Light generating system for arthropod rearing

Abstract

The invention provides a light generating system (1000) for arthropod rearing, configured to generate system light (1001), wherein in a first operational mode the light generating system (1000) is configured to provide the system light (1001) with a spectral power distribution comprising: a first spectral power E1 in a first wavelength range of 360-780 nm; a second spectral power E2 in a second wavelength range of 360-400 nm; a third spectral power E3 in a third wavelength range of 400-480 nm; a fourth spectral power E4 in a fourth wavelength range of 480-580 nm; a fifth spectral power E5 in a fifth wavelength range of 580-700 nm; a sixth spectral power E6 in a sixth wavelength range of 620-700 nm; a seventh spectral power E7 in a seventh wavelength range of 700-780 nm; and wherein: 1.75 ≤ E4 / E1 ≤ 20; E2 / E1 ≤ 0.005; E7 / E1 ≤ 0.022; and (i) E3 / E1 ≤ 0.3; or (ii) 0.3 < E3 / E1 ≤ 0.8, and 3.4 ≤ E6 / E1 ≤ 14, and wherein the sixth wavelength range comprises a peak between 650-690 nm. S M L M S L L s ​​​​​​​​

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a light generation system for arthropod rearing. It also relates to an arthropod rearing system, a method for arthropod rearing, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] Systems for arthropod rearing are known in the art. For example, WO2014039823A1 describes a system for enhancing the growth of aquatic organisms, comprising first and second ditches, both extending from an inlet to an outlet with a channel between them, and containing water. The ditches are arranged side-by-side and fluidly connected to each other. The first ditches contain a live food source in the water, and the second ditches contain aquatic organisms in the water. Illumination components are arranged in each ditch to enhance both the live food source and the aquatic organisms by using light of a predetermined wavelength.

[0003] WO2016 / 116533A discloses a device for counting sea lice by providing a controlled light environment that ensures sea lice counting is independent of weather conditions and optimized spectral power distribution and light intensity, thereby improving the observation of sea lice relative to fish skin. The device includes at least two LEDs that provide cyan / green light with peak values ​​in the 490-540 nm range and red light with peak values ​​in the 620-660 nm range, respectively.

[0004] US2013 / 152864A discloses a lighting assembly for enhancing the growth of aquatic organisms in an ecosystem. The assembly includes a container immersed in water within the ecosystem. A substrate is disposed within and surrounded by the container, and electronics are provided to supply regulated current to a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) also contained on the substrate. The LEDs emit light within the water of the ecosystem providing the environment for growth, thereby enhancing the growth of aquatic organisms not only within a larger volume of the ecosystem but also.

[0005] WO2019 / 09200A discloses a control system for controlling one or more optical parameters of light supplied to an aqueous liquid in a containment element for containing fish. The control system is configured to control one or more optical parameters of light to apply multiple diurnal cycles to the aqueous liquid, wherein each diurnal cycle has a light cycle and a dark cycle. The control system is at least configured to control the illuminance of the light supplied to the aqueous liquid, wherein during the light cycle, a first illuminance of the light is selected from a range of at least 1000 lux on average at the liquid surface of the aqueous liquid, and during the dark cycle, a second illuminance of the light is selected from a range of at most 400 lux at the liquid surface of the aqueous liquid. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Many arthropod species, such as shrimp and flies, are preserved, especially farmed. In particular, immature arthropods are often farmed. In aquaculture, there is a general trend and need to improve the efficiency and reliability of the growth stages. Efficiency is likely related to the ability and desire to reduce the impact of key cost drivers, feed, growth rate, and mortality. Reliability is linked to the need for predictable harvest times and a smooth supply chain, preferably free from seasonal dependence.

[0007] Arthropods may possess specific photoreceptors that provide non-visual information to the animals, and these photoreceptors can be targeted to increase the health, well-being, and productivity of these arthropods. However, in general, arthropods may be primarily exposed to no light, natural light, or conventional (human-centered) lighting during captivity, which may conversely lead to reduced investment and limit the ability to control their rearing.

[0008] For example, in existing lighting solutions, the radiation levels in the UV-A range (approximately 360-400 nm) and / or the blue light range (approximately 400-480 nm) may be relatively high for arthropod husbandry. In particular, exposure to UV-A or blue light can lead to disease and death.

[0009] Therefore, one aspect of the present invention is to provide an alternative light generation system that preferably further eliminates at least partially one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages. The object of the present invention is to overcome or improve at least one disadvantage of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0010] Therefore, in a first aspect, the present invention can provide a light-generating system, particularly for arthropod rearing. The light-generating system can be configured to generate system light (during system operation), and particularly to provide system light to arthropod hosting spaces. The light-generating system can have a first operating mode, particularly wherein, in the first operating mode, the light-generating system is configured to provide system light having a spectral power distribution. In an embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a first spectral power E1 in a first wavelength range of 360-780 nm (here, the visible wavelength range is defined as 360-780 nm). In another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a second spectral power E2 in a second wavelength range of 360-400 nm. In yet another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a third spectral power E in a third wavelength range of 400-480 nm. S In another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a fourth spectral power E in the fourth wavelength range of 480-580 nm. MIn another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a fifth spectral power E in the fifth wavelength range of 580-700 nm. L In another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a sixth spectral power E6 in the sixth wavelength range of 620-700 nm. In another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a seventh spectral power E7 in the seventh wavelength range of 700-780 nm. In another embodiment, regarding the spectral power distribution, 1.75 ≤ E M / E S ≤20. In another embodiment, with respect to the spectral power distribution, E2 / E1 ≤ 0.005. In another embodiment, with respect to the spectral power distribution, E7 / E1 ≤ 0.025, for example, E7 / E1 ≤ 0.022, especially E7 / E1 ≤ 0.015. In another embodiment, with respect to the spectral power distribution, E L / E1≤0.3; or 0.3 <E L / E1≤0.8, and 3.4≤E6 / E S ≤14, wherein the sixth wavelength range includes peak values ​​between 650-690 nm. Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the present invention can provide a light generation system for arthropod rearing, configured to generate system light, wherein in a first operating mode, the light generation system is configured to provide system light having a spectral power distribution comprising: a first spectral power E1 in a first wavelength range of 360-780 nm; a second spectral power E2 in a second wavelength range of 360-400 nm; and a third spectral power E1 in a third wavelength range of 400-480 nm. S The fourth spectral power E in the fourth wavelength range of 480-580 nm M The fifth spectral power E in the fifth wavelength range of 580-700 nm L The sixth spectral power E6 in the sixth wavelength range of 620-700 nm; the seventh spectral power E7 in the seventh wavelength range of 700-780 nm; and where: 1.75≤E M / E S ≤20; E2 / E1≤0.005; E7 / E1≤0.022; and (i)E L / E1≤0.3; or (ii)0.3 <E L / E1≤0.8, and 3.4≤E6 / E S ≤14, where the sixth wavelength range includes peak values ​​between 650 and 690 nm.

[0011] This invention offers the advantage that the system light is tailored for the efficient feeding of arthropod species. Specifically, animals can use their visual systems (including color vision) to locate and select food. Many types of food are characterized by high reflectivity at higher wavelengths (yellow, red, brown). 5% to 25% of their radiation in the spectrum between approximately 580 nm and 700 nm can provide sufficient color vision. However, the sensitivity of arthropod eyes can drop sharply between 600 and 660 nm, and the sensitivity of larval eyes at higher wavelengths is even more limited. Therefore, emitting large amounts of radiation in this higher wavelength range may be a waste of energy, as it may even distort the animal's color perception and may have been limited to having no non-visual effects, or even undesirable non-visual effects, for the animal.

[0012] The spectral composition of sunlight typically varies throughout the day. Through absorption and reflection, sunlight under the canopy is greener than sunlight under the open sky or in a winter forest where all leaves have fallen. For arthropods living under tree cover, such as many insects living on the forest floor or shrimp larvae living in mangroves, this means that the spectrum they experience can reflect both daily and seasonal variations. In particular, the biological clocks and calendars of many arthropods receive their light input from short- and mid-wavelength-sensitive external retinal opsins (most likely CRY1 and opnG), with maximum sensitivities of approximately 450 nm and 540 nm, respectively, and FWHMs of approximately 80 nm and 40 nm, respectively. Stimulation of both opsins can influence the biological clock, but for some animals, immature individuals are highly sensitive to short-wavelength light. In particular, excessive exposure to blue light (between approximately 400–480 nm) can lead to disease and death. Therefore, radiation levels in this wavelength range should be limited.

[0013] Arthropods can be cultured alongside photosynthetic organisms, such as plants, algae, bacteria, or plant flagellates, which are often used as feed for the arthropods. Examples are grasshoppers and grass, or shrimp and biofilms or phytoplankton. In these cases, radiation with a longer wavelength range may be useful, but it should be concentrated near the long-wavelength absorption band of photosynthetic pigments, which could be, for example, around 660 nm. To effectively stimulate photosynthesis, irradiation in the range of 400 nm to 700 nm (photosynthetically active radiation, PAR) may be required, where, in specific embodiments, the ratio between radiation above 80 nm and radiation below 80 nm should be in the range of 4–10, i.e., 4 ≤ E6 / E S ≤10.

[0014] Therefore, there may be various criteria, including conflicting criteria, for the selection of a suitable spectral power distribution. The spectral power distribution defined above may be particularly useful because it represents the selection of spectral power values ​​that result in good performance given various criteria.

[0015] Therefore, the present invention can provide a light-generating system for arthropod rearing. The term "light-generating system" herein can refer to a system comprising one or more light-generating devices. In embodiments, the light-generating system may be a light-generating device. In other embodiments, the light-generating system may include multiple (different) light-generating devices, and particularly includes a control system configured to (individually) control multiple light-generating devices.

[0016] Therefore, light-generating systems can be configured for raising arthropods. The term "arthropod raising" herein can refer to raising arthropods for any purpose, including arthropod husbandry, but also includes conservation work, zoos, or as pets. In embodiments, the term "arthropod raising" can specifically refer to arthropod breeding. The term "arthropod raising" herein can refer to the commercial breeding and growth of arthropods, for example, for human consumption, animal feed production, or the production of specific substances (e.g., proteins or pharmaceutical compounds). Arthropods can also be kept in captivity for agricultural and industrial uses, and also as laboratory animals (e.g., fruit flies or many pests). The term "arthropod" herein can refer to members of the phylum Arthropoda, especially members of the phylum Euarthropoda. In specific embodiments, arthropods can include species selected from the group comprising crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters, crayfish, or shrimp. In another embodiment, the arthropods may include species selected from the group consisting of hexapods, particularly insects, such as species selected from the group consisting of orthoptera (e.g., grasshoppers), cockroaches (e.g., cockroaches), coleoptera (e.g., mealworms), dipterans (e.g., black soldier flies), and lepidoptera (e.g., silkworms).

[0017] The light generation system can be configured to generate system light, and in particular to provide system light to arthropod containment spaces.

[0018] The term "system light" may, in this document, specifically refer to light emitted from a system. Therefore, in embodiments, a light generation system may include light generating devices configured to provide components of system light. In another embodiment, the light generating device may include a light source providing source light, wherein at least a portion of the source light is a component of the system light. In another embodiment, the light generating device may include a transducer (e.g., a phosphor) configured to convert at least a portion of the source light into components of the system light. In yet another embodiment, the light generation system may include multiple light generating devices configured to provide system light together. The light generating devices (particularly each of the multiple light generating devices) may particularly include solid-state light sources, such as LEDs.

[0019] The light generation system can be specifically configured to provide system light to the arthropod containment space. The arthropod containment space can be specifically configured to contain arthropods, particularly multiple arthropods. In one embodiment, the arthropod containment space can be configured to contain a specific arthropod species. However, in another embodiment, the arthropod containment space can be configured to contain multiple different arthropod species.

[0020] In some embodiments, the arthropod containment space may include a (relatively) enclosed space, such as a pool, cage, crate, or box. In other embodiments, the arthropod containment space may include a (relatively) open space, such as a pond, grassland, or part of a body of water, such as a lake, sea, or ocean. Thus, the arthropod containment space may be an indoor space in some embodiments, but an (open) outdoor space in others. In specific embodiments, the arthropod containment space may include a greenhouse, particularly a tunnel greenhouse.

[0021] In embodiments, the system (especially the control system (see below)) may have a first operating mode. The term "operating mode" may also refer to "control mode". The system or device (see further below) may perform actions in a "mode" or "operating mode" or "mode of operation". Similarly, in a method, actions, stages, or steps may be performed in a "mode" or "operating mode" or "mode of operation". This does not preclude the system or device from being adapted to provide another operating mode, or multiple other operating modes. Likewise, this does not preclude the possibility of performing one or more other modes before and / or after performing the current mode. However, in embodiments, the control system (see further below) may be available and adapted to provide at least an operating mode. If other modes are available, the selection of such modes may be performed, in particular, via a user interface, although other options (such as performing modes based on sensor signals or (time) schemes) may also be possible. In embodiments, an operating mode may also refer to a system or device that can only operate in a single operating mode (i.e., "on", without additional tunability). Therefore, in embodiments, the system may have at least a first operating mode and a second operating mode.

[0022] In the first operating mode, the light generation system can be configured to provide system light with a spectral power distribution.

[0023] Typically, in embodiments, the spectral power distribution may include a first spectral power E1 in a first wavelength range of 360-780 nm.

[0024] In another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a second spectral power E2 in the second wavelength range of 360-400 nm. Light in the second wavelength range may generally be harmful to arthropods. Therefore, in another embodiment, E2 / E1 ≤ 0.01, for example ≤ 0.005, particularly ≤ 0.001, including 0. In another embodiment, E2 / E1 ≥ 0, for example ≥ 0.00001, particularly ≥ 0.0001, for example ≥ 0.001.

[0025] In embodiments, the efficiency of the light generation system with respect to providing system light can be at least 30%, for example at least 40%, especially at least 45%, for example at least 50%, especially at least 55%, for example at least 60%. The phrase "efficiency of the light generation system with respect to providing system light" can refer herein to the power (in W) of irradiance relative to the electrical power (in W) used by the light generation system (especially (a plurality of) light generation devices).

[0026] Under certain circumstances, adding radiation in the second wavelength range may have a positive effect, such as stimulating growth or pigmentation. Thus, in embodiments, 0.004 < E2 / E1 < 4, particularly 0.008 < E2 / E1 < 2. In such embodiments, the second wavelength range may particularly include an emission peak between 370 nm and 395 nm.

[0027] An arthropod can have: a first non-visual / brain / extraretinal photoreceptor (“first photoreceptor”) (e.g., the opsin CRY1), which is configured to sense light having a wavelength between 400 nm and 480 nm (e.g., with a peak at 440 nm and a FWHM of 40 nm); and a second non-visual / brain / extraretinal photoreceptor (“second photoreceptor”) (e.g., the opsin opnG), which is configured to sense light having a wavelength between (480 nm and 580 nm) (e.g., with a peak at 530 nm and a FWHM of 80 nm).

[0028] The term “photoreceptor” can refer herein to a biological structure, particularly an organ, or particularly a cell, which contains a photosensitive protein involved in light perception. Photoreceptors can mediate light responses for vision, phototropism, and phototaxis, as well as responses to light-dark cycles, such as circadian rhythms and other photoperiodic phenomena. In particular, an animal can receive information about its environment via its photoreceptors, which can affect the animal's behavior. Thus, (artificially) stimulating these photoreceptors can lead to beneficial behavior in arthropods, such as an arthropod adopting a beneficial circadian clock, or, for example, an arthropod feeding at a desired time point.

[0029] Thus, in a further embodiment, the spectral power distribution can include a third spectral power E in a third wavelength range of 400 - 480 nm S , which may be particularly suitable for exciting the first photoreceptor. Light in the third wavelength range can promote feeding, which can enhance growth, but may also result in more energy being spent on physical activity, respiration, and metabolism, which in turn may limit growth. Additionally, as mentioned above, arthropods (particularly immature individuals) may be sensitive to short wavelength light, and irradiation with light in the 400 - 480 nm range can lead to disease and death. Thus, there may be a trade-off between stimulating feeding and the above-mentioned harmful effects.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the spectral power distribution can include a fourth spectral power E in a fourth wavelength range of 480 - 580 nm MThis may be particularly well-suited for stimulating second photoreceptors. Light in the fourth wavelength range can especially serve as a second input to the circadian rhythm system. Furthermore, light in the fourth wavelength range can stimulate molting and growth, and can promote maturation and stimulate egg production, which can be particularly beneficial for adult arthropods. However, light in the fourth wavelength range may be less effective in stimulating (feeding) activity.

[0031] Therefore, regarding the third and fourth wavelength ranges, given the different (positive and negative) effects of these two wavelength ranges, it may be necessary to determine a balance that could be crucial in stimulating physical activity and the biological clock (and the physiological / biological processes that depend on it).

[0032] Therefore, in the embodiment, 1.75≤E M / E S ≤30, especially 2≤E M / E S ≤30, or especially 1.75≤E M / E S ≤20. In another embodiment, E M / E S ≥1.5, for example, E M / E S ≥1.75, especially E M / E S ≥2, for example ≥2.4, especially ≥3, for example ≥4. In another embodiment, E M / E S ≤35, for example, E M / E S ≤30, especially E M / E S ≤20, for example, E M / E S ≤15, especially E M / E S ≤12, for example, E M / E S ≤11, especially E M / E S ≤8.

[0033] In another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a fifth spectral power E in the fifth wavelength range of 580-700 nm. L Light in the fifth wavelength range can help arthropods find and select food. However, excessive light in the fifth wavelength range can distort an animal's color vision and may be relatively wasteful, as the fifth wavelength range may have no non-visual effects on the animal.

[0034] Therefore, in the embodiments, E L / E1≤0.4, for example E L / E1≤0.30, especially E L / E1≤0.25, for example E L / E1≤0.15, especially E L / E1≤0.11. In another embodiment, E L / E1≥0.002, for example E L / E1≥0.01, especially E L / E1≥0.05.

[0035] In another embodiment, arthropods can be cultured together with other organisms, such as photosynthetic organisms like plants, algae, bacteria, or plant flagellates. These other organisms can typically be used as food for the arthropods, but they can also live in symbiosis with them, particularly when the other organisms feed on the arthropods' waste (such as excrement), or vice versa. In these cases, stimulating photosynthesis with radiation in the fifth wavelength range may be useful. In such embodiments, light in the fifth wavelength range can be particularly concentrated near the long-wavelength absorption bands of photosynthetic pigments, for example, around 660 nm. Specifically, irradiation in the range between 400 nm and 700 nm (photosynthetically active radiation, PAR) may be beneficial for effectively stimulating photosynthesis, especially at the third spectral power E. S The ratio to the sixth spectral power E6 is selected from the range of 4–14, especially 4–10, or especially 3.4–14, i.e., 3.4 ≤ E6 / E S ≤14, especially 4.75≤E6 / E S ≤12.5, for example, 5≤E6 / E S ≤10. Therefore, in another embodiment, 0.3 <E L / E1≤0.8, and 3.4≤E6 / E S ≤14, and in particular the sixth wavelength range includes a (broad) peak between 650-690 nm.

[0036] Therefore, in another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a sixth spectral power E6 in the sixth wavelength range of 620-700 nm.

[0037] Therefore, when E L When E is not equal to zero L The intensity within the range can be only within E6, only outside E6, or both within and outside E6.

[0038] In another embodiment, the spectral power distribution may include a seventh spectral power E7 in the seventh wavelength range of 700-780 nm. However, light in the seventh wavelength range may be harmful to many arthropod species, especially insect species. Therefore, in embodiments, E7 / E1 ≤ 0.08, for example, E7 / E1 ≤ 0.05, especially E7 / E1 ≤ 0.025, for example, E7 / E1 ≤ 0.022, especially E7 / E1 ≤ 0.02, for example, ≤ 0.015, especially E7 / E1 ≤ 0.01, including E7 / E1 = 0. In another embodiment, E7 / E1 ≥ 0, for example, E7 / E1 ≥ 0.0001, especially E7 / E1 ≥ 0.01.

[0039] As indicated above, the spectral power distribution can be divided into several ranges, among which specific ranges may be of interest: the first spectral power E1 (in the first wavelength range of 360–780 nm); the second spectral power E2 (in the second wavelength range of 360–400 nm); and the third spectral power E... S (In the third wavelength range of 400-480 nm); Fourth spectral power E M (In the fourth wavelength range of 480-580 nm); the fifth spectral power E L (In the fifth wavelength range of 580-700 nm); the sixth spectral power E6 (in the sixth wavelength range of 620-700 nm); and the seventh spectral power E7 (in the seventh wavelength range of 700-780 nm). It is evident that the spectral power of the spectral power distribution within the visible wavelength range (defined here as 360-780 nm) can be the integrated power within that wavelength range. Therefore, in this embodiment, the total power in the spectral power distribution can be defined as E² + E⁻¹. S + E M + E L + E7. As indicated above, E6 is included in E. L In the middle. Here, during the operation of the light generation system, E2, E S E M E L At least one of E and E7 is greater than zero. Specifically, during the operation of the light generation system, E... S and E M At least one of them is greater than zero. In another embodiment, during the operation of the light generation system, E2, E S E M E L At least two (especially at least three, such as at least four, especially all) of E7 can be greater than zero.

[0040] In an embodiment, the first operating mode may include a recurring temporal pattern. The temporal pattern may specifically include a photoperiod and a darkperiod. The photoperiod may specifically represent the diurnal cycle of an arthropod. However, arthropods (especially different arthropod species) may be exposed to very different habitats, such as from shallow estuaries to deep seas, and from sun-drenched grasslands to semi-buried under tree canopies. Therefore, during the photoperiod, the light generating system may be configured to generate system light at an intensity selected from the range of 0.5-2000 lux. In another embodiment, during the photoperiod, the light generating system may be configured to generate system light with an intensity of at least 0.2 lux, especially at least 0.5 lux, such as at least 1 lux, especially at least 2 lux, such as at least 5 lux, especially at least 10 lux, such as at least 30 lux, especially at least 50 lux, such as at least 100 lux. In another embodiment, during the optical cycle, the light generation system can be configured to generate system light with an intensity of up to 2500 lux, such as up to 2000 lux, especially up to 1500 lux, such as up to 1000 lux, especially up to 500 lux, such as up to 200 lux, especially up to 100 lux.

[0041] During the dark period, the light generation system can be configured to generate system light with an intensity selected from the range of 0-0.5 lux. In another embodiment, during the dark period, the light generation system can be configured to generate system light with an intensity of at least 0 lux, such as at least 0.01 lux, particularly at least 0.1 lux, such as at least 0.2 lux. In another embodiment, during the dark period, the light generation system can be configured to generate system light with an intensity of at most 5 lux, such as at most 2 lux, particularly at most 1 lux, such as at most 0.5 lux, particularly at most 0.4 lux, such as at most 0.2 lux.

[0042] In a specific embodiment, during the dark period, the average intensity (time average) is at least 20 times smaller than the average intensity during the light period, for example at least 60 times smaller, especially at least 200 times smaller, for example at least 1000 times smaller.

[0043] When intensity is indicated in lux, it specifically refers to illuminance. Otherwise, intensity can refer to watts, especially in the case of spectral power distribution.

[0044] Artificially extending the photoperiod length relative to the photoperiod naturally exposed in arthropods can lead to higher growth performance. In particular, extending the photoperiod length relative to the dark period can result in higher growth performance. However, diminishing returns may exist, meaning that the relative benefit of a small increase in photoperiod may outweigh the benefit of a large increase, for example, by effectively eliminating the dark period. Furthermore, reducing the photoperiod length can reduce overall lighting requirements, which may be beneficial in terms of cost and environmental footprint. Therefore, the duration of the time pattern and the relative duration of the photoperiod and dark period can be selected based on these (optimization) criteria.

[0045] Therefore, in another embodiment, the time pattern may have a pattern duration T selected from the range of 8-30 hours, particularly from the range of 12-24 hours, for example from the range of 12-16 hours, or for example from the range of 16-24 hours. p .

[0046] In another embodiment, the optical period may have an optical period duration T. d Where 0.35≤T d / T p ≤0.9, for example, 0.40≤T d / T p ≤0.75, especially 0.45≤T d / T p ≤0.75, for example, 0.50≤T d / T p ≤0.75. Therefore, in another embodiment, T d / T p ≥0.3, for example ≥0.35, especially ≥0.4, for example ≥0.45, especially ≥0.5, for example ≥0.55. In another embodiment, T d / T p ≤0.9, especially T d / T p ≤0.8, for example, T d / T p ≤0.75, especially T d / T p ≤0.7, for example, T d / T p ≤0.65, especially T d / T p ≤0.6. Note that the duration of the optical period T d Adding the duration of the dark period gives the mode duration T. p .

[0047] The duration of such photoperiods and darkperiods may be beneficial to the efficiency of arthropod husbandry, for example, given the growth of arthropods.

[0048] The term "repeating time pattern" can specifically refer to multiple consecutively arranged time patterns, each time pattern comprising a pattern duration T selected from the range of 8-30 hours. p And each time pattern has an optical period duration T. d Where 0.35≤T d / T p ≤0.75. The time patterns of multiple consecutive arrangements can be similar, especially (essentially) identical.

[0049] However, in another embodiment, the temporal pattern of the continuous arrangement can be gradually varied, for example, by gradually increasing (or decreasing) the (relative) duration of the photoperiod. The gradual increase or decrease in the photoperiod can signal to the animal that the season is about to change, thereby initiating or inhibiting physiological changes, such as accelerated growth and development, pupation, or maturation.

[0050] In another embodiment, the photocycle may include alternating feeding and non-feeding cycles, wherein the duration of the feeding cycle is selected from the range of 10-60 minutes, and the duration of the non-feeding cycle is selected from the range of 60-300 minutes, particularly wherein the E of the feeding cycle... M / E S Below the non-feeding cycle. As indicated above, light in the third wavelength range can promote feed intake, which may be beneficial for growth, but may further lead to increased activity and associated energy expenditure, especially after the animal has finished feeding, which may be detrimental to growth. Therefore, by alternating feeding and non-feeding cycles, the beneficial growth effects of feeding can be achieved while reducing the harmful effects of increased energy expenditure.

[0051] Therefore, in such an embodiment, the first operating mode may include providing system light with a spectral power distribution during a non-feeding cycle, and the first operating mode may include providing (feeding) system light with a modified (feeding) spectral power distribution during a feeding cycle.

[0052] In another embodiment, during at least a portion of the feeding cycle, 0.001 ≤ E M / E S ≤2, especially 0.001≤E M / E S ≤1.5, for example, 0.001≤E M / E S ≤1. Therefore, except for 0.001≤E M / E S Except for condition 2 ≤ E, the modified (feeding) spectral power distribution can be the same as the spectral power distribution. Therefore, in the embodiments, except for condition 2 ≤ EM / E S ≤30 (which may be applied in the examples) is subject to the condition 0.001≤E M / E S In addition to ≤1 substitution, the modified (feeding) spectral power distribution may be the same as the spectral power distribution. In another embodiment, during at least a portion of the feeding cycle, E M / E S ≥0.01, for example, ≥0.1. In another embodiment, during at least a portion of the feeding cycle, E M / E S ≤0.5, for example ≤0.25. In another embodiment, during at least a portion of the feeding cycle, the first operating mode may include providing a modified (feeding) spectral power distribution. In another embodiment, during at least a portion of the feeding cycle, the first operating mode may include providing a spectral power distribution.

[0053] In another embodiment, during at least a portion of the feeding cycle, the ratio E M / E S The ratio E can be compared to the non-feeding period. M / E S Smaller by at least 2 times, especially smaller by at least 10 times, for example, smaller by at least 100 times.

[0054] In another embodiment, the optical cycle includes one or more first optical cycles and a second optical cycle, particularly wherein the one or more first optical cycles and the second optical cycle are temporally separate, i.e., do not overlap in time. The one or more first optical cycles may be temporally arranged at one or more points at the beginning and end of the optical cycle. The one or more first optical cycles may (each) have a duration selected from the range of 5-120 minutes, for example, from the range of 10-90 minutes, and particularly from the range of 15-60 minutes.

[0055] One or more first optical cycles may be temporally separated by second optical cycles, particularly by one or more second optical cycles. During the second optical cycles, the light generating system may specifically provide the same system light as during the dark cycle, but may also provide different system light. In particular, the light generating system may provide higher lux during one or more first optical cycles than during one or more second optical cycles, and may provide higher lux during one or more second optical cycles than during the dark cycle. The one or more second optical cycles may (each) have a duration selected from the range of 5-1500 minutes, for example from the range of 10-1080 minutes, particularly from the range of 30-600 minutes, for example from the range of 60-120 minutes.

[0056] Therefore, in another embodiment, the optical cycle may include alternating first and second optical cycles, particularly wherein one or more of the first optical cycles are temporally arranged at one or more points at the beginning and end of (at least) the optical cycle.

[0057] In another embodiment, the light-generating system may generate system light at a first intensity I1 during one or more first photocycles, and at a second intensity I2 during a second photocycle, where 1.5 ≤ I1 / I2 ≤ 1000, for example, 2 ≤ I1 / I2 ≤ 500. In particular, to influence the circadian rhythm clock of arthropods, it may not be necessary to provide light throughout the entire photocycle. Instead, providing light for a relatively short first photocycle may be sufficient, which could reduce overall lighting requirements, potentially beneficial in terms of cost and environmental footprint.

[0058] In another embodiment, one or more first optical cycles include at least two first optical cycles, wherein the first of the at least two first optical cycles is arranged in time at the beginning of the optical cycle, and wherein the second of the at least two first optical cycles is arranged in time at the end of the optical cycle.

[0059] In an embodiment, the light generation system may include light generation devices, particularly multiple light generation devices.

[0060] In another embodiment, the plurality of light generating devices may include a first light generating device. The first light generating device may be specifically configured to provide first radiation having a first peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 420-480 nm. The first light generating device may particularly include a solid-state light source (e.g., an LED) whose emission spectrum is selected such that, taking into account any absorption and emission from a phosphor, it provides first radiation having a first peak wavelength between 420 nm and 480 nm, particularly between 440 nm and 460 nm. In another embodiment, the first peak wavelength may be within 30 nm of the peak sensitivity of a first photoreceptor (e.g., opsin CRY1), particularly within 10 nm.

[0061] In another embodiment, the plurality of light generating devices may include a second light generating device. The second light generating device may be particularly configured to provide a second radiation having a second peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 500-560 nm. The second light generating device may particularly include a solid-state light source (e.g., an LED) whose emission spectrum is selected such that, taking into account any absorption and emission from the phosphor, it provides a second radiation having a second peak wavelength between 500 nm and 560 nm, particularly between 520 nm and 550 nm.

[0062] In an embodiment, the second light generating device may include a luminescent material. In a particular embodiment, the luminescent material (of the second light generating device) may be selected from the group consisting of: lutetium-containing A3B5O 12 :Ce 3+ luminescent materials (such as Lu3Al5O 12 :Ce 3 + , LuAG), lutetium-containing (Lu x Y 1-x )3Al5O 12 :Ce luminescent materials (Lime), barium-containing Ba2SiO4:Eu luminescent materials (BOSE), yttrium-containing A3B5O 12 :Ce 3+ (such as Y3Al5O 12 :Ce 3+ , YAG), europium-containing Eu x Si 6−z Al z O y N 8−y (such as y = z - 2x, x = 0.018, z = 0.23, β-SiALON green), and lutetium-containing (Lu 1-a-b-c Y a Tb b A c )3(Al 1-d B d )5(O 1-e C e ) 12 :Ce,Eu (where A is selected from the group consisting of Mg, Sr, Ca, and Ba; B is selected from the group consisting of Ga and In; C is selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, and Br; and 0 ≤ a ≤ 1; 0 ≤ b ≤ 1; 0 ≤ c ≤ 0.5; 0 ≤ d ≤ 1; and 0 < e ≤ 0.2); particularly phosphors selected from the group consisting of BOSE, LuAG, and Lime (and similar phosphors).

[0063] In a further embodiment, the luminescent material may include Si 6-z Al z O z N 8-z (such as 0.1 ≤ z ≤ 2.0, particularly z ≤ 1.0).

[0064] In a particular embodiment, the luminescent material may include A3B5O 12Ce-type luminescent materials, wherein A in embodiments comprises one or more of Y, La, Gd, Tb, and Lu, particularly at least one or more of Y, Gd, Tb, and Lu, and wherein B in embodiments comprises one or more of Al, Ga, In, and Sc. Specifically, A may contain one or more of Y, Gd, and Lu, for example, particularly one or more of Y and Lu. Specifically, B may comprise one or more of Al and Ga, more particularly at least Al, for example, substantially all Al. Therefore, cerium-containing garnet materials are particularly suitable luminescent materials. Examples of garnet specifically include A3B5O. 12 Garnet, wherein A comprises at least yttrium or lutetium and wherein B comprises at least aluminum. This garnet may be doped with cerium (Ce), praseodymium (Pr), or a combination of cerium and praseodymium; however, it is particularly doped with Ce. Specifically, B comprises aluminum (Al), however, B may also partially comprise gallium (Ga) and / or scandium (Sc) and / or indium (In), particularly up to about 20% Al, more particularly up to about 10% Al (i.e., the B ion consists essentially of 90 or more mol% Al and 10 or less mol% of one or more of Ga, Sc, and In); B may particularly comprise up to about 10% gallium. In another variant, B and O may be at least partially substituted with Si and N. Element A may particularly be selected from the group consisting of yttrium (Y), gadolinium (Gd), terbium (Tb), and lutetium (Lu). Furthermore, Gd and / or Tb are particularly present only in an amount of at most about 20% of A. In a specific embodiment, the garnet luminescent material includes (Y 1-x Lu x )3B5O 12 :Ce, where x is equal to or greater than 0 and equal to or less than 1. The term ":Ce" indicates that a portion of the metal ions in the luminescent material (i.e., in garnet: a portion of the "A" ions) are replaced by Ce. For example, in (Y 1-x Lu x )3Al5O 12 In the case of Ce, a portion of Y and / or Lu is substituted by Ce. This is known to those skilled in the art. Ce will generally substitute no more than 10% of A; the Ce concentration will generally be in the range of 0.1% to 4%, especially 0.1%-2% (relative to A). Assuming 1% Ce and 10% Y, the complete and correct molecular formula could be (Y 0.1 Lu 0.89 Ce 0.01 )3Al5O 12 Ce in garnet is essentially or only in a trivalent state, as is known to those skilled in the art.

[0065] In the embodiments, the phosphor may have the molecular formula (Lu 1-a-b-c Y a Tbb A c )3(Al 1-d B d )5(O 1-e C e ) 12 :Ce, Eu, wherein A is selected from the group consisting of Mg, Sr, Ca, and Ba; B is selected from the group consisting of Ga and In; C is selected from the group consisting of F, Cl, and Br; and 0 ≤ a ≤ 1; 0 ≤ b ≤ 1; 0 ≤ c ≤ 0.5; 0 ≤ d ≤ 1; and 0 < e ≤ 0.2.

[0066] In certain embodiments, the luminescent material comprises (Y x1-x2-x3 A’ x2 Ce x3 )3(Al y1-y2 B’ y2 )5O 12 , where x1 + x2 + x3 = 1, where x3 > 0, where 0 < x2 + x3 ≤ 0.2, where y1 + y2 = 1, where 0 ≤ y2 ≤ 0.2, where A’ comprises one or more elements selected from the group consisting of lanthanide elements, and where B’ comprises one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Ga, In, and Sc. In an embodiment, x3 is selected from the range of 0.001 - 0.1.

[0067] The term "phosphor" may also be used instead of the term "luminescent material". These terms are known to those skilled in the art.

[0068] The term "luminescent material" particularly refers to a material that can convert a first radiation (especially one or more of UV radiation and blue radiation) into a second radiation. Generally, the first radiation and the second radiation have different spectral power distributions. Thus, instead of the term "luminescent material", the terms "luminescence converter" or "converter" may also be applied. Generally, the second radiation has a spectral power distribution at a larger wavelength than the first radiation, which is the case of so-called down-conversion. However, in certain embodiments, the second radiation has a spectral power distribution with an intensity at a smaller wavelength than the first radiation, which is the case of so-called up-conversion.

[0069] In an embodiment, the "luminescent material" may particularly refer to a material that can convert radiation into, for example, visible light and / or infrared light. For example, in an embodiment, the luminescent material may be capable of converting one or more of UV radiation and blue radiation into visible light. In certain embodiments, the luminescent material may also convert radiation into infrared radiation (IR). Thus, when excited by radiation, the luminescent material emits radiation. Generally, the luminescent material will be a down-converter, i.e., radiation of a smaller wavelength is converted into radiation of a larger wavelength (λ ex < λ emAlthough in certain embodiments, the luminescent material may include an up-converter luminescent material, i.e., radiation of a larger wavelength is converted into radiation of a smaller wavelength (λ). ex >λ em ).

[0070] In embodiments, the term "luminescence" may refer to phosphorescence. In embodiments, the term "luminescence" may also refer to fluorescence. The term "emission" may also be used instead of "luminescence." Therefore, the terms "first radiation" and "second radiation" may refer to excitation radiation and emission (radiation), respectively. Similarly, the term "luminescent material" in embodiments may refer to phosphorescence and / or fluorescence. The term "luminescent material" may also refer to a variety of different luminescent materials. Examples of possible luminescent materials are indicated below.

[0071] In embodiments, not only the second light-generating device may include a luminescent material. Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments, one or more of the first, third, and fourth light-generating devices may include luminescent materials. It will be understood that these phosphors may be different because the spectral power distribution of the device light from the first, second, third, and fourth light-generating devices may be different.

[0072] In another embodiment, the plurality of light generating devices may include a third light generating device. The third light generating device may be configured to provide a third radiation having a third peak wavelength in the 570-630 nm wavelength range (particularly in the 570-600 nm wavelength range, or particularly in the 600-630 nm wavelength range). In another embodiment, the third light generating device may include amber LEDs of direct or phosphor-converted type, particularly wherein the third light generating device is configured to provide third radiation having a third peak wavelength in the 570-600 nm wavelength range. In another embodiment, the third light generating device may include red-orange LEDs of direct or phosphor-converted type, particularly wherein the third light generating device is configured to provide third radiation having a third peak wavelength in the 600-630 nm wavelength range.

[0073] In another embodiment, the plurality of light generating devices may include a fourth light generating device. The fourth light generating device may be configured to provide a fourth radiation having a fourth peak wavelength in the 200-400 nm wavelength range, particularly having a peak in one or more of the 370-395 nm range, the 280-320 nm range, and the 200-240 nm range, particularly a peak in the 370-395 nm range, or particularly a peak in the 280-320 nm range, or particularly a peak in the 200-240 nm range.

[0074] In a particular embodiment, E2 / E1 > 0.005, and the fourth peak wavelength has a peak value in the range of 370-395 nm.

[0075] In another embodiment, the fourth light-generating device can be configured to provide a fourth radiation with a fourth peak wavelength in the 200-400 nm wavelength range, the peak of which is in the 280-320 nm range. In such an embodiment, the total spectral power in the 280-320 nm range can be between 0.4% and 400% (preferably between 4% and 400%, even more preferably between 40% and 400%) of the spectral power emitted between 400 nm and 700 nm. In particular, some arthropods (crickets, mealworms) have been shown to produce vitamins D2 and D3 upon exposure to radiation in the 280-320 nm range.

[0076] In embodiments, two or more of the first light generating device, the second light generating device, the third light generating device, and the fourth light generating device may be the same device. For example, a device may be configured to provide both a first radiation and a second radiation. For example, the device may include a light source and one or more phosphors, wherein the light source generates light from the light source, and wherein one or more phosphors convert the light from the light source into one or more of the first radiation and the second radiation.

[0077] In another embodiment, the plurality of light generating devices may include a fifth light generating device configured to provide deep red light. The fifth light generating device may specifically include a direct solid-state light source (e.g., an LED with a peak wavelength of 660 nm) or a blue-pumped phosphor (e.g., an MGF). In another embodiment, the fifth light generating device may provide a fifth radiation having a fifth peak wavelength in the 780-1000 nm range.

[0078] In a particular embodiment, the light generation system may include at least five different types of light generation devices, each configured to individually and primarily address E2, E... S E M E L One of the E7s.

[0079] In an embodiment, the plurality of light generating devices may each have an ingress protection (IP) rating of at least IP 65 (e.g., at least IP 68).

[0080] In an embodiment, the light generation system may further include a control system. The control system may be configured to control the light generation system, and more particularly to control each of a plurality of light generation devices.

[0081] In this document, the term "control" and similar terms may specifically refer at least to determining the behavior of an element or supervising the operation of an element. Therefore, "control" and similar terms as used herein may refer, for example, to applying actions to an element (determining the behavior of the element or supervising the operation of the element), such as, for example, measuring, displaying, actuating, turning on, moving, changing temperature, etc. In addition, the term "control" and similar terms may additionally include monitoring. Therefore, the term "control" and similar terms may include applying actions to an element, as well as applying actions to and monitoring the element. The control of the element can be accomplished using a control system. Therefore, the control system and the element may be functionally coupled, at least temporarily or permanently. The element may include a control system. In embodiments, the control system and the element may not be physically coupled. Control may be accomplished via wired and / or wireless control. The term "control system" may also refer to multiple different control systems, particularly those functionally coupled, and one of these control systems may be a master control system, and one or more other control systems may be subordinate control systems.

[0082] In an embodiment, the light generation system may have an electrical design that allows multiple light sources to be powered individually, but by utilizing this combination of light generation devices in multiple channels, all channels are fully powered, and the light generation system provides system light with a spectral power distribution.

[0083] In another embodiment, the light generation system may include a driver functionally coupled to one or more of a plurality of light generation devices, wherein the driver is configured to facilitate dimming of one or more of the plurality of light generation devices, preferably dimming to about 1% of the full output power. In another embodiment, the dimmer may be functionally coupled to a control system, and more particularly, wherein the control system may dim different light generation devices individually.

[0084] In embodiments, the light generation system may further include a sensor. The sensor may be configured to detect ambient light, and in particular to provide a relevant light signal to the control system. The term "...relevant signal" herein may refer to a signal associated with a detected parameter, such as a signal associated with detected ambient light. Specifically, the relevant signal may include raw and / or processed data associated with the detected parameter.

[0085] In the second operating mode, the control system can be configured to control the system light depending on ambient light, and in particular, depending on the relevant light signal. Specifically, during the second operating mode, the control system can control the system light such that the system light and ambient light together provide a spectral power distribution, particularly at a preset light level selected from the range of 0.5-5000 lux, and especially from the range of 0.5-2000 lux, and particularly for arthropod containment space.

[0086] Note that for arthropod enclosures that receive sunlight, additional lighting may not be necessary for at least a portion of the day on sunny days. However, additional lighting may be provided at the beginning or end of the day, and / or when it is desirable to extend the “daytime period” to achieve a preset light level, such as at least approximately 500 lux.

[0087] In an embodiment, the light generation system may further include a behavior sensor. The behavior sensor may be configured to detect arthropod activity and provide relevant behavioral signals to the control system. The control system may be configured to control the system light based on the behavioral signals, particularly wherein the control system is configured to control E depending on the behavioral signals. M and E S (The ratio). Specifically, behavioral sensors can detect feeding or movement activities in arthropods, and the control system can control the system light based on this information. An example of controlling the action could be changing the spectrum to promote feeding (increasing E) when no feeding activity is sensed or too low a level of feeding activity is sensed. S ), or change the lighting (from high E) when all the feed provided has been consumed and should no longer promote (feeding) activity. S Change to (relatively) high E M Furthermore, motion can be measured, and light levels or spectra can be modified to introduce dynamic effects to induce or reduce motion. Additionally, by increasing or decreasing light levels, or by appropriately altering the spectrum, areas of (too) high or (too) low animal density can be made lower or higher by locally applying negative or positive phototaxis.

[0088] In one embodiment, the light-generating system may include a biosensor. The biosensor may be configured to determine one or more biological parameters, particularly one or more of the arthropod's body size (distribution), weight (distribution), and developmental stage, and may provide biological signals to the control system. The control system may be configured to control the system light based on these biological signals.

[0089] In one embodiment, the system may include an environmental sensor. The environmental sensor may be configured to detect environmental parameters and provide relevant environmental signals to the control system, particularly wherein the environmental parameters are selected from the group consisting of temperature, salinity, and (relative) humidity. Specifically, the environmental parameters may relate to the environment in which the arthropod is exposed, such as the temperature and / or salinity of water in a shrimp farming pond, or the temperature and (relative) humidity of air in a grasshopper farming cage, for example. The control system may be configured to control the system light based on the environmental signals, particularly wherein the control system is configured to control E depending on the environmental signals. M and E S (The ratio), or in particular, in which the control system is configured to control E6 and E based on environmental signals.S (The ratio). In particular, environmental sensors can sense abiotic parameters in the arthropod enclosure, such as temperature, salinity, and (relative) humidity, and the control system can be adapted to settings of one or more of photoperiod, light level, or spectral composition to achieve a desired effect in the animal. For example, the desired effect could be accelerated growth or maintained constant growth.

[0090] In another embodiment, the light generation system may include a presence sensor configured to detect the presence of an object (particularly an animal, such as a human) and, in particular, to provide a relevant object signal to the control system. In such an embodiment, the control system may be configured to control the system light based on the object signal. For example, the system light may include a relatively large amount of UV light, which may be harmful to humans, and the system may be configured to (automatically) reduce radiation in the UV range if a human approaches the arthropod containment area.

[0091] In a particular embodiment, the light generation system may have the following characteristics: it may include one or a combination of solid-state light sources emitting in a range between 400 and 700 nm, comprising: a wavelength range S corresponding to the peak wavelength of a first non-visual / brain / retinal photoreceptor (with opsin CRY1) plus or minus half of its FWHM, which is between 400 nm and 480 nm (440 nm + / - 40 nm); and a wavelength range M corresponding to the peak wavelength of a second non-visual / brain / retinal photoreceptor (with opsin opnG) plus or minus half of its FWHM, which is between 480 nm and 580 nm (530 nm + / - 50 nm). The ratio R of radiation emitted in range M to radiation emitted in range S. MS It can be at least 2, preferably at least 2.4, and can be less than 30, preferably less than 20, and even more preferably less than 10. The radiation P emitted between 580 nm and 700 nm (range L) is relative to the radiation emitted between 360 nm and 780 nm. L It can be less than 40%, preferably less than 25%, even more preferably less than 11%, and can be greater than 0.2%, preferably greater than 5%. If the fraction in range L is greater than 40%, then the radiation emitted between 620 nm and 700 nm (range deep red, DR) is relative to the radiation emitted in range S (R). LSThe ratio between 4 and 10, and even more preferably between 6 and 8, is preferably between 4 and 10, with a radiation peak in the longer wavelengths between 650 nm and 690 nm (to satisfy the photosynthesis of "co-situ" organisms). The radiation emitted between 360 nm and 400 nm can be less than 0.5% relative to the radiation emitted between 360 nm and 780 nm. The radiation emitted between 700 nm and 780 nm can be equal to or less than 2.2% relative to the radiation emitted between 360 nm and 780 nm. Unless otherwise stated, all radiation levels and ratios mentioned herein refer to energy in W.

[0092] In a second aspect, the present invention can provide an arthropod rearing system. The arthropod rearing system may include an arthropod housing space and the light generating system of the present invention. The arthropod housing space may be configured to house arthropods. The light generating system may be specifically configured to provide system light to the arthropod housing space.

[0093] In embodiments, arthropod containment spaces may specifically include one or more of the following: pools, tanks, cages, crates, boxes, pipes or hoses, (grass) ground, vegetation, and (part of) a body of water. It will be clear to those skilled in the arthropod arthropod arthropods what kind of containment space would be suitable for raising them.

[0094] In another aspect, the present invention can provide a method for raising arthropods. This method may include providing the arthropods with systematic light, wherein the systematic light has a spectral power distribution. In embodiments, the systematic light may be provided by a light generation system of the present invention. However, the method is not limited to such embodiments.

[0095] In the embodiments, the arthropods can be juvenile or adult arthropods, especially juveniles, or especially adult arthropods. Generally, juvenile arthropods may be of primary interest in rearing, while adult arthropods are mainly used for reproduction. However, adult arthropods may (epigenetically) pass on their biological clocks to their offspring. Therefore, it may be beneficial to expose adult arthropods to similar lighting as juvenile arthropods, especially to the same systemic light as juveniles, or especially to the same temporal patterns as juveniles.

[0096] In another embodiment, the method may include providing system light according to a recurring time pattern (see also above). The time pattern may have a pattern duration T selected from the range of 12-24 hours. p Furthermore, the time pattern can include a light period and a dark period. The light period can have a duration T. dEspecially among them, 0.45≤T d / T p ≤0.65. The method may further include: providing system light at an intensity selected from the range of 0.5-2000 lux during the optical period; and providing system light at an intensity selected from the range of 0-0.5 lux during the dark period.

[0097] In an embodiment, the method may include one or more of the following: (i) detecting arthropod activity, providing relevant behavioral signals, and controlling system light based on the behavioral signals; and determining environmental parameters, providing relevant environmental signals, and controlling system light based on the environmental signals, wherein the environmental parameters are selected from the group consisting of temperature, salinity, and humidity.

[0098] In another aspect, the present invention may provide a computer program product comprising instructions for execution on a computer functionally coupled to a light generation system, wherein the instructions, when executed by the computer, cause the light generation system to perform the method according to the invention.

[0099] In another aspect, the present invention may provide a data carrier on which program instructions are carried, which, when executed by a computer functionally coupled to the light generation system, cause the light generation system to perform the method of the present invention.

[0100] The term "light source" can also refer to multiple light sources, such as 2-20 (solid-state) LED light sources. Therefore, the term LED can also refer to multiple LEDs. Attached Figure Description

[0101] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts, and in the drawings:

[0102] Figure 1 Embodiments of the light generation system, arthropod feeding system, and method of the present invention are illustrated schematically.

[0103] Figure 2 An embodiment of an arthropod feeding system is schematically depicted.

[0104] Figure 3 An example spectral power distribution is schematically depicted.

[0105] Figure 4 An example of a time pattern is illustrated schematically.

[0106] The schematic diagrams are not necessarily to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0107] Figure 1A light generation system 1000 for arthropod rearing is schematically depicted. In the depicted embodiment, the light generation system is configured to generate system light 1001, and in particular to provide system light 1001 to an arthropod housing space 1200. In a first operating mode, the light generation system 1000 is configured to provide system light 1001 having a spectral power distribution, wherein the spectral power distribution includes: a first spectral power E1 in a first wavelength range of 360-780 nm; a second spectral power E2 in a second wavelength range of 360-400 nm; and a third spectral power E3 in a third wavelength range of 400-480 nm. S The fourth spectral power E in the fourth wavelength range of 480-580 nm M The fifth spectral power E in the fifth wavelength range of 580-700 nm L The sixth spectral power E6 in the sixth wavelength range of 620-700 nm; and the seventh spectral power E7 in the seventh wavelength range of 700-780 nm; where 1.75 ≤ E M / E S ≤20; E2 / E1≤0.005; E7 / E1≤0.022; and (i)E L / E1≤0.3; or (ii)0.3 <E L / E1≤0.8, and 3.4≤E6 / E S ≤14, and the sixth wavelength range includes peaks between 650-690 nm.

[0108] In one embodiment, the light generation system 1000 may include light generation devices 100, particularly multiple light generation devices 100. In another embodiment, a first light generation device 110 may be configured to provide first radiation 111 having a first peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 420-480 nm. In another embodiment, a second light generation device 120 may be configured to provide second radiation 121 having a second peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 500-560 nm. In another embodiment, a third light generation device 130 may be configured to provide third radiation 131 having a third peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 570-600 nm. In another embodiment, a fourth light generation device 140 may be configured to provide fourth radiation 141 having a fourth peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 200-400 nm.

[0109] In another embodiment, the plurality of light generating devices 100 may include one or more of a first light generating device 110, a second light generating device 120, a third light generating device 130, and a fourth light generating device 140. For example, the plurality of light generating devices may include one or more of a first light generating device, a second light generating device, and a third and a fourth light generating device.

[0110] In the depicted embodiment, the light generation system 1000 includes a plurality of light generation devices 100, wherein the plurality of light generation devices 100 includes a first light generation device 110, a second light generation device 120, a third light generation device 130, and a fourth light generation device 140. The plurality of light generation devices 100 can together provide system light 1000. In particular, reference numeral 200 can indicate an optical element 200 arranged to combine the radiation from the different light generation devices 100 to provide system light 1001.

[0111] In the depicted embodiment, the light generation system 1000 also includes a control system 300. The control system 300 may be specifically configured to control each of the plurality of light generation devices 100.

[0112] The light generation system also includes an ambient light sensor 1100, configured to detect ambient light 1101 and, in particular, provide a relevant light signal to the control system 300. In a second operating mode, the control system 300 can be configured to control the system light 1001 in relation to the ambient light 1101, wherein the system light 1001 and the ambient light 1101 together provide a spectral power distribution (towards the arthropod containment space 1200). Therefore, the sensor 1100 can detect the ambient light 1101 (e.g., sunlight) and can report data to the control system 300 related to one or more of the spectral composition and / or intensity of the ambient light 1101. The control system 300 can then be configured to determine a suitable spectral composition of the system light 1001 such that the system light 1001 and the ambient light 1101 together provide a spectral power distribution. In particular, the control system 300 can further control the light generation device 100 to provide system light with a suitable spectral composition.

[0113] In another embodiment, the control system may control the system light 1001 based on the ambient light 1101, such that the system light 1001 and the ambient light 1101 can together provide a spectral power distribution of a predefined light level selected from the range of 0.5-2000 lux.

[0114] In the depicted embodiment, system 1000 also includes a behavior sensor 1300, which is configured to detect arthropod activity and provide relevant behavioral signals to control system 300. Control system 300 may be specifically configured to control system light 1001 based on behavioral signals.

[0115] Figure 1 An embodiment of the arthropod rearing system 2000 is further illustrated schematically. The arthropod rearing system includes an arthropod housing space 1200 and a light generating system 1000. The arthropod housing space 1200 can be configured to house arthropods. The light generating system 1000 can be configured to provide system light 1001 to the arthropod housing space 1200. In the illustrated embodiment, the arthropod housing space 1200 may specifically include a water tank 2100.

[0116] Figure 1 A method for arthropod rearing is also schematically depicted, wherein the method includes providing system light 1001 to arthropods (particularly arthropods in arthropod housing space 1200), wherein system light 1001 has a spectral power distribution. In particular, in the depicted embodiment, the method may include providing system light 1001 using a light generation system 1000.

[0117] Figure 2 An embodiment of an arthropod rearing system 2000 is schematically depicted. In the depicted embodiment, the arthropod rearing system 2000 includes two arthropod housing spaces 1200. Specifically, the first arthropod housing space 1200a can be arranged inside a building and may include cages 2200, while the second arthropod housing space 1200b can be arranged outside and may include a pool 2100. Thus, the arthropod rearing system 2000 can be configured to house multiple arthropod species.

[0118] In the depicted embodiment, the light generation system 1000 includes an environmental sensor 1400, which is configured to detect environmental parameters and provide relevant environmental signals to the control system 300. The environmental parameters can be selected, in particular, from the group consisting of temperature, salinity, and humidity. The control system 300 can be configured to control the system light 1001 based on the environmental signals.

[0119] Specifically, the light generation system 1000 includes a first environmental sensor 1400a configured to detect environmental parameters of the environment in which the arthropods in the first arthropod containment space 1200a are exposed, such as one or more of the temperature and relative humidity of the air in the building. Furthermore, the light generation system 1000 may include a second environmental sensor 1400b configured to detect environmental parameters of the environment in which the arthropods in the second arthropod containment space 1200b are exposed, such as one or more of the temperature and salinity of the water in the pool 2100.

[0120] Furthermore, in the depicted embodiment, the first arthropod containment space 1200a may be relatively shielded from ambient light 1101 and may receive essentially only the first system light 1001a, particularly wherein the first plurality of light generating devices 100a provide the first system light 1001a having a spectral power distribution. However, the second arthropod containment space 1200b may receive both ambient light 1101 and the second system light 1001b. Therefore, the light generating system 1000 may include a (light) sensor 1100 configured to detect ambient light 1101, wherein the control system 300 is configured to control the second plurality of light sources 100b to provide the second system light 1001b based on ambient light 1101, such that the second system light 1001b and the ambient light 1101 together provide a spectral power distribution to the second arthropod containment space 1200.

[0121] Figure 3 Example spectral power distributions are schematically depicted, where each of the lines L1-L7 depicts the spectral power E (in au, although on an energy scale, such as, for example, watts) versus wavelength λ for a different example spectral power distribution. The depicted spectral power distributions and the characteristics of the light sources that can provide them, as well as the characteristics of several other spectral power distributions, are summarized in the following tables, where the first table indicates the light source and spectral power distribution, and the second table indicates the associated spectral properties:

[0122] Nr light source <![CDATA[E M / AND S ]]> <![CDATA[E L / E1]]> <![CDATA[E7 / E1]]> <![CDATA[E6 / E S ]]> L1 Blue LED, 450 nm, YAG phosphor 1.92 0.20 0.0042 L2 Blue LED, 450 nm, BOSE phosphor 2.00 0.079 0.0 L3 Blue LED, 450 nm, BOSE phosphor 2.45 0.084 0 L4 Blue LED, 450 nm, BOSE phosphor, LED 680 nm 2.45 0.53 0.008 3.80 L5 Blue LED 450 nm, green phosphor Bose, red LED 680 nm 2.50 0.56 0.01 4.37 L6 Cool white LED, green phosphor Bose, red LED 680 nm 3.50 0.72 0.0005 11.4 L7 Cool white LED, green phosphor Bose, red LED, 680 nm 9.63 0.33 0.0005 3.91 L8 Blue LED, 450 nm; Green LED, 540 nm; Amber LED, 590 nm. 2.32 0.064 <![CDATA[7 10 -5 ]]> L9 Blue LED, 450 nm; Green LED, 540 nm; LED, 680 nm 3.14 0.49 0.0082 6.00 L10 Cool white LED, 5000 K, BOSE phosphor 3.00 0.27 0.0015 L11 Cool white, BOSE phosphor, red LED 680 nm 3.00 0.63 0.00075 6.06 L12 Blue LED 450 nm, Lime phosphor; Red LED 660 nm 3.00 0.63 0.0010 5.79 L13 Blue LED 450 nm, LuAG phosphor; Red LED 660 nm 5.00 0.40 0.00054 11.66 L14 Blue LED 450 nm, GAL phosphor; Red LED 660 nm 6.50 0.39 0.00072 3.56

[0123] Nr x y CCT [K] Duv Ra R9 L1 0.2852 0.3596 7750 0.0314 66 -99 L2 0.2284 0.3691 11000 0.0648 44 -228 L3 0.2355 0.4033 9500 0.0716 43 -237 L4 0.2829 0.3905 7500 0.0449 69 51 L5 0.2893 0.3916 7000 0.0424 69 25 L6 0.39152 0.41118 4000 0.0122 71 -60 L7 0.3134 0.5360 5800 0.0795 51 -114 L8 0.2309 0.4362 9000 0.0835 22 -316 L9 0.2486 0.4724 8000 0.0860 36 18 L10 0.3289 0.4203 5700 0.0368 66 -83 L11 0.3680 0.4063 4600 0.0171 80 40 L12 0.4186 0.4008 3300 0.0016 77 4.6 L13 0.4193 0.4167 3400 0.0080 58 -136 L14 0.3376 0.4765 5500 0.0538 71 32

[0124] Figure 4 An embodiment of a time pattern 400 in which intensity I (in au) repeats over time T (in hours) is schematically depicted. Specifically, Figure 4 A single repetition or sub-unit of the repeating time pattern 400 can be schematically depicted.

[0125] The time pattern 400 includes a light period 600 and a dark period 500. Specifically, during the light period 600, the light generation system 1000 is configured to generate system light 1001 with an intensity selected from the range of 0.5-2000 lux, and during the dark period 500, the light generation system 1000 is configured to generate system light 1001 with an intensity selected from the range of 0-0.5 lux. The time pattern 400 may have a pattern duration T selected from the range of 12-24 hours. p In the depicted embodiments, this is particularly true for 24 hours. Furthermore, the optical period 600 can be the optical period duration T. d , where 0.40≤T d / T p ≤0.75.

[0126] In the depicted embodiment, the optical period 600 includes one or more first optical periods 610 and one or more second optical periods 620, wherein the one or more first optical periods 610 and one or more second optical periods 620 alternate. The one or more first optical periods 610 are temporally arranged at one or more points at the beginning and end of the optical period 600, particularly at the beginning and end of the optical period 600, wherein a single second optical period 620 separates two first optical periods 610. The one or more first optical periods 610 may have a duration selected from the range of 10-90 minutes, wherein the one or more second optical periods 620 may have a duration selected from the range of 10-1080 minutes. During the one or more first optical periods 610, the light generation system 1000 may generate system light 1001 with a first intensity I1, and during the second optical period 620, the light generation system 1000 may generate system light 1001 with a second intensity I2, wherein 1.5 ≤ I1 / I2 ≤ 1000.

[0127] In the depicted embodiment, photocycle 600 (especially the second photocycle 620) further includes alternating feeding cycles 630 and non-feeding cycles 640. The feeding cycle 630 can have a duration selected from the range of 10-60 minutes. The non-feeding cycle 640 can have a duration selected from the range of 60-300 minutes. Specifically, during the feeding cycle 630, E... M / E S The intensity can be lower during feeding cycle 630 than during non-feeding cycle 640. In embodiments, such as those depicted, the intensity of the system light (1001) can also be higher during feeding cycle 630 than during non-feeding cycle 640.

[0128] In this article, x and y are color coordinates based on the CIE 1931 color space, CCT indicates correlated color temperature, Duv indicates the distance from the blackbody line in the UV color space, Ra or CRI is the color rendering index, and R9 indicates the color rendering index of the reference color 9 (red).

[0129] The term "multiple" refers to two or more. Furthermore, the terms "multiple" and "several" are used interchangeably.

[0130] Those skilled in the art will understand the terms “substantially” or “basically” and similar terms used herein. The term “substantially” or “basically” may also include embodiments with terms such as “completely,” “entirely,” “all,” etc. Therefore, in embodiments, the adjectives “substantially” or “basically” may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” or “basically” may also refer to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, particularly 99% or higher, even more particularly 99.5% or higher, including 100%. Furthermore, the terms “approximately” and “about” may also refer to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, particularly 99% or higher, even more particularly 99.5% or higher, including 100%. For numerical values, it should be understood that the terms “substantially,” “basically,” “approximately,” and “about” may also refer to a range of 90%-110%, such as 95%-105%, particularly 99%-101% of the numerical values ​​they refer to.

[0131] The term "comprising" also includes embodiments that mean "consisting of".

[0132] The term “and / or” specifically refers to one or more items mentioned before and after “and / or”. For example, the phrase “item 1 and / or item 2” and similar phrases can refer to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term “comprising” in one embodiment can mean “consisting of”, but in another embodiment it can also mean “containing at least the defined kinds and optional one or more other kinds”.

[0133] Furthermore, the terms first, second, third, etc., used in the specification and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe a sequential or chronological order. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of the invention described herein can operate in orders other than those described or shown herein.

[0134] During operation, the equipment, apparatus, or system may be described herein (among others). As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to the method of operation, or the equipment, apparatus, or system in operation.

[0135] The term "another embodiment" and similar terms may refer to an embodiment that includes features of the previously discussed embodiments, but may also refer to alternative embodiments.

[0136] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative and not limiting of the invention, and those skilled in the art will be able to devise many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0137] In the claims, any reference numerals placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims.

[0138] The use of the verb "comprise" and its variations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in the claims. Unless the context explicitly requires it, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," "include," "containing," etc., should be interpreted as encompassing, not exclusive or exhaustive; that is, in the sense of "including but not limited to."

[0139] The article "one" or "a" preceding an element does not preclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0140] This invention can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In an apparatus claim, device claim, or system claim listing several components, several of these components may be embodied by the same hardware item. The mere fact that certain measures are referenced in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used advantageously.

[0141] The present invention also provides a control system that can control a device, apparatus, or system, or perform the methods or processes described herein. Furthermore, the present invention provides a computer program product that, when functionally coupled to or executed on a computer included in a device, apparatus, or system, controls one or more controllable elements of such device, apparatus, or system.

[0142] The present invention is also applicable to devices, apparatuses, or systems that include one or more characteristic features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings. The invention also relates to methods or processes that include one or more characteristic features described in the specification and / or shown in the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, if a method or an embodiment of the method is described as being performed in a device, apparatus, or system, it will be understood that the device, apparatus, or system is suited to or configured to (perform) the method or an embodiment of the method.

[0143] The various aspects discussed in this patent can be combined to provide additional advantages. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments can be combined, and more than two embodiments can be combined. Additionally, some features can form the basis of one or more divisional applications.

Claims

1. A light-generating system (1000) for arthropod rearing, configured to generate system light (1001), wherein in a first operating mode, the light-generating system (1000) is configured to provide the system light (1001) having a spectral power distribution, wherein the spectral power distribution comprises: -The first spectral power E1 in the first wavelength range of 360-780 nm; -Second spectral power E2 in the second wavelength range of 360-400 nm; - The third spectral power E in the third wavelength range of 400-480 nm S ; - Fourth spectral power E in the fourth wavelength range of 480-580 nm M ; - The fifth spectral power E in the fifth wavelength range of 580-700 nm L ; - The sixth spectral power E6 in the sixth wavelength range of 620-700 nm; - The seventh spectral power E7 in the seventh wavelength range of 700-780 nm; And among them: - 1.75≤E M / E S ≤20; E2 / E1≤0.005; E7 / E1≤0.022; and -(i)E L / E1≤0.3; or (ii)0.3 < E L / E1≤0.8, and 3.4≤E6 / E S ≤14, and wherein the sixth wavelength range includes a peak between 650 and 690 nm.

2. The light generation system (1000) according to claim 1, wherein the first operating mode comprises a repetitive time mode (400), wherein the time mode (400) comprises a light period (600) and a dark period (500), wherein during the light period (600), the light generation system (1000) is configured to generate the system light (1001) at an intensity selected from the range of 0.5-2000 lux, and wherein during the dark period (500), the light generation system (1000) is configured to generate the system light (1001) at an intensity selected from the range of 0-0.5 lux, wherein the time mode (400) has a mode duration T selected from the range of 12-24 hours. p And wherein the optical period (600) has an optical period duration T d , where 0.40≤T d / T p ≤0.

75.

3. The light generation system (1000) according to claim 2, wherein the light cycle (600) comprises alternating feeding cycles (630) and non-feeding cycles (640), wherein the feeding cycle (630) has a duration selected from the range of 10-60 minutes, and wherein the non-feeding cycle (640) has a duration selected from the range of 60-300 minutes, wherein E M / E S The lower temperature during the feeding cycle (630) is compared to the non-feeding cycle (640).

4. The light generation system (1000) according to any one of claims 2-3, wherein the light cycle (600) comprises one or more first light cycles (610) and one or more second light cycles (620), wherein the one or more first light cycles (610) and the one or more second light cycles (620) alternate, and wherein the one or more first light cycles (610) are temporally arranged at one or more of the beginning and end of the light cycle (600), wherein the one or more first light cycles (610) have a duration selected from the range of 10-90 minutes, wherein the one or more second light cycles (620) have a duration selected from the range of 10-1080 minutes, and wherein during the one or more first light cycles (610), the light generation system (1000) can generate system light (1001) with a first intensity I1, and during the second light cycle (620), the light generation system (1000) can generate system light (1001) with a second intensity I2, wherein 1.5 ≤ I1 / I2 ≤ 1000.

5. A light generation system (1000) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the light generation system (1000) comprises a plurality of light generation devices (100), wherein the plurality of light generation devices (100) comprises one or more of (i) a first light generation device (110), (ii) a second light generation device (120), and (iii) a third light generation device (130) and a fourth light generation device (140); wherein the first light generation device (110) is configured to provide a first radiation (111) having a first peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 420-480 nm, wherein the second light generation device (120) is configured to provide a second radiation (121) having a second peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 500-560 nm, wherein the third light generation device (130) is configured to provide a third radiation (131) having a third peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 570-600 nm, and wherein the fourth light generation device (140) is configured to provide a third radiation (131) having a third peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 200-400 nm. The fourth radiation (141) has a fourth peak wavelength in the nm wavelength range, and where 2≤E M / E S ≤10.

6. The light generation system (1000) of claim 5, wherein the light generation system (1000) further comprises a sensor (1100) and a control system (300), wherein the sensor (1100) is configured to detect ambient light (1101), and wherein in a second operating mode, the control system (300) is configured to control the system light (1001) depending on the ambient light (1101), wherein the system light (1001) and the ambient light (1101) together provide the spectral power distribution defined in claim 1 at a preset light level selected from the range of 0.5-2000 lux.

7. The light generation system (1000) according to claim 6, wherein the control system (300) is configured to individually control each of the plurality of light generation devices (100).

8. The light generation system (1000) according to any one of claims 6-7, wherein one or more are applicable: The light generation system (1000) further includes a behavior sensor (1300) configured to detect arthropod activity and provide relevant behavioral signals to the control system (300), wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the system light (1001) based on the behavioral signals; and The light generation system (1000) further includes an environmental sensor (1400), wherein the environmental sensor (1400) is configured to detect environmental parameters and provide relevant environmental signals to the control system (300), wherein the environmental parameters are selected from the group consisting of temperature, salinity and humidity, and wherein the control system (300) is configured to control the system light (1001) based on the environmental signals.

9. An arthropod rearing system (2000) comprising an arthropod housing space (1200) and a light generating system (1000) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the arthropod housing space (1200) is configured to house arthropods, and wherein the light generating system (1000) is configured to provide system light (1001) to the arthropod housing space (1200).

10. A method for feeding arthropods, wherein the method includes providing the arthropods with systematic light (1001), wherein the systematic light (1001) has a spectral power distribution as defined in any one of claims 1-8.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the arthropod is an adult arthropod, and wherein the method comprises providing the system light (1001) according to a recurring temporal pattern (400), wherein the temporal pattern has a pattern duration T selected from the range of 12-24 hours. p The time pattern (400) includes a light period (600) and a dark period (500), and the light period (600) has a light period duration T. d Where 0.45≤T d / T p ≤0.65, and said method includes - During the optical period (600), the system light (1001) is provided with an intensity selected from the range of 0.5-2000 lux; and - During the dark period (500), the system light (1001) is provided at an intensity selected from the range of 0-0.5 lux.

12. The method according to any one of claims 10-11, wherein the method comprises one or more of the following: - Detect arthropod activity, provide relevant behavioral signals, and control the system light (1001) based on said behavioral signals; and - Determine environmental parameters, provide relevant environmental signals, and control the system light (1001) based on the environmental signals, wherein the environmental parameters are selected from the group including temperature, salinity and humidity.

13. The method according to any one of claims 10-11, wherein the method comprises providing system light (1001) using a light generation system (1000) according to any one of claims 1-8 or an arthropod feeding system (2000) according to claim 9.

14. The method according to any one of claims 10-11, wherein the arthropod comprises species selected from the group comprising crustaceans and hexapods.

15. A computer program product comprising instructions for execution on a computer functionally coupled to a light generation system (1000), wherein the instructions, when executed by the computer, cause the light generation system (1000) to perform the method according to any one of claims 10-14.

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