An automated insect sorting and feeding system and its operation method

Abstract

This invention provides an automated insect sorting and feeding system and its operation method. The system includes an automated control system and an intelligent identification system. The intelligent identification system includes a weighing and identification device for weighing and identifying the quantity of cultured larvae. The automated control system is connected to the intelligent identification system to obtain the larval weight and quantity identification results and calculate the sorted larvae mass. The discharge port of the intelligent identification system is connected to the weighing system, and the automated control system is connected to the weighing system to control the weighing system to quantitatively weigh the cultured larvae so that the weighing data reaches the sorted larvae mass. The discharge port of the weighing system is connected to an air conveying system, and the automated control system is connected to the air conveying system to control the air conveying system to transport the cultured larvae into the culture box. This invention can improve the accuracy of insect sorting and feeding, improve product quality, reduce the dependence of automated machinery on manual labor, and reduce project operating costs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of insect breeding equipment technology, specifically to an automated insect sorting and feeding system and its operation method. Background Technology

[0002] Black soldier flies (S. spp.) are saprophytic insects belonging to the family genus *Strombidae*. They feed on livestock manure and kitchen waste, producing high-value animal protein feed. Due to their rapid reproduction, wide diet, high conversion rate, ease of management, low feeding costs, good palatability, and the high nutritional value of their plump, white larvae, they are widely used worldwide. In automated mechanical black soldier fly farming, the breeding process is divided into two or three stages. Both two-stage and three-stage farming involve separating the black soldier fly larvae by weight and then re-introducing them into larger breeding boxes (1.5-2 square meters).

[0003] This phased breeding process requires separating black soldier fly larvae into individual boxes. In practice, factors such as egg quantity, larval size, larval uniformity, and larval moisture content must be considered to determine the appropriate number of larvae to be placed in each box. The separation of larvae is a task that experienced technicians must determine based on their experience. However, even experienced technicians may make errors when dispensing larvae by weight, resulting in too few or too many larvae in a single breeding box. This will affect subsequent separation and processing, the production cycle, and the quality of the larvae.

[0004] The process of adding larvae involves adding 2-3mm black soldier fly larvae, which have completed the previous stage of cultivation, or 5-10mm larvae after weighing and sorting, to automated machinery. Current technology typically involves manual addition of larvae. This method is labor-intensive, requiring constant supervision during automated machinery operation, with larvae added every 2-3 minutes, resulting in 4-6 hours of work per day. In factories with high daily processing volumes, multiple automated machines are usually available, necessitating multiple personnel for larvae addition. Furthermore, manual addition is prone to errors such as repeated or missed additions, affecting production stability and product uniformity.

[0005] Therefore, the existing insect separation and feeding process is labor-intensive and relies heavily on the experience of technicians. It is highly subjective and prone to overfeeding or underfeeding, which will result in a large waste of insect eggs or feed, ultimately leading to substandard products and even production cycle disruptions. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide an automated insect sorting and feeding system and its operation method, in order to improve the accuracy of insect sorting and feeding, improve product quality, reduce the dependence of automated mechanical equipment on manual labor, and reduce project operating costs.

[0007] This application provides the following technical solution: an automated insect sorting and dispensing system, comprising: an automated control system, an intelligent identification system, a weighing system, and an air delivery system;

[0008] The intelligent identification system includes a weighing and identification device for weighing and identifying the number of cultured larvae to be treated. The automated control system is connected to the intelligent identification system for obtaining the larval weight and number identification results and calculating the larval mass based on the larval weight and number identification results.

[0009] The discharge port of the intelligent identification system is connected to the weighing system, which is used to transport the cultured larvae to the weighing system. The automatic control system is connected to the weighing system and is used to control the weighing system to quantitatively weigh the cultured larvae after calculating the mass of the divided larvae, so that the weighing data reaches the mass of the divided larvae.

[0010] The outlet of the weighing system is connected to the air conveying system for conveying the cultured larvae to the air conveying system. The automatic control system is connected to the air conveying system for controlling the air conveying system to deliver the cultured larvae to the culture box using compressed air, thus completing the process of separating and feeding the cultured larvae.

[0011] The formula for calculating the mass of the insects is as follows:

[0012] Larval weight = Organic waste feed weight A × Larval feeding ratio B × (Larva weight F / Larval number G).

[0013] According to one embodiment of this application, the weighing and identification device includes a first hopper, a first receiving box, and a first quantitative weighing component. The first hopper is used to place the cultured larvae to be processed. The outlet of the first hopper is connected to the first receiving box. One end of the first receiving box is open, and the open end is located above the first quantitative weighing component, so that the cultured larvae can fall from the open end of the first receiving box into the first quantitative weighing component.

[0014] The automated control system is used to acquire the weighing data of the first quantitative weighing component in real time, and to control the discharge port of the first hopper to close when the weighing data of the first quantitative weighing component reaches a preset range.

[0015] According to one embodiment of this application, the weighing and identification device further includes a vibration component and an automatic identification component. The vibration component is connected to the first receiving box and is used to control the first receiving box to vibrate so that the cultured larvae fall evenly from the opening end of the first receiving box. The automatic identification component is used to identify the number of cultured larvae falling from the first receiving box to obtain the number of larvae.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this application, the vibration component is a miniature vibrator fixedly disposed at the bottom of the first receiving box, and the miniature vibrator is controlled and connected to the automated control system.

[0017] The automatic identification component includes a camera and a light source device disposed inside the weighing and identification device.

[0018] According to one embodiment of this application, the weighing system includes a second hopper, a second receiving box, and a second quantitative weighing component. The second hopper is used to receive farmed larvae after being identified and counted by the intelligent identification system. The outlet of the second hopper is connected to the second receiving box. One end of the second receiving box is open, and the open end is located above the second quantitative weighing component, so that the farmed larvae can fall from the open end of the second receiving box into the second quantitative weighing component.

[0019] The automated control system is also used to acquire the weighing data of the second quantitative weighing component in real time, and to control the discharge port of the second hopper to close when the weighing data of the second quantitative weighing component reaches the insect separation mass.

[0020] According to one embodiment of this application, the air delivery system includes a power component and an air amplifier. The air output end of the power component is connected to the air input end of the air amplifier. The power component is used to use compressed air as power to draw the cultured larvae and ambient air into the air amplifier simultaneously when the compressed air passes through the air amplifier, and the larvae and ambient air are blown out by the air amplifier at the same time and enter the culture box.

[0021] According to one embodiment of this application, the power assembly includes an air compressor, an air tank, and a refrigerated dryer. Air is introduced into the air compressor through its air inlet, the air outlet of the air compressor is connected to the air tank, the exhaust port of the air tank is connected to the refrigerated dryer, and the exhaust port of the refrigerated dryer is connected to the air input terminal of the air amplifier.

[0022] The connecting pipe between the air tank and the refrigerated dryer also includes a first filter, and the connecting pipe between the refrigerated dryer and the air amplifier also includes a second filter and a third filter, respectively.

[0023] According to one embodiment of this application, the cultured larvae are black soldier fly larvae.

[0024] In another aspect, the present invention also provides a method for operating the automated insect sorting and feeding system as described above, comprising:

[0025] Randomly select 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae weighing more than 30 grams and place them into the intelligent identification system for weighing and quantity identification. The weight and quantity identification results of the larvae are obtained through the automated control system, and the mass of the larvae is calculated based on the weight and quantity identification results of the larvae.

[0026] After calculating the mass of the larvae, the automated control system controls the weighing system to quantitatively weigh the cultured larvae so that the weighing data reaches the mass of the larvae.

[0027] After the weighing system completes the weighing, the automated control system controls the air delivery system to transport the cultured larvae to the culture box using compressed air, thus completing the process of separating and feeding the cultured larvae.

[0028] The formula for calculating the mass of the insects is as follows:

[0029] Larval weight = Organic waste feed weight A × Larval feeding ratio B × (Larva weight F / Larval number G);

[0030] The insect feeding ratio B is obtained by calibrating the number of black soldier fly larvae to be added per kilogram of organic waste; the number of larvae F is obtained by calculating the average value after a series of consecutive identifications e.

[0031] According to one embodiment of this application, the calibration process for the insect feeding ratio B includes:

[0032] A fixed amount of organic solid waste was added to each of the multiple aquaculture containers;

[0033] Black soldier fly larvae of the corresponding lengths at feeding ratios of B1 larvae / kg, B2 larvae / kg, B3 larvae / kg, B4 larvae / kg, B5 larvae / kg, and B6 larvae / kg were added to multiple breeding containers to form experimental groups.

[0034] Black soldier fly larvae were cultured under set temperature and humidity conditions for 5-7 days.

[0035] After the breeding was completed, the material conversion rate and the average mass of black soldier fly larvae were measured in different experimental groups. The feeding ratio corresponding to the experimental group with the highest material conversion rate and the highest average mass of black soldier fly larvae was taken as the optimal feeding ratio B for the organic solid waste.

[0036] Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects achieved by at least one of the above-mentioned technical solutions adopted in the embodiments of this specification include at least the following: The automated insect sorting and feeding system of the embodiments of this invention can automatically feed a number of black soldier fly larvae matching the material quality, and use compressed air as power to transport the black soldier fly larvae into the breeding box, solving the problem of insect sorting and feeding in the automated black soldier fly breeding process. The embodiments of this invention can effectively avoid problems such as feed waste, insufficient feed, and impact on the production cycle caused by too many or too few insects fed manually, reducing the dependence of automated machinery on manual labor, reducing project operating costs, and reducing the occurrence of repeated or missed insect feeding. Furthermore, the experience and data of the system's operation methods can be accumulated and transferred; data from one project can be used in the next project or iteratively optimized based on that data. With increased usage, the accuracy of identification will gradually improve. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the connection of the automated insect sorting and feeding system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the automated insect sorting and feeding process according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent recognition system structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first receiving box according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the air delivery system structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Among them, 1-first hopper, 2-first switch device, 3-first receiving box, 4-vibration component, 5-bolt, 6-spring, 7-first quantitative weighing component, 8-light source device, 9-camera, 10-second switch device, 11-outer shell, 12-air compressor, 13-air tank, 14-refrigerated dryer, 15-air amplifier, 16-breeding box, 17-first filter, 18-second filter, 19-third filter. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in this application can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, providing a clear and complete description of the technical solutions of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0046] like Figure 1 As shown, this invention provides the following technical solution: an automated insect sorting and feeding system, comprising: an automated control system, an intelligent identification system, a weighing system, and an air conveying system; the intelligent identification system includes a weighing and identification device for weighing and identifying the quantity of cultured larvae to be treated; the automated control system is connected to the intelligent identification system for acquiring the larval weight and quantity identification results, and calculating the sorting mass based on the larval weight and quantity identification results; the discharge port of the intelligent identification system is connected to the weighing system for conveying the cultured larvae to the hopper of the weighing system. Alternatively, feeding into the hopper of the weighing system can also be achieved manually or using other equipment. The automated control system is connected to the weighing system and is used to control the weighing system to quantitatively weigh the cultured larvae after calculating the larval separation mass, so that the weighing data reaches the larval separation mass; the outlet of the weighing system is connected to the air conveying system and is used to transport the cultured larvae to the air conveying system; the automated control system is connected to the air conveying system and is used to control the air conveying system to transport the cultured larvae to the culture box by compressed air, thus completing the larval separation and feeding process.

[0047] The formula for calculating the mass of the insects is as follows:

[0048] Larval weight = Organic waste feed weight A × Larval feeding ratio B × (Larva weight F / Larval number G).

[0049] This invention relates to an automated insect sorting and feeding system based on quantity in insect farming. The system comprises four parts: an intelligent identification system, a weighing system, an air conveying system, and an automated control system. The automated control system serves as the central brain of the entire system, enabling automated control of the identification system, weighing system, and air conveying system.

[0050] The cultured larvae in this embodiment are black soldier fly larvae. The following explanation will use the process of separating and releasing black soldier fly larvae as an example.

[0051] The following explanation uses the three stages of black soldier fly farming as an example.

[0052] The three stages of black soldier fly farming include the hatching and rearing stage (3 days), the early larval rearing stage (4 days), and the commercial larvae rearing stage (6 days), with a total rearing time of about 13 days.

[0053] Hatching and rearing stage: Transfer the newly hatched black soldier fly larvae to a rearing box of about 0.2 square meters, add about 3 kg of feed with a moisture content of about 75% for rearing. After about 3 days of rearing, the black soldier fly larvae can grow to about 2-3 mm. At this time, the black soldier fly larvae corresponding to 50 grams of eggs can cover the entire rearing box (0.2 square meters).

[0054] Early larval rearing stage: This is carried out using automated machinery. The reared black soldier fly larvae, approximately 2-3 mm in size, are transferred to a 1.5-2 square meter rearing box. About 40 kg of organic solid waste, such as three-phase separated kitchen waste residue and dehydrated and compressed kitchen waste residue, is added for further rearing. After about 4 days of rearing, the black soldier fly larvae will grow to about 5-10 mm. At this point, 50 grams of eggs corresponding to 5-10 mm black soldier fly larvae can cover the entire rearing box (1.5-2 square meters).

[0055] Commercial soldier fly larvae rearing stage: This is carried out in automated machinery. As the black soldier fly larvae grow, their size increases (50g of eggs corresponds to 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae, which are relatively large and require 1.5-2 square meters). The 5-10mm larvae need to be divided into multiple boxes before being placed back into 1.5-2 square meter rearing boxes for further rearing. The specific operation is as follows: The 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae from the previous stage of rearing are separated from the larvae excrement (the larvae and excrement are mixed together and need to be separated manually or mechanically). In existing technology, after separation, the larvae are weighed. Then, an experienced technician determines how many larvae to weigh and place into a single 1.5-2 square meter rearing box for commercial larvae rearing, based on factors such as size, uniformity, and moisture content. Generally, 50 grams of eggs correspond to 5-10 mm larvae, which can be divided into 5-7 boxes, with each box containing 1.2-3.0 kg of black soldier fly larvae. After separation, the corresponding weight of 5-10 mm larvae is placed into a 1.5-2 square meter rearing box, along with approximately 75 kg of organic solid waste such as three-phase separated kitchen waste residue and dehydrated and compressed kitchen waste residue. After about 6 days of rearing, the black soldier fly larvae will grow to about 15-22 mm, at which point the larvae corresponding to 7-10 g eggs can cover the entire rearing box (1.5-2 square meters). The resulting 15-22 mm black soldier fly larvae are the marketable black soldier fly larvae, which can be processed into black soldier fly insect protein feed after sorting.

[0056] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first step: intelligent recognition system

[0057] The intelligent identification system includes weighing and identification devices. Weighing and quantity identification are for separating 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae into individual boxes. Since the 5-10mm larvae corresponding to 50 grams of eggs occupy a relatively large area (approximately 1.5-2 square meters), they need to be separated into individual boxes before being placed into a rearing box (1.5-2 square meters) for further rearing. The 2-3mm larvae corresponding to 50 grams of eggs occupy less space (approximately 0.2 square meters) and can all be placed into a rearing box (1.5-2 square meters) via an air conveyor system without needing to be separated.

[0058] The purpose of this intelligent identification system is to change the classification of black soldier fly larvae based on their quality (5-10mm) to their quantity (5-10mm).

[0059] Existing techniques often rely on the experience of technicians to determine the weight of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae to be weighed (generally 1.2-3.0kg; after the technicians provide the weight, the 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae are weighed directly and then added to the rearing box). However, this method can lead to significant errors due to the uneven size of the larvae, differences in larval humidity, and the fact that the larvae are generally too large or too small. Furthermore, the experience gained is difficult to replicate easily.

[0060] Since only the total mass of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae was weighed, it is not possible to separate the larvae based on their quantity.

[0061] This method of feeding larvae based on quality can easily lead to an excessive or insufficient quantity of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae in the rearing box. An excessive quantity of larvae will result in smaller larvae, severe fever during rearing, and even death (as each larva can consume less material, leading to intense biological competition among them). An insufficient quantity of larvae will result in the material not being processed within the fixed rearing cycle, ultimately leading to inconsistent production across different batches and making it difficult to achieve stable and continuous production.

[0062] In this embodiment of the invention, the average mass of the batch of black soldier fly larvae is calculated by measuring the mass and quantity of a small amount (5-10 grams) of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae. Then, the total mass of a fixed number of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae (feeding ratio × material mass) is calculated using this average mass. Finally, the total mass of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae is weighed into the breeding box, thereby achieving the purpose of adding a fixed number of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae to the breeding box.

[0063] In addition, since the growth and development of black soldier fly larvae are closely related to the feeding ratio (i.e., the number of black soldier fly larvae in a unit of material), there is a suitable range of black soldier fly larvae numbers when the quality of the material to be treated is constant. Feeding the larvae within this range results in a moderate amount of material to be treated by each 5-10mm black soldier fly larva, which can consume a fixed amount of material to be treated within a fixed period (usually 5-7 days), and the black soldier fly larvae that have been cultured are of a moderate size. If the number of black soldier fly larvae introduced is too small, each larva will have to process / consume a larger amount of material, making it impossible to process the material within a fixed period, and the resulting black soldier fly larvae will be too large. If the number of black soldier fly larvae introduced is too large, each larva will have to process / consume a smaller amount of material, resulting in smaller individual black soldier fly larvae, and may even lead to severe heating of the material, or even mass mortality of black soldier fly larvae.

[0064] Therefore, in this embodiment of the invention, the "insect mass" is used to characterize the total mass of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae, representing the optimal number of larvae to be added to a fixed mass of material. For example, if the material to be treated is 70kg of three-phase separated solid residue from kitchen waste, assuming the optimal larvae ratio is 1500 larvae / kg, then adding 105,000 (70*1500) 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae to this 70kg of material is suitable. The average mass of this batch of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae is 0.014g, so the insect mass corresponding to 105,000 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae is 1.47kg. An insect mass of 1.47kg indicates that 105,000 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae are suitable for adding to 70kg of material, and the total mass of these 105,000 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae is approximately 1.47kg.

[0065] The mass of black soldier fly larvae is calculated as follows: (A) Mass of organic waste fed into the treatment plant × (B) Larval weight / (G) Larval number. The total number of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae required per kilogram of material to be treated is obtained by multiplying the number of larvae (5-10mm) per kilogram of material to be treated (i.e., the larval ratio, larvae / kg) by the total mass of the material to be treated. Multiplying this total number by the average mass of the black soldier fly larvae (larval weight F / larval number G) gives the total mass corresponding to the appropriate number of black soldier fly larvae to be fed into the material to be treated.

[0066] Step Two: Intelligent Recognition System

[0067] The purpose of the second weighing is to weigh the corresponding 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae based on the calculated mass of the larvae. The purpose of the first weighing is to obtain the mass of a small number of 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae, and to calculate the average mass of the black soldier fly larvae (larva weight F / larvae number G) using the mass and quantity. The first weighing uses a high-precision electronic scale (the accuracy needs to reach 0.001g, and the range is generally 50g) (i.e., the first quantitative weighing component mentioned above). However, since the mass of the larvae is generally in the range of 1.2-3kg, this high-precision electronic scale is not suitable.

[0068] The second stage is called a common electronic scale (i.e., the second quantitative weighing component mentioned above). Its accuracy is generally 0.1g, its range is generally 10-30kg, and the mass of insects is generally in the range of 1.2-3kg. This electronic scale is suitable for weighing.

[0069] Step 3: Air Delivery System

[0070] This process uses compressed air to transport 2-3mm black soldier fly larvae corresponding to 50g of eggs, or 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae after separation, into the rearing box. This method of feeding allows for automated control, reduces labor costs, and avoids errors and omissions caused by manual feeding.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, in one embodiment of the present invention, the weighing and identification device includes a housing 11, inside which a first hopper 1 is disposed, a first switch device 2 is disposed at the bottom outlet of the first hopper 1, a first receiving box 3, and a first quantitative weighing component 7. The first hopper 1 is used to hold the cultured larvae to be processed, and the outlet of the first hopper 1 is connected to the first receiving box 3. One end of the first receiving box 3 is open, and its structure is as follows. Figure 4 As shown. The opening end of the first receiving box 3 is located above the first quantitative weighing component 7, so that the cultured larvae can fall from the opening end of the first receiving box 3 into the first quantitative weighing component 7; the automatic control system acquires the weighing data of the first quantitative weighing component 7 in real time, and when the weighing data of the first quantitative weighing component 7 reaches a preset range, the automatic control system controls the discharge port of the first hopper 1 to close.

[0072] In this embodiment, the weighing and identification device further includes a vibration component 4 and an automatic identification component. The vibration component 4 is connected to the first receiving box 3 by bolts 5 and is also fixedly connected to a spring 6 by bolts 5. The spring 6 is fixed on the base and is used to control the vibration of the first receiving box 3 so that the cultured larvae fall evenly from the opening end of the first receiving box 3. The automatic identification component is used to identify the number of cultured larvae falling from the first receiving box to obtain the number of larvae.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the vibration component 4 is a miniature vibrator fixedly installed at the bottom of the first receiving box 3, and the miniature vibrator is connected to the automated control system; the automatic identification component includes a camera 9 and a light source device 8 installed inside the weighing and identification device, and the discharge port of the first quantitative weighing component 7 is provided with a second switch device 10 for controlling the opening and closing of the discharge port.

[0074] In practical implementation, when the automated control system closes the discharge port of the first hopper, the first receiving box continues to vibrate until the automated control system detects that there is no material in the first receiving box, at which point it stops vibrating, and no more black soldier fly larvae fall. Upon receiving a signal that the first quantitative weighing component has completed weighing, the automated control system opens the discharge port at the bottom of the first quantitative weighing component, allowing the black soldier fly larvae to fall into the inlet of the air conveying system. The larvae can then be transported to the weighing system via the air conveying system.

[0075] In this embodiment, the opening and closing of the discharge port of the first feed hopper is controlled by an automated control system. In actual operation, due to the delay in the mechanical process and the fact that the cultured larvae in the first receiving box need a certain amount of time to vibrate before being added to the first quantitative weighing component, the automated control system cannot accurately control the mass of the cultured larvae falling from the discharge port of the first feed hopper onto the weighing pan of the first quantitative weighing component to the set value. Therefore, a range value is set in the automated control system. When the weighing data meets the range value, the discharge port of the first feed hopper is closed, and the automated control system records the current accurate larval weight data.

[0076] In one embodiment of the present invention, the weighing system includes a second hopper, a second receiving box, and a second quantitative weighing component. The second hopper is used to receive cultured larvae after being identified and counted by the intelligent identification system. The outlet of the second hopper is connected to the second receiving box. One end of the second receiving box is open and located above the second quantitative weighing component. A vibration component is also provided at the bottom of the second receiving box, so that the cultured larvae can fall from the open end of the second receiving box into the second quantitative weighing component through vibration. The automated control system acquires the weighing data of the second quantitative weighing component in real time. When the weighing data of the second quantitative weighing component reaches the larvae separation mass, the automated control system controls the outlet of the second hopper to close.

[0077] In actual operation, the intelligent identification system and the weighing system are connected through pipes and air amplifiers. After the weighing and identification device completes the weighing and quantity identification, compressed air can be used as power to transport the cultured larvae from the outlet of the first quantitative weighing component to the second hopper of the weighing system. The cultured larvae are then transported to the second hopper of the weighing system through pipes by the air amplifier.

[0078] According to one embodiment of this application, the air delivery system includes a power component and an air amplifier. The air output end of the power component is connected to the air input end of the air amplifier. The power component is used to use compressed air as power to draw the cultured larvae and ambient air into the air amplifier simultaneously when the compressed air passes through the air amplifier, and the larvae and ambient air are blown out by the air amplifier at the same time and enter the culture box.

[0079] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, the power assembly includes an air compressor 12, an air tank 13, and a refrigerated dryer 14. Air is introduced into the air compressor 12, and its outlet is connected to the air tank 13. The exhaust port of the air tank 13 is connected to the refrigerated dryer 14, and its exhaust port is connected to the air input of an air amplifier 15. The exhaust port of the air amplifier 15 leads into the breeding box 16. The connecting pipe between the air tank 13 and the refrigerated dryer 14 also includes a first filter 17, and the connecting pipe between the refrigerated dryer 14 and the air amplifier 15 further includes a second filter 18 and a third filter 19. This triple filtration system removes impurities from the air, ensuring air purity and preventing damage to the air compressor, refrigerated dryer, air tank, and other equipment.

[0080] In another embodiment of the present invention, an operation method for the automated insect sorting and feeding system as described above is also provided, comprising:

[0081] Randomly select 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae weighing more than 30 grams and place them into the intelligent identification system for weighing and quantity identification. The weight and quantity identification results of the larvae are obtained through the automated control system, and the mass of the larvae is calculated based on the weight and quantity identification results of the larvae.

[0082] After calculating the mass of the larvae, the automated control system controls the weighing system to quantitatively weigh the cultured larvae so that the weighing data reaches the mass of the larvae.

[0083] After the weighing system completes the weighing, the automated control system controls the air delivery system to transport the cultured larvae to the culture box using compressed air, thus completing the process of separating and feeding the cultured larvae.

[0084] The formula for calculating the mass of the insects is as follows:

[0085] Larval weight = Organic waste feed weight A × Larval feeding ratio B × (Larva weight F / Larval number G);

[0086] The insect feeding ratio B is obtained by calibrating the number of black soldier fly larvae to be added per kilogram of organic waste; the number of larvae F is obtained by calculating the average value after a series of consecutive identifications e.

[0087] The operation method of this system, when implemented, includes the following steps:

[0088] 1. Set control parameters in the automatic control system. The control parameters include: organic waste feeding mass A, insect feeding ratio B (number of black soldier fly larvae to be added per kilogram of organic waste), preset weighing range c (5-10 grams), vibration duration d, and parameter e (average of multiple measurements and identifications).

[0089] The organic waste addition mass A is closely related to the area of ​​the breeding box. Organic waste addition mass A refers to the total mass of organic waste added when it is added to the breeding box, spread evenly, and piled up to a thickness of approximately 4-6 cm. A material pile thickness of approximately 4-6 cm results in higher breeding efficiency and moderate heat generation during the black soldier fly larvae's growth. Excessive pile thickness can lead to severe heat generation by the larvae and material compaction and stratification; insufficient pile thickness results in a large footprint and low breeding efficiency.

[0090] Because there are many types of organic waste (kitchen waste, chicken manure, pig manure, waste fruit, distiller's grains, etc.), the nutritional components, moisture content, oil content, and impurity content of different organic wastes are all different. Therefore, before using black soldier fly larvae to treat different organic wastes, it is necessary to calibrate the insect feeding ratio B, that is, the number of black soldier fly larvae to be added per kilogram of organic waste.

[0091] The calibration steps for insect feeding ratio B are as follows:

[0092] (1) Add an appropriate amount of organic solid waste (generally 60-90 kg, after the material is spread out, the thickness of the material pile should not exceed 6 cm) to the breeding container (1.5-2 square meters).

[0093] (2) After feeding, black soldier fly larvae were added to different breeding plants at feeding ratios of 1000 larvae / kg, 1200 larvae / kg, 1400 larvae / kg, 1600 larvae / kg, 1800 larvae / kg, and 2000 larvae / kg respectively.

[0094] (3) Raise black soldier fly larvae under suitable temperature and humidity conditions for 6 days.

[0095] (4) After the breeding is completed, the material conversion rate and the average mass of black soldier fly larvae in different experimental groups are measured. The feeding ratio of the experimental group with the highest material conversion rate and the highest average mass of black soldier fly larvae is the optimal feeding ratio B for the organic waste.

[0096] 2. Before formal use, the intelligent recognition system should be trained more than 10 times to calibrate the recognition size and accuracy in order to achieve efficient and accurate recognition of the number of points.

[0097] 3. Randomly select black soldier fly larvae weighing more than 30 grams (5-10mm) and place them into the hopper of the intelligent identification system. Upon detecting the addition of material, the intelligent identification system opens the discharge port at the bottom of the hopper, allowing the larvae to fall into the receiving box. The receiving box vibrates, and the larvae fall from the opening into the quantitative weighing component. A camera identifies and counts the larvae during the falling process, and the automatic control system records the number of larvae (G). When the quantitative weighing component detects that the mass of the larvae reaches a preset range, the discharge port at the bottom of the hopper closes, and the automatic control system records the larvae weight (F) for this weighing. At this point, the automatic control system analyzes the collected data and calculates the larvae mass. For multiple consecutive identifications, the average value is calculated.

[0098] 4. The automated control system starts the weighing system. At this time, the 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae to be separated are added to the hopper of the weighing system. The discharge port at the bottom of the hopper opens, and the black soldier fly larvae fall into the receiving box. The receiving box vibrates, and the black soldier fly larvae fall from the opening of the receiving box into the quantitative weighing component. When the designated separation mass is reached, the discharge port at the bottom of the hopper closes, and no more black soldier fly larvae fall, completing the weighing. The automated control system receives a signal indicating that the weighing is complete, and the discharge port at the bottom of the weighing system opens again, allowing the black soldier fly larvae to fall into the inlet of the air conveying system.

[0099] 5. The automated control system activates the air delivery system. The power unit utilizes compressed air. As the compressed air passes through the annular narrow slit of the air amplifier, the Coanda effect and the amplifier's unique geometry draw in black soldier fly larvae and a large amount of ambient air, which are then expelled from the amplifier along with the original compressed air. The larvae move along the pipe to the discharge port and are ultimately transferred to the rearing box. This completes the automated separation and feeding of black soldier fly larvae.

[0100] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An automated insect sorting and dispensing system, characterized in that, include: Automated control systems, intelligent identification systems, weighing systems, and air conveying systems; The intelligent identification system includes a weighing and identification device for weighing and identifying the number of cultured larvae to be treated. The automated control system is connected to the intelligent identification system for obtaining the larval weight and number identification results and calculating the larval mass based on the larval weight and number identification results. The discharge port of the intelligent identification system is connected to the weighing system, which is used to transport the cultured larvae to the weighing system. The automatic control system is connected to the weighing system and is used to control the weighing system to quantitatively weigh the cultured larvae after calculating the mass of the divided larvae, so that the weighing data reaches the mass of the divided larvae. The outlet of the weighing system is connected to the air conveying system for conveying the cultured larvae to the air conveying system. The automatic control system is connected to the air conveying system for controlling the air conveying system to deliver the cultured larvae to the culture box using compressed air, thus completing the process of separating and feeding the cultured larvae. The air delivery system includes a power unit and an air amplifier. The air output end of the power unit is connected to the air input end of the air amplifier. The power unit is used to use compressed air as power to draw the cultured larvae and ambient air into the air amplifier at the same time as the compressed air passes through it, and the larvae and ambient air are blown out by the air amplifier at the same time and enter the culture box. The power assembly includes an air compressor, an air tank, and a refrigerated dryer. Air is introduced into the air compressor through its inlet, the air outlet of the air compressor is connected to the air tank, the exhaust port of the air tank is connected to the refrigerated dryer, and the exhaust port of the refrigerated dryer is connected to the air input terminal of the air amplifier. The connecting pipe between the gas storage tank and the refrigerated dryer also includes a first filter, and the connecting pipe between the refrigerated dryer and the air amplifier also includes a second filter and a third filter, respectively. The formula for calculating the mass of the insects is as follows: Larval weight = Organic waste feed weight A × Larval feeding ratio B × (Larva weight F / Larval number G); The operation method of the automated insect sorting and dispensing system includes: Randomly select 5-10mm black soldier fly larvae weighing more than 30 grams and place them in an intelligent identification system for weighing and quantity identification. The weight and quantity identification results of the larvae are obtained through an automated control system, and the mass of the larvae is calculated based on the weight and quantity identification results of the larvae. After calculating the mass of the larvae, the automated control system controls the weighing system to quantitatively weigh the cultured larvae so that the weighing data reaches the mass of the larvae. After the weighing system completes the weighing, the automated control system controls the air delivery system to transport the cultured larvae to the culture box using compressed air, thus completing the process of separating and feeding the cultured larvae. The insect feeding ratio B is obtained by calibrating the number of black soldier fly larvae required per kilogram of organic waste; the number of larvae F is obtained by calculating the average value after a series of consecutive identifications e. The calibration process for the insect feeding ratio B includes: A fixed amount of organic solid waste was added to each of the multiple aquaculture containers; Black soldier fly larvae of the corresponding lengths at feeding ratios of B1 larvae / kg, B2 larvae / kg, B3 larvae / kg, B4 larvae / kg, B5 larvae / kg, and B6 larvae / kg were added to multiple breeding containers to form experimental groups. Black soldier fly larvae were cultured under set temperature and humidity conditions for 5-7 days. After the breeding was completed, the material conversion rate and the average mass of black soldier fly larvae were measured in different experimental groups. The feeding ratio corresponding to the experimental group with the highest material conversion rate and the highest average mass of black soldier fly larvae was taken as the optimal feeding ratio B for the organic solid waste.

2. The automated insect sorting and feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The weighing and identification device includes a first hopper, a first receiving box, and a first quantitative weighing component. The first hopper is used to hold the cultured larvae to be processed. The outlet of the first hopper is connected to the first receiving box. One end of the first receiving box is open, and the open end is located above the first quantitative weighing component, so that the cultured larvae can fall from the open end of the first receiving box into the first quantitative weighing component. The automated control system is used to acquire the weighing data of the first quantitative weighing component in real time, and to control the discharge port of the first hopper to close when the weighing data of the first quantitative weighing component reaches a preset range.

3. The automated insect sorting and feeding system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The weighing and identification device also includes a vibration component and an automatic identification component. The vibration component is connected to the first receiving box and is used to control the first receiving box to vibrate so that the cultured larvae fall evenly from the opening end of the first receiving box. The automatic identification component is used to identify the number of cultured larvae that fall from the first receiving box, and to obtain the number of larvae.

4. The automated insect sorting and feeding system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The vibration component is a miniature vibrator fixedly installed at the bottom of the first receiving box, and the miniature vibrator is connected to the automated control system. The automatic identification component includes a camera and a light source device disposed inside the weighing and identification device.

5. The automated insect sorting and feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The weighing system includes a second hopper, a second receiving box, and a second quantitative weighing component. The second hopper is used to receive the cultured larvae after they have been identified and counted by the intelligent identification system. The outlet of the second hopper is connected to the second receiving box. One end of the second receiving box is open, and the open end is located above the second quantitative weighing component, so that the cultured larvae can fall from the open end of the second receiving box into the second quantitative weighing component. The automated control system is also used to acquire the weighing data of the second quantitative weighing component in real time, and to control the discharge port of the second hopper to close when the weighing data of the second quantitative weighing component reaches the insect separation mass.

6. The automated insect sorting and feeding system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cultured larvae are black soldier fly larvae.

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