced.

[0106] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket associated with the hive end of the at least one support frame member may be 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 protrusion or protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall and / or the sidewall.

[0107] In other embodiments, the mounting bracket associated with the hive end of the at least one support frame member may be configured to abut against and be coupled to the first end wall of the lower hive box, preferably at or near a side of the end wall. In such embodiments, the protrusion or protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall.

[0108] In preferred embodiments, the mounting bracket may have a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit at least partially 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 mounting bracket may extend longitudinally at least partially along a height of the lower hive box. The one or more shaped openings may preferably be defined in the end wall abutting portion of the mounting bracket.

[0109] In preferred embodiments, the one or more protrusions may each be in the form of a mechanical fastener having a tip, an enlarged head and a shank extending therebetween. The shank may include a threaded portion located at or near the tip for being threadingly received in an end wall of the lower hive box.

[0110] In some embodiments, the pivotal coupling between the mounting bracket and the at least one support frame member may include one or more biasing members or mechanisms for biasing the mounting bracket towards the stowage position. For example, in some such embodiments, movement of the mounting bracket to the operable position may work against a biasing force of the one or more biasing members or mechanisms.[0011 1] The one or more biasing members or mechanisms may include one or more springs, such as, e.g., coil springs.

[0112] In some embodiments, the device may include more than one support frame member extending from the support and pivotally mountable to the lower hive box at the first end.

[0113] For example, in preferred embodiments, the device may include a pair of support frame members pivotally coupled to the support and connectable to the corners of the lower hive box at the first end.

[0114] In some such embodiments, the pair of support frame members may each be pivotable about a vertical axis at or near the support end so as to be pivotable towards and away from each other between a stowage position and an operable position, respectively.

[0115] In some such embodiments, the pair of support frame members may further be pivotable about a vertical axis near the hive end so as to enable the hive end portions of the support frame members to extend flush against the sides of the beehive when in the operable position.

[0116] In preferred such embodiments, each support frame member may include support end portion a hive end portion and a middle portion hingedly coupled to each of the support end portion and the hive end portion each by at least one hinge or part thereof. Each portion may be pivotable about a vertical axis relative to the other adjacent portions between the stowage position and the operable position about the axes of each of the at least one hinge.

[0117] 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.

[0118] In such embodiments, the at least one hinge may include a first hinge member defined on one of a first portion and an adjacent portion and a second hinge member hingedly connectable to the first hinge member and defined on the other of the first portion and the adjacent portion.

[0119] 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 support end portion and the remainder of the support frame member.

[0120] 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 adjacent portions together.

[0121] In some embodiments, each hinge may further include one or more pivot stops on either side of the at least one hinge to prevent over pivoting of one portion relative to another. The one or more pivot stops may be configured to enable the portions of the pair of support frame members to pivot away from each other from the stowage position to an operable position in which the frame members are spaced a correct distance from each other to accommodate a standard beehive received between the hive ends.

[0122] As indicated, the device includes at least one separating bracket pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame at or near the hive end of the at least one support frame member and mountable to the upper hive box at the first end of the beehive for separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box and for defining a pivot point for pivoting of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0123] The separating bracket may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials, typically metal material or materials.

[0124] Generally, and like the lower hive box, the end wall and / or an adjacent sidewall of the upper hive box may include one or more protrusions protruding outwardly therefrom and the at least one separating bracket may include one or more corresponding shaped openings defined thereon and configured to fit over the one or more protrusions and connect to the upper hive box.

[0125] The at least one separating bracket may be pivotally coupled near the hive end of the at least one support frame member, typically between about 100mm and about 250mm from the hive end. The separating bracket may be pivotally coupled in any suitable way, typically viaa pivot pin extending through the bracket into the sidewall of the support frame member, preferably the inner sidewall. The axis of the pivot pin preferably defines the pivot point.

[0126] The separating bracket may be pivotable between a stowage position in which the bracket folds rearwardly towards the support end and against the at least one support frame member and an operable position for engagement with the first end of the upper hive box.

[0127] In some embodiments, the separating bracket may be configured to at least partially fit about a corner defined between the end wall and an adjacent sidewall of the upper hive box. In such embodiments, the protrusion or protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall and / or the sidewall.

[0128] In other embodiments, the separating bracket may be configured to abut against and be coupled to the first end wall of the upper hive box, preferably at or near a side of the end wall. In such embodiments, the protrusion or protrusions may protrude outwardly from the end wall.

[0129] In preferred embodiments, the separating bracket may include an engagement portion having a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit at least partially about the corner including an end wall abutting portion and a sidewall abutting portion and a leg portion extending between the engagement portion and the at least one support frame member and pivotally coupled to the support frame member.

[0130] In some embodiments, the separating bracket may include a handle opening defined between the engagement portion and the leg portion for receiving a user’s hand or part thereof therethrough to assist when moving the separating bracket from the stowage position to the operable position. Additionally, the handle opening may assist when handling the device generally, such as, e.g., when picking the device up from a stowage position.

[0131] In some such embodiments, the handle opening may include a plastic lining extending about an inner periphery of the opening to protect a hand or part thereof from being cut on a bracket edge.

[0132] The plastic lining may protrude laterally at least to an outer side of the handle opening and may include one or more stepped portions configured to act as temporary stops when the separating bracket is in, or partially in the stowage position.

[0133] For example, the plastic lining may include a first stepped portion configured to temporarily retain the separating bracket in a partial stowage position in which the handle opening may be readily accessed.

[0134] The plastic lining may include a second stepped portion protruding outwardly further than the first stepped portion for preventing over pivoting of the separating bracket into the stowage position when the device is still mounted to a lower hive box and a load is received atop the at least one support frame member and the separating bracket.

[0135] Lastly, the plastic lining may include a third stepped portion protruding outwardly further than the second stepped portion for preventing over pivoting of the separating bracket relative to the at least one support frame member when the device is in the stowage position and a load is received atop the device, for example.

[0136] In some embodiments, the at least one separating bracket may further include a coating applied at least partially over the bracket to enhance a grip of the bracket when being handled by a user, preferably applied at least over the engagement portion of the bracket. The coating may be formed from a resiliently deformable material or materials, such as, e.g., rubber, silicone or a soft plastic, preferably rubber.

[0137] The engagement portion may extend longitudinally at least partially along a height of the upper hive box.

[0138] The engagement portion may include one or more shaped openings preferably defined in the end wall abutting portion for engagement with the one or more protrusions.

[0139] The one or more protrusions may each be in the form of a mechanical fastener as previously described having a tip, an enlarged head and a shank extending therebetween.

[0140] In some embodiments, the one or more shaped openings may each have a key-hole shape including an enlarged upper portion for receiving the enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough and a narrower lower portion configured to slide around and at least partially receive the neck portion of the protrusion.

[0141] In other embodiments, the one or more shaped openings may each have an enlarged upper portion for receiving the enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough and a narrower and sloping lower portion configured to slide around and at least partially receive the neck portion of the protrusion. Again, and advantageously, by having a sloped lower portion relative to the enlarged upper portion, the risk of the protrusion inadvertently sliding out of engagement with the shaped opening is reduced.

[0142] As indicated, the pivoting of the at least one support frame member to a substantially horizontal orientation for pivoting of the support to the operable position may cause the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive boxrelative to the lower hive box.

[0143] In such use, the at least one support frame member may function as a class 2 lever to move the separating bracket upwards to separate the upper hive box from the lower hive box.

[0144] The at least one separating bracket 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 first 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 first end. Preferably, the separating bracket 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 first end.

[0145] In some embodiments, the at least one separating bracket and the mounting bracket for engagement with the first end of the lower hive box may be mechanically associated such that movement of the at least one separating bracket to the operable position additionally drives the mounting bracket to pivot relative to the at least one support frame member at least partially towards the operable position.

[0146] The at least one separating bracket and the mounting bracket may be mechanically associated in any suitable way.

[0147] For example, in some such embodiments, the at least one separating bracket may further include a beak extending beyond the pivot point in a direction opposite the leg portion, the beak may be configured to act against the mounting bracket and drive pivoting of the mounting bracket at least partially towards the operable position (against the biasing force, if present), when the separating bracket is at least partially pivoted towards the operable position.

[0148] In use, it is envisaged that a user may pick the device from a stowage position by the handle opening defined in the separating brackets causing the separating bracket to at least partially pivot towards the operable position and in turn causing the beak of the separating brackets to act against the mounting brackets and cause the mounting brackets to at least partially pivot towards the operable position.

[0149] In some embodiments, the separating bracket and the mounting bracket may further include a retaining mechanism for temporarily retaining the mounting bracket in a partialoperable position.

[0150] The retaining mechanism may be of any suitable size, shape and form.

[0151] For example, in some such embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include an elongate slot defined in the mounting bracket and configured to at least partially receive at least a portion of the beak therein as the beak acts against and pivots against the mounting bracket.

[0152] Specifically, as the mounting bracket is rotated by the beak, the elongate slot comes into alignment and at least partially receives a portion of the beak therein to temporarily retain the mounting bracket in the partial operable position.

[0153] In other such embodiments, the retaining mechanism may include a ridge protruding from the mounting bracket and configured to abut against at least a portion of the beak after the beak initially causes the mounting bracket to at least partially pivot towards the operable position.

[0154] Specifically, as the mounting bracket is rotated by the beak, the ridge comes into engagement with the portion of the beak to temporarily retain the mounting bracket in the partial operable position.

[0155] Advantageously, the temporary retention of the mounting bracket in at least the partial operable position facilitates a user mounting the mounting bracket to the first end of the lower hive box by removing the need to manually retain the mounting bracket in the operable position for engagement.

[0156] In use, mounting of the mounting bracket to the lower hive box may disengage the retaining mechanism. For example, in some such embodiments, mounting of the mounting bracket to the lower hive box may move the ridge out of alignment with the portion of the beak enabling the at least one separating bracket to pivot fully towards the operable position.

[0157] In some embodiments, the device may further include at least one handle member configured to be releasably mountable to the upper hive box and extend outwards from the opposed second end of the beehive to assist in pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point.

[0158] The at least one handle member may be of any suitable size, shape and construction.

[0159] 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.

[0160] The opposed ends may include a mounting end configured to be mountable to the end or side of the upper hive box at the second end of the beehive and an opposed outer end defining a handle portion.

[0161] The elongate body may be of tubular or solid construction.

[0162] The elongate body may be defined by at least one sidewall extending between the opposed ends, preferably four sidewalls 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.

[0163] The handle 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 or about 1 ,200mm or more. Typically, the at least one handle member may have a length ranging from about 600mm to about 1 ,200mm.

[0164] In some embodiments, the at least one handle member may have an adjustable length, such as, e.g., a telescopic or a sliding arrangement.

[0165] 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.

[0166] In some embodiments, the handle portion may include a grip for assisting a user in gripping and holding the handle portion.

[0167] The grip may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials.

[0168] 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.

[0169] 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.

[0170] The mounting end of the handle member may be directly or indirectly mountable to the upper hive box, preferably indirectly via handle member bracket.

[0171] The handle member bracket may be of any suitable size, shape and constructionand may be releasably connectable to the upper hive box in any suitable way. Likewise, the handle member bracket may be operatively associated with the handle member in any suitable.

[0172] Typically, the handle member bracket may be a corner bracket coupled to an inner sidewall of the bracket and configured to at least partially fit about a corner of the upper hive box at the second end.

[0173] Like the mounting bracket and the separating bracket, the handle member bracket may include one or more shaped openings defined therein and configured to fit over one or more protrusions protruding from the upper hive box at or near the second end for connecting the handle member to the upper hive box.

[0174] As before, 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 to the enlarged head or other type of retaining end.

[0175] 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. Typically, the shaped opening may have a key-hole shape. For example, the shaped opening may include an enlarged upper portion for receiving the enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough and a narrower lower portion configured to receive and slide around the neck portion of the protrusion.

[0176] The handle member bracket may have a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit at least partially about a corner of the upper hive box at the second end and may include an end wall abutting portion and a sidewall abutting portion orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutting portion. The handle member bracket may extend longitudinally at least partially along a height of the upper hive box. The one or more shaped openings may preferably be defined in the end wall abutting portion of bracket for engaging with one or more protrusions protruding from the sides of the end wall.

[0177] In some embodiments, the handle member bracket may be pivotally coupled to an inner sidewall of the handle member at or near the mounting end by a threaded fastener. The handle member bracket may be pivotable about the threaded fastener between a stowage position and an operable position. When fitted to the corner of the upper hive box, the threaded fastener may be tightened to tighten the engagement of the handle member bracket to the protrusion and to the handle member.

[0178] In some embodiments, the device may include a pair of handle members ashereinbefore described for fitting to either side of the upper hive at the second end.

[0179] The container for storing the device when in the stowage position may preferably further accommodate at least one handle member.

[0180] In some embodiments, the mounting brackets, the separating brackets and / or the handle member brackets may further include one or more cutouts defined therein for accommodating any mechanical fasteners protruding from the upper or lower hive boxes other than the one or more protrusions for mounting purposes.

[0181] In some embodiments, the at least one support frame member may further include one or more scratch plates extending between a sidewall of the frame member and the mounting bracket and / or separating bracket to prevent, or at least minimise, damage to the frame member as the brackets move to the stowage position repeatedly. The one or more scratch plates may preferably be formed of metal material or materials. The one or more scratch plates may preferably be mounted to inner sidewalls of the pair of support frame members.

[0182] In some embodiments, the top wall of the at least one support frame member may further include one or more supports defined thereon for supporting the upper hive box when pivoted relative to the lower hive box and resting against the at least one support frame member.

[0183] The one or more supports may be formed from a resiliently deformable material, such as, e.g., rubber or soft plastic.

[0184] In some embodiments, the support of the device may further include a stand extending from the upper end of the support for supporting two or more upper hive boxes when pivoted relative to a lower hive box, when the support is in the operable position.

[0185] The stand may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from any suitable material or materials.

[0186] The stand may be of unitary or separate construction with the support, preferably separate construction.

[0187] Generally, the stand may include a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween, preferably in a linear orientation.

[0188] The opposed ends may include an upper end configured to support two or more upper hive boxes thereon and opposed lower end connected to, or extending from, the upper end of the support.

[0189] The elongate body may be of tubular or solid construction, preferably the former.

[0190] The elongate body may be defined by at least one sidewall extending between the opposed ends.

[0191] The stand may have a length of about 50mm to about 150mm.

[0192] In some embodiments, the stand may be of an adjustable height, such as, e.g., by a telescopic or sliding arrangement.

[0193] In some embodiments, the stand may be hinged connected to the upper end of the support, or a part thereof, by at least one hinge or part thereof and the stand may be pivotable between a concealed position when the support is in the stowage position and an erect position when the support is in the operable position.

[0194] Specifically, the support may pivot towards the stand when in the stowage position such that the stand is folded against the support and concealed.

[0195] Conversely, when the support is pivoted about the reflex angle range of movement to the operable position, the support may pivot away from the stand such that the stand stands erect extending from the upper end of the support.

[0196] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of fitting a separating and pivoting device relative to a beehive for separating and pivoting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of the beehive, said method including: mounting a hive end of at least one support frame member to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; mounting at least one separating bracket pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member at or near the hive end defining a pivot point to the upper hive box at the first end of the beehive; pivoting a support pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member at a support end opposite the hive end from at least a stowage position to an operable position for engagement with support surface for supporting the support frame member relative to the support surface, wherein pivoting of the support to the operable position pivots that least one support frame upwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and causes the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box to facilitate pivoting of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point.

[0197] The method may include one or more features or characteristics of the separating and pivoting device as hereinbefore described.

[0198] The mounting may include aligning the shaped openings of the mounting bracket and the separating bracket relative to the one or more protrusions protruding from the first end of the lower and upper hive boxes, respectively.

[0199] The mounting may further include pressing the key-hole openings over the enlarged head of the protrusion such that the narrow portion may then slide about the neck of the protrusion.

[0200] The pivoting includes raising the at least one support frame relative to the lower hive box until has a substantially horizontal orientation and then pivoting the support to the operable position.

[0201] As indicated, the pivoting of the support may include pivoting the support over the reflex angle of movement from the stowage position to the operable position.

[0202] The raising of the at least one support frame member preferably causes the at least one separating bracket to separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

[0203] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of separating and pivoting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of a beehive with a fitted separating and pivoting device according to the first or second aspects, said method including: pivoting the support to the operable position so as to cause the at least one support frame member to pivot upwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and cause the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box; and pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point to a raised position.

[0204] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of aligning and lowering an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of a beehive with a fitted separating and pivoting device according to the first or second aspects, said method including: pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point to a lowered position; and pivoting the support to the stowage position so as to cause the at least one support frame to pivot downwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and cause the at least one separating bracket to move downwards and lower the upper hive box relative tothe lower hive box.

[0205] Typically, the pivoting downwards of the at least one support frame may occur contemporaneously with the pivoting of the support to the stowage position.

[0206] In preferred embodiments, the pivoting may be controlled by a user gripping the foot of the support as a handle and using the foot to gradually lower the at least one support frame relative to the lower hive box in a controlled manner.

[0207] Advantageously, the use of the foot as a handle enables the user to lower the upper hive relative to the lower hive in a controlled manner with a single hand freeing the other hand to use a brush or smoker to brush or smoke bees out of the way of the upper edge of the lower hive box.

[0208] Additionally, the controlled pivoting of the at least one support frame downwards and contemporaneous downward movement of the separating bracket advantageously ensures that the upper hive box returns to its initial position aligned atop the lower hive box without the need for any alignment.

[0209] 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.

[0210] 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

[0211] 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:

[0212] Figure 1 is an upper perspective view of a separating and pivoting device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0213] Figure 2 is a photograph showing the device as shown in Figure 1 being fitted to a beehive;

[0214] Figure 3 is a photograph showing separating brackets of the device as shown inFigures 1 and 2 being fitted to an upper hive box of the beehive;

[0215] Figure 4 is a photograph showing support frame members of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 3 being pivoted upwards by a foot of an associated support to separate the upper hive box from a lower hive box of the beehive;

[0216] Figure 5 is a photograph showing the support of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 4 engaging with a support surface and the upper hive box separated from the lower hive box by the separating brackets;

[0217] Figure 6 is a photograph of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 5 with the upper hive box pivoted to a raised position relative to the lower hive box and resting atop the support frame members of the device (note, the two upper hive boxes are shown taped together for illustrative purposes);

[0218] Figure 7 is a photograph of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 6 in a folded stowage position and contained in a storage bag;

[0219] Figure 8 is a side view of the support of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 7;

[0220] Figure 9 is a photograph showing a magnified view of a retaining mechanism of the support as shown in Figure 8;

[0221] Figures 10A and 10B are photographs respectively showing the foot of the support of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 9 in a stowage position and an operable position;

[0222] Figures 11 A and 11 B are photographs showing a mechanical association between the mounting brackets and the separating brackets of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 9, 10A and 10B;

[0223] Figure 12 is a photograph showing a handle member of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 9, 10A, 10B, 11 A and 1 1 B fitted to an opposite end of the hive to assist when pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box;

[0224] Figure 13 is a photograph showing a stand of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 9, 10A, 10B, 11 A, 1 1 B and 12 for supporting stacked upper hive boxes when pivoted relative to the lower hive box to the raised position; and

[0225] Figure 14 is a photograph showing a mounting bracket of the device as shown in Figures 1 to 9, 10A, 10B, 11 A, 1 1 B, 12 and 13 releasably mounted to a first end of a lower hive body of a beehive.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0226] Figures 1 to 9, 10A, 10B, 1 1 A, 11 B and 12 to 14 show a separating and pivoting device (100) and parts thereof according to embodiments of the present invention for use in separating and pivoting an upper hive box (910) relative to a lower hive box (920) of a beehive (900).

[0227] Referring to Figure 1 , the separating and pivoting device (100) includes a pair of support frame members (110) each having a support end (112) and an opposed hive end (1 14) and pivotally mountable to a lower hive box (920; not shown) at a first end of the beehive (900; not shown) via mounting bracket (120).

[0228] Each support frame member (1 10) includes a separating bracket (130) pivotally coupled near the hive end (114) defining a pivot point (800) and mountable to the upper hive box (910; not shown) at the first end of the beehive (900; not shown).

[0229] The device (100) further includes a support (140) pivotally coupled to the support ends (1 12) of the pair of support frame members (110) for supporting the frame members (110) relative to a support surface. The support (140) is pivotable relative to the support frame members (1 10) between a stowage position (not shown) and an operable position (shown) for engagement with a support surface.

[0230] In use, the support frame members (1 10) is pivoted upwards to a substantially horizontal orientation when pivoting the support (140) to the operable position causing the separating brackets (130) to contemporaneously move upwards and partially separate the upper hive box (910; not shown) from the lower hive box (920).

[0231] The upper hive box (910; not shown) is then pivotable relative to the lower hive box (920; not shown) about the pivot point (800) for access to the contents of the lower hive box (920; not shown).

[0232] The use of the device (100) will now be briefly described with reference to Figures 2 to 6.

[0233] Referring to Figure 2, the device (100) is oriented relative to an end of the beehive (900) such that mounting brackets (120) can be releasably mounted to a first end of the lower hive box (920) of the beehive (900).

[0234] Referring to Figure 3, once the mounting bracket (120) are mounted, the separating brackets (130) are pivoted forward into engagement with a like first end of the upper hive box(910) of the beehive (900). The separating brackets (130), like the mounting brackets (120), are releasably mounted to the first end of the upper hive box (910).

[0235] Referring to Figure 4, once the mounting brackets (120) and the separating brackets (130) are mounted, the support (140) is rotated about a reflex angle range of movement from the stowage position to the operable position.

[0236] The support (140) is pivoted upwards and around to the operable position over a range of movement of about 260°, about 265°, about 270°, about 275° or about 280°.

[0237] Referring to Figure 5, when rotating the support (140) to the operable position, the support frame members (110) are pivoted upwards causing the separating brackets (130) to move upwards and partially separate the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box (920).

[0238] Referring to Figure 6, once separated, the upper box (910) is then able to be pivoted to a raised position relative to the lower hive box (920) in a controlled manner about the pivot point (800) defined by the pivotal coupling of the separating brackets (130) to the support frame members (110). Note, in this figure the device (100) is shown pivoting two upper hive boxes (910) relative to the lower hive box (920).

[0239] As shown, the device (100) is capable of providing a range of movement of an upper hive box (910) relative to a lower hive box (920) of between about 75° and about 85° about the pivot point (800).

[0240] Advantageously, the device (100) also enables the upper hive box (910) to be lowered relative to the lower hive box (920) in a controlled manner without the need for realignment.

[0241] Referring briefly to Figure 7, the device (100) is configured to have a stowage position in which all components or parts thereof are folded for stowage in a container, such as, e.g., a bag (710) as shown, and an operable position in which all components or parts thereof are in position for engagement with a beehive (900; not shown) and / or support surface. The individual movement of each part or component thereof between stowage and operable positions will be described later.

[0242] Referring to Figure 8, the device (100) includes a support (140) for supporting the support frame members (110; not shown) relative to a support surface and for stabilising a beehive (900; not shown) while an upper hive box (910; not shown) is pivoted to a raised position relative to a lower hive box (920; not shown).

[0243] The support (140) includes a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween. The opposed ends include a lower end (142) and an opposed upper end (144).

[0244] As indicated, the upper end (144) is pivotally connectable to the support ends (112; not shown) of the support frame members (1 10; not shown).

[0245] The elongate body is formed by three support portions arranged in a telescopic arrangement so as to be height adjustable.

[0246] Specifically, the elongate body includes an upper support portion (145), a middle support portion (146) configured to telescopically receive the upper support portion (145) and a lower support portion (147) configured to telescopically receive the middle support portion (146). Retaining mechanisms are associated with the upper ends of the middle and lower support portions (146, 147) for retaining the telescopic portions relative to one another at a set height.

[0247] Referring to Figure 9, the retaining mechanism includes a clamping device (150) for clamping the support portions relative to one another. The clamping device (150) includes a spring-loaded clamping lever (152) having a clamping tongue (154) defined at a first end, a lever handle (156) defined at an opposed second end for moving the tongue between engaged and disengaged positions and pivot point (158) defined therebetween. The clamping device (150) includes a spring (159) underneath the lever handle (156) for biasing the clamping device (150) into the engaged position.

[0248] The clamping tongue (154) is configured to be at least partially received in corresponding slots (155) defined in and along a height of a sidewall of the support portion being clamped in a spaced arrangement.

[0249] Referring to Figures 10A and 10B, the support (140) includes a foot (160) pivotally coupled to the lower end (142) of the support (140) for supporting the support (140) relative to a support surface.

[0250] The foot (160) includes an elongate structure centrally mounted to the lower end (142) of the support (140) and extending substantially perpendicularly to the support (140).

[0251] The foot (160) includes a pair of opposed ends (162) and an elongate body (164) extending longitudinally therebetween. The opposed ends (162) extend perpendicularly to either side of the lower end (142) of the support (140).

[0252] The elongate body (164) includes a bottom wall and opposed side sidewallsextending upwardly from the bottom wall.

[0253] A lower surface of the bottom wall is configured to engage with the support surface.

[0254] The foot (160) is foldable relative to the support (140) between a stowage position in which the foot is folded against the support (140) as shown in Figure 10A and an operable position in which the foot (160) extends perpendicularly to the support (140) for engagement with a support surface as shown in Figure 10B.

[0255] Referring to Figure 10A, the foot (160) includes a pair of opposed lugs (166) extending upwardly from the sidewalls of the foot (160). Each lug (166) has an elongate opening defined therein for receiving pivot pin operatively associated with the lower end (142) of the support (140) therethrough.

[0256] Referring to Figure 10B, the elongate openings extend perpendicularly to a longitudinal length of the foot (160) thereby enabling the pivot pin to travel laterally within the elongate openings and the lugs (166) to be at least partially received in the lower end (142) of the support (140) and retain the foot (160) in the operable position relative to the support (140) when under load.

[0257] Referring back to Figure 10A, the pivotal coupling includes a spring (168) for biasing the foot (160) towards the operable position.

[0258] Referring back to Figure 5, each of the pair of support frame members (110) includes a support end (112), an opposed hive end (114) and an elongate and articulated body extending therebetween.

[0259] The elongate body is of a tubular construction defined by four walls including a top wall, an opposed bottom wall and opposed sidewalls, including an inner sidewall and an opposed outer sidewall.

[0260] Apart from stabilising an upper hive box (910) when pivoted relative to the lower hive box (920), the support frame members (1 10) function as a mechanical lever when pivoted upwards relative to the lower hive box (920) to drive movement of the separating brackets (130) for separating the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box (920).

[0261] The support ends (1 12) of the support frame members (110) are pivotally coupled to the upper end (144) of the support (140) by a pivot pin received through co-aligned apertures.

[0262] The support may be pivotable between the stowage and the operable positions overany suitable range of movement about a horizontal pivot axis defined by the pivot pin.

[0263] The opposed hive ends (1 14) of the support frame members (1 10) are pivotally and releasably mountable to the lower hive box (920) via mounting brackets (120).

[0264] Referring briefly to Figure 1 , the mounting brackets (120) each have a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit at least partially about a corner of the hive (900; not shown) and may include an end wall abutting portion (122) and a sidewall abutting portion (124) orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutting portion (122).

[0265] In use, the mounting bracket (120) extends longitudinally at least partially along a height of the lower hive box (920; not shown).

[0266] Referring to Figure 14, the end wall abutting portion (122) of the bracket (120) includes a shaped opening (126) having an inverted key-hole shape configured to be fitted over a corresponding mounting point (170; i.e., protrusion) including an enlarged head (172), shank threadingly received within the end wall of the hive body (910,920) and a neck portion immediately proximal to the enlarged head (172).

[0267] In use, shaped opening (126) includes an enlarged lower portion for receiving the enlarged head (172) therethrough and a narrower upper portion configured to slide around, and be supported atop, the neck portion of the protrusion (170).

[0268] Referring back to Figure 1 , the mounting brackets (120) are pivotally coupled to the hive end (114) of each support frame member (1 10) and are pivotable between a stowage position in which the mounting bracket is folded against the support frame member (1 10) and an operable position for engagement with the first end of the lower hive box (920; not shown).

[0269] Each mounting bracket (120) includes a biasing member or mechanism biasing the mounting bracket (120) to the stowage position.

[0270] As shown, each support frame member (1 10) includes an elongate and articulated body extending therebetween. Specifically, each support frame member (110) includes a support end portion (1 12A), a hive end portion (114A) and a middle portion (115) hingedly coupled to each of the support end portion (1 12A) and the hive end portion (114A) each by at least one hinge or part thereof.

[0271] Each portion (1 12A, 1 14A, 1 15) is pivotable about a vertical axis relative to the other adjacent portions between a stowage position in which the support frame members (1 10) are pressed together and an operable position in which the support frame members (1 10) pivot awayfrom each other to enable the hive end portions (114A) of the support frame members (110) to extend flush against the sides of a beehive (900; not shown).

[0272] Referring briefly to Figure 5, the device (100) includes a separating bracket (130) pivotally coupled near the hive end (114) of each support frame member (110) for mounting to the upper hive box (910) at the first end of the beehive (900) and for separating the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box (920) and for defining the pivot point (800) for pivoting of the upper hive box (910) relative to the lower hive box (920) as shown in Figure 6.

[0273] Referring to Figure 1 , the separating bracket (130) is pivotally coupled between about 100mm and about 250mm from the hive end (114) of each support frame member (110).

[0274] The separating bracket (130) is pivotally coupled via a pivot pin extending through the bracket (130) into the inner sidewall of each support frame member (110). The axis of the pivot pin defines the pivot point (800).

[0275] The separating bracket (130) include an engagement portion (132) having a substantially L-shaped profile shape configured to fit at least partially about an upper hive box (910; not shown) corner including an end wall abutting portion (134) and a sidewall abutting portion (136) and a leg portion (138) extending between the engagement portion (132) and the support frame member (110) and pivotally coupled to the support frame member (110).

[0276] Referring to Figure 11 A, each separating bracket (130) includes a handle opening (180) defined between the engagement portion (132) and the leg portion (138) for receiving a user’s hand or part thereof therethrough to assist when moving the separating bracket (130) from the stowage position to the operable position or when generally handling the device (100).

[0277] As shown, the handle opening (180) includes a plastic lining (182) extending about an inner periphery of the opening (180) to protect a hand or part thereof from being cut on a bracket edge. The plastic lining (182) has defined steps enabling the separating bracket (130) to rest in a correct position for pack-up and picking it up. The steps engage with the support frame member (110).

[0278] Referring to Figure 3, and like the mounting bracket (120), the end wall abutting portion (134) includes a shaped opening (139) having a key-hole shape configured to be fitted over a corresponding mounting point (170) as previously described.

[0279] In use, shaped opening (139) includes an enlarged upper portion for receiving the enlarged head (172) therethrough and a narrower lower portion configured to slide around and receive the neck of the protrusion as shown in Figure 4.

[0280] As shown in Figure 5, the pivoting of the support frame members (110) to a substantially horizontal orientation for pivoting of the support (140) to the operable position causes the separating brackets (130) to move upwards and separate the upper hive box (910) relative to the lower hive box (920).

[0281] In such use, the support frame members (1 10) function as a class 2 lever to move the separating brackets (130) upwards to separate the upper hive box (910) from the lower hive box (920).

[0282] Referring again to Figure 11 A, the separating bracket (130) and the mounting bracket (120) on each support frame member (1 10) are mechanically associated such that movement of the separating bracket (130) to the operable position additionally drives the mounting bracket (120) to pivot relative to the support frame member (110) at least partially towards the operable position.

[0283] Specifically and with reference to Figure 11 B, the separating bracket (130) further includes a beak (210) extending beyond the pivot point (800) in a direction opposite the leg portion (138), the beak (210) is configured to act against the mounting bracket (120) and drive pivoting of the mounting bracket (120) partially towards the operable position (against the biasing force), when the separating bracket (130) is at least partially pivoted towards the operable position.

[0284] Referring back to Figure 11 A, in use it is envisaged that a user will pick the device (100) from a stowage position by the handle opening (180) defined in the separating brackets (130) causing the separating bracket (130) to at least partially pivot towards the operable position and in turn causing the beak (210) of the separating brackets (130) to act against the mounting brackets (120) and cause the mounting brackets (120) to at least partially pivot towards the operable position.

[0285] The separating bracket (130) and the mounting bracket (130) further include a retaining mechanism for temporarily retaining the mounting bracket (120) in a partial operable position.

[0286] Referring to Figure 11 B, the retaining mechanism included an elongate slot (212) defined in the mounting bracket (120) and configured to receive at least a portion of the beak (210) therein as the beak (210) acts against and pivots against the mounting bracket (120).

[0287] Specifically, as the mounting bracket (120) is rotated by the beak (210), the elongate slot (212) comes into alignment and at least partially receives a portion of the beak (210) thereinto temporarily retain the mounting bracket (120) in the partial operable position. Advantageously, the temporary retention of the mounting bracket (120) in the partial operable position facilitates a user mounting the mounting bracket (120) to the first end of the lower hive box (920) by removing the need to manually retain the mounting bracket (120) in the operable position for engagement.

[0288] Referring to Figure 12, the device (100) further include at least one handle member (230) configured to be releasably mountable to the upper hive box (910) and extend outwards from the opposed second end of the beehive (900) to assist in pivoting the upper hive box (910) relative to the lower hive box (920) about the pivot point (800; not shown).

[0289] The handle member (230) includes a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween.

[0290] The opposed ends include a mounting end (232) configured to be mountable to the upper hive box (910) at the second end of the beehive (900) and an opposed outer end (234) defining a handle portion.

[0291] The elongate body is defined by four sidewalls such that the elongate body has a substantially rectangular profile shape. The four sidewalls include an upper wall, an opposed lower wall and opposed sidewalls.

[0292] The handle portion is configured for a user to apply an upward or downward force to pivot the handle member (230) and the upper hive box (910) between the raised and lowered positions, respectively.

[0293] The handle portion includes a grip (236) for assisting a user in gripping and holding the handle portion.

[0294] The mounting end (232) includes handle member bracket (240) for releasably mounting to an end of the upper hive box (910).

[0295] The handle member bracket (240) is a corner bracket coupled to an inner sidewall of the handle member (230) and configured to partially fit about a corner of the upper hive box (910) at the second end.

[0296] Like the mounting bracket (120; not shown) and the separating bracket (130; not shown), the handle member bracket (240) includes a shaped opening having a key-hole shape defined therein and configured to fit over a mounting point (170; not shown) as previously described protruding from the upper hive box (910) at the second end.

[0297] The handle member bracket (240) is pivotally coupled to an inner sidewall of the handle member (230) at or near the mounting end (232) by a threaded fastener. The handle member bracket (240) is pivotable about the threaded fastener between a stowage position and an operable position. When fitted to the corner of the upper hive box (910), as shown, the threaded fastener is tightened to tighten the engagement of the handle member bracket (240) to the mounting point (170) and to the handle member (230).

[0298] Referring to Figure 13, the support (140) of the device (100) further includes a stand (250) extending from the upper end (144) of the support (140) for supporting two or more upper hive boxes (910; not shown) when pivoted relative to a lower hive box (920; not shown), when the support (140) is in the operable position.

[0299] The stand (250) includes a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween in a linear orientation.

[0300] The opposed ends include an upper end configured to support the two or more upper hive boxes (910; not shown) thereon and opposed lower end connected to, or extending from, the upper end (144) of the support (140).

[0301] The stand (250) has a length of about 50mm to about 150mm.

[0302] The stand (250) is hinged connected to the upper end (144) of the support (140), or a part thereof, by at least one hinge or part thereof and the stand (250) is pivotable between a concealed position when the support (140) is in the stowage position and an erect position when the support (140) is in the operable position.

[0303] Specifically, the support (140) pivots towards the stand (250) when in the stowage position such that the stand (250) is folded against the support (140) and concealed.

[0304] Conversely, when the support (140) is pivoted about the reflex angle range of movement to the operable position, the support (140) pivots away from the stand (250) such that the stand (250) stands erect extending from the upper end (144) of the support (140).

[0305] 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.

[0306] 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, theappearance 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.

[0307] 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

CLAIMS1. A separating and pivoting device for use with a beehive for separating and pivoting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box, said device including: at least one support frame member having a support end and an opposed hive end pivotally mountable to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; at least one separating bracket pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member at or near the hive end defining a pivot point and mountable to the upper hive box at the first end of the beehive; and a support pivotally coupled to the support end of the at least one support frame member for supporting the at least one support fame member relative to the support surface, said support pivotable relative to the at least one support frame member between at least a stowage position and an operable position for engagement with the support surface, wherein, in use, pivoting of the support to the operable position pivots the at least one support frame member upwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and causes the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box, and wherein the upper hive box is pivotable relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point for access to a content of the lower hive box.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one support frame member includes a mounting bracket pivotally coupled to the hive end of the support frame member for mounting to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the mounting bracket is pivotable between a stowage position in which the mounting bracket is folded against the support frame member and an operable position for mounting to the first end of the lower hive box.

4. The device of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the lower hive box includes one or more protrusions protruding outwardly therefrom and the mounting bracket includes one or more shaped openings or sloping slots configured to fit over the one or more protrusions and mount the mounting bracket to the lower hive box.

5. The device of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the mounting bracket is configured to at least partially fit about a corner defined between an end wall and an adjacent sidewall of the lower hive box.

6. The device of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the device includes a pair of support frame members pivotally coupled to the support and each having the mounting bracket formounting to the lower hive box at the first end.

7. The device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one separating bracket includes one or more shaped openings defined thereon and configured to be fit over one or more corresponding protrusions protruding from the upper hive box for mounting the at least one separate bracket to the upper hive box.

8. The device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one separating bracket is pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member by a pivot pin and wherein an axis of the pivot pin defines the pivot point.

9. The device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one separating bracket is pivotable between a stowage position in which the bracket folds rearwardly towards the support and against the at least one support frame member and an operable position for engagement with the first end of the upper hive box.

10. The device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the at least one separating bracket is configured to at least partially fit about a corner defined between an end wall and an adjacent sidewall of the upper hive box.11 . The device of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, in use, the at least one support frame functions as class 2 lever to move the at least one separating bracket upwards to separate the upper hive box from the lower hive box, when the at least one support frame member is pivoted upwards to pivot the support to the operable position.

12. The device of any one of claims 9 to 1 1 , wherein the at least one separating bracket and the mounting bracket are mechanically associated such that movement of at least one separating bracket to the operable position additionally drives the mounting bracket to pivot relative to the at least one support frame member towards a partial operable position.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the at least one separating bracket and the mounting bracket further include a retaining mechanism for temporarily retaining the mounting bracket in the partial operable position.

14. The device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the support includes a pair of opposed ends and an elongate body extending longitudinally therebetween, said opposed ends including a lower end and an opposed upper end.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein a height of the support is adjustable by a telescopic arrangement, said support including at least two telescopic support portions slidable relative toeach other between a retracted position and an extended position to thereby adjust the height of the support.

16. The device of claim 15, wherein the support further includes a retaining mechanism for retaining the support portions at a set height.

17. The device of any one of claims 14 to 16, further including a stand extending from an upper end of the support for supporting two or more upper hive boxes when pivoted relative to the lower hive box, when the support is in the operable position.

18. A method of fitting a separating and pivoting device relative to a beehive for separating and pivoting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of the beehive, said method including: mounting a hive end of at least one support frame member to the lower hive box at a first end of the beehive; mounting at least one separating bracket pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member at or near the hive end defining a pivot point to the upper hive box at the first end of the beehive; and pivoting a support pivotally coupled to the at least one support frame member at a support end opposite the hive end from at least a stowage position to an operable position for engagement with support surface for supporting the support frame member relative to the support surface, wherein pivoting of the support to the operable position pivots the at least one support frame upwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and causes the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box to facilitate pivoting of the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point.

19. A method of separating and pivoting an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of a beehive with a fitted separating and pivoting device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, said method including: pivoting the support to the operable position so as to cause the at least one support frame member to pivot upwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and cause the at least one separating bracket to move upwards and at least partially separate the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box; and pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point to a raised position.

20. A method of aligning and lowering an upper hive box relative to a lower hive box of a beehive with a fitted separating and pivoting device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, saidmethod including: pivoting the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box about the pivot point to a lowered position; and pivoting the support to the stowage position so as to cause the at least one support frame to pivot downwards relative to the lower hive box at the first end of the beehive and cause the at least one separating bracket to move downwards and lower the upper hive box relative to the lower hive box.

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