Cleaning apparatus, conveying device and separating device for insects or worms and corresponding method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a cleaning apparatus for cleaning live insects, in particular live insect larvae, or live worms, the cleaning apparatus comprising a collecting device for receiving the insects or worms and mixing them with water, forming a mixture, a first conveying device for conveying the mixture from the collecting device, and a first larvae separating device for separating the insects or worms from the water of the mixture conveyed by the first conveying device. The separated water can be further used in the insect apparatus, in particular the cleaning apparatus, in particular at least partially recirculated in the cleaning apparatus.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the processing or handling of insect larvae. In particular, the present disclosure comprises a washing device for washing live insects, in particular live insect larvae or live worms, a method for using such a washing device, a conveying device and a washing device. BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of obtaining nutrients, feed and food from insects or worms.

[0003] In the past decades, there has been an increasing interest in using insects and worms as a source of food and feed, particularly in view of the growing world population and the increasing demand for alternative and sustainable protein sources for livestock farming. Since insects and worms are generally rich in protein and fat, they have a relatively high nutritional or caloric value and are particularly suitable for use in human nutrition and livestock farming, respectively.

[0004] It is desirable, both economically and ecologically, to breed and process insects and worms on an industrial scale in order to produce standardized nutrients, which can then be used to produce food or feed. During the processing, it is important to handle the still living insects gently and to produce a safe end product.

[0005] In order to obtain larvae that are as clean as possible, without any residues from the breeding process, a washing with water is sometimes used in the processing chain. A disadvantage of known methods and devices is that the sieving efficiency is often insufficient during the separation of the insects and the water. Furthermore, the water consumption is often high and the gentle transport and effective washing of the insects, i.e. the sufficient removal of residues from the breeding process, is not always guaranteed. In conventional devices, live larvae or worms can also crawl through the openings of the sieve.

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to overcome the disadvantages known from the prior art. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a washing device for washing live insects or worms and a corresponding method for washing live insects or worms, which ensures a gentle and pressureless handling or processing of the live insects or worms and which includes a reuse or treatment of the water. Furthermore, the storage of the live insects or worms in water is to separate the breeding of the insects from the further processing, to enable an independent operation of these two fields and to increase the flexibility of the device. When referring to "insects" or "larvae" in the following, it is also to be understood that insects, larvae or worms are included without an explicit reference.

[0007] These objects are achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further advantageous embodiments result from the combination of the features of the corresponding dependent claims and from the embodiments in the description and the drawings. SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention relates to a washing device for washing live insects, in particular live insect larvae or live worms, and to the use of the washing device. The present invention further relates to a conveying device and to a larvae separation device. The invention is defined in the independent claims. The dependent claims describe preferred embodiments.

[0009] In particular, the present disclosure relates to a washing device for washing live insects, in particular live insect larvae or live worms, comprising a collecting device for receiving insects or worms and mixing them with water, forming a mixture, a first conveying device for conveying the mixture from the collecting device, and a first larvae separation device for separating insects or worms from the water of the mixture conveyed by the first conveying device. The separated water can be further used in the insect device, in particular the washing device, in particular at least partially recirculated in the washing device.

[0010] Various embodiments can further include the following features.

[0011] The washing device further preferably comprises at least one storage tank for bulk storage of the mixture, wherein the at least one storage tank is preferably arranged after the first conveying device, wherein the washing device preferably further comprises at least one further conveying device for conveying the mixture. The at least one further conveying device is preferably arranged between the first conveying device and the storage tank or after the storage tank.

[0012] Further, a further collecting device can be provided for receiving insects or worms and mixing them with water, forming a mixture, wherein the at least one further collecting device is preferably arranged after the first larvae separation device.

[0013] The washing device further preferably comprises at least one further larvae separation device for further separating insects or worms from the water of the conveyed mixture. Preferably, the separated water can be further used in the insect device, in particular the washing device, in particular at least partially recirculated in the washing device. Preferably, the at least one further larvae separation device is arranged after the first larvae separation device.

[0014] At least one further water supply device can be provided for reflushing the mixture, the water supply device preferably being arranged in the cycle after the first larvae separation device and / or the further collecting device and / or the at least one storage tank.

[0015] Preferably, at least one water tank is provided for storing water from the cycle and discharging water into the cycle.

[0016] Preferably, at least one filtering device is provided for filtering the water separated from the first larvae separation device and / or the at least one further larvae separation device.

[0017] Preferably, at least one temperature regulating device is provided for regulating the water temperature, wherein the at least one temperature regulating device is preferably arranged between the at least one water tank and the collecting device or at the water tank.

[0018] Preferably, at least one weighing device is provided for determining the weight of the insects or worms, wherein the weighing device is preferably arranged before the collecting device or integrated in the collecting device.

[0019] Further, the present disclosure also comprises a method for washing live insects, in particular live insect larvae or live worms, with the washing apparatus described above. The method comprises the following steps:

[0020] - feeding the live insects or live worms into the collecting device;

[0021] - first mixing the live insects or live worms with water until a predetermined mixture is formed;

[0022] - transporting the mixture by means of the first conveying device to the first larvae separation device;

[0023] - first separating the mixture in the first larvae separation device;

[0024] - at least partially providing or recirculating the separated water for further use in the insect apparatus, in particular the washing apparatus.

[0025] Various embodiments can further include the following features.

[0026] The method further preferably comprises transporting the mixture separated in the first larvae separation device by means of the second conveying device into the at least one storage tank and storing the mixture in the at least one storage tank.

[0027] The present disclosure also comprises a conveying device for conveying live insects, in particular live insect larvae or live worms, in particular in a washing apparatus as described above, wherein the conveying device is configured as a non-contact pump, wherein the non-contact pump is in particular a peristaltic pump.

[0028] According to the present disclosure, a larvae separation device for separating live insects, in particular live insect larvae or live worms, from water, in particular in a washing apparatus as described above, comprises a screen drum having a housing portion with a screen opening width of the screen openings of 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably of 1.3 mm to 2.0 mm, and having a transport screw within the screen drum for transporting the insects or worms from an inlet end of the screen drum to an outlet end of the screen drum.

[0029] Various embodiments can further include the following features.

[0030] Preferably, the housing part of the sieve drum is a wedge wire screen. Preferably, the inner diameter of the sieve drum is 500 mm to 3000 mm, preferably 1000 mm to 1500 mm, particularly preferably 1100 mm to 1250 mm.

[0031] Preferably, the transport screw has a screw length which extends the entire length of the sieve drum. Preferably, the screw height of the transport screw is 5 mm to 300 mm, preferably 50 mm to 150 mm, particularly preferably 70 mm to 100 mm. Preferably, the screw pitch of the transport screw is 200 mm to 600 mm, preferably 300 mm to 400 mm, particularly preferably 330 mm to 375 mm.

[0032] Preferably, at least one spray bar is provided for spraying a liquid via preferably a plurality of nozzles. Preferably, the at least one spray bar has 5 to 40 nozzles, preferably 8 to 28 nozzles. Preferably, the at least one spray bar is arranged inside and / or outside the sieve drum.

[0033] Preferably, at least one cleaning element is provided for cleaning the housing part of the sieve drum. Preferably, the at least one cleaning element is configured for cleaning the outside of the sieve drum and / or is configured as a brush element.

[0034] The at least one cleaning element preferably extends the entire length of the sieve drum.

[0035] According to the present disclosure, a method for separating living insects, in particular living insect larvae or living worms, from water by means of a larva separating device as described above, comprising the following steps:

[0036] - feeding a mixture of insects, in particular insect larvae or worms, and water, wherein the temperature of the mixture is 5 °C to 30 °C, preferably 8 °C to 15 °C or 20 °C to 26 °C, wherein the feeding is preferably continuous,

[0037] - rotating the sieve drum, wherein the water in the mixture is discharged and the insects or worms are transported to the outlet.

[0038] Various embodiments can further include the following features.

[0039] Preferably, the rotational speed of the sieve drum is 2 revolutions per minute to 60 revolutions per minute, preferably 5 revolutions per minute to 20 revolutions per minute, particularly preferably 10 revolutions per minute to 15 revolutions per minute.

[0040] Preferably, these live insects or live worms are sprayed with water from at least one spray bar, preferably at least one spray bar arranged inside the sieve drum, during transport in the sieve drum, wherein the spraying is preferably continuous and / or takes place with a water pressure of 2 to 10 bar, preferably 3 to 7 bar. For cleaning the sieve drum, preferably, the sieve drum is sprayed with a liquid by at least one spray bar, preferably a spray bar arranged outside the sieve drum, during rotation of the sieve drum. Preferably, at least one cleaning element is in contact with the sieve drum during rotation of the sieve drum for cleaning purposes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0041] The application is explained in more detail below with the help of examples and the attached drawings. In the drawings:

[0042] Figure 1a A schematic representation of a cleaning apparatus according to the application is shown, together with an example of a cleaning step;

[0043] Figure 1b A schematic representation of a cleaning apparatus according to the application is shown, together with an example of a cleaning step and storage of insects or worms;

[0044] Figure 2a A schematic representation of a cleaning apparatus according to the application is shown, together with an example of a cleaning step;

[0045] Figure 2b A schematic representation of a cleaning apparatus according to the application is shown, together with an example of a cleaning step and storage of insects or worms;

[0046] Figure 2c A schematic representation of a cleaning apparatus according to the application is shown, together with an example of a cleaning step and storage of insects or worms, together with a proportion or concentration control in the storage tank;

[0047] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a conveying device according to the application is shown; and

[0048] Figure 4a and Figure 4b A schematic representation of a larva separation device according to the application is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] In the following, elements having the same meaning, even if they should have different reference signs, are structurally similar or identical, unless stated otherwise. The same applies to the reference signs. All embodiments apply equally to insects, in particular insect larvae and worms.

[0050] Figure 1aAn exemplary system according to the present disclosure is shown. In particular, a system for processing live insects, in particular live larvae or live worms, is shown along with a washing step. The system can also be referred to as a washing apparatus. Within the system, the live insects or worms are processed with a closed water cycle that includes an insect washing device or insect separation apparatus 120, a waste water purification device or filter device 142, and a water temperature regulating device 145. The water is used to transport and wash the insects and can also be used to wash certain elements of the washing apparatus, such as the tank. Another suitable liquid can be used in place of water to move the insects within the system with the liquid. Control devices are provided to monitor and adjust the processing of the larvae, for example, the ratio of water to larvae in the system.

[0051] The insects, in particular live insects, larvae or worms, come out of the rearing boxes 110 onto the weighing device 111. The weighing device 111 can be arranged to be separate or integrated into a transport means, such as a conveyor belt or a conveyor. The boxes in which the insects are reared can also be weighed entirely. In the weighing device 111, the harvested insects are weighed (directly or indirectly together with the boxes) and it is determined how much water has to be added to obtain the desired weight ratio of larvae to water, for example about 1 : 10. For this purpose, the insects are fed into the collecting device 112, to which clean water is added by means of a pump until the desired weight ratio is reached. Alternatively or additionally, the weighing device 111 can also be arranged integrated in the collecting device 112 or the collecting device 112 can be arranged on the weighing sensor of the weighing device 111. The 1 : 10 ratio mentioned here is only an example, different amounts of water can be added depending on the type of insects and / or the specifications of the apparatus. It has proved advantageous to mix the larvae with water in a ratio of 1 : 1 to 1 : 10. The water can be temperature-regulated in advance by means of a heat exchanger 145. The cooled water can cool the insects or worms so that they enter a diapause or hibernation state. This deactivates the metabolism of the insects, making them easier to store. This can be achieved at temperatures below 15°C, preferably at temperatures of 8°C to 15°C. Depending on the degree of contamination, warmer water, i.e. water that has been heated or has an ambient temperature of, for example, 20°C to 30°C, preferably up to 26°C, can achieve a better cleaning result. Furthermore, the energy consumption is reduced since the water does not have to be cooled or heated. However, since the insects or worms are not brought into a diapause, they can be stored for a shorter period of time. The mixture of insects, larvae or worms and water is then pumped by means of a first conveying device 113 to the larvae separation device 120. This separates the water from the larvae and changes the ratio of larvae to water in the desired manner, which will be described in more detail by way of example below. This process can also be referred to as draining. Furthermore, in this process the insects are cleaned and excrement and food residues can be removed. The larvae separation device 120 can also be referred to as a cleaning device. The waste water is fed to a substrate filter 142, which filters the solids from the water and pumps the solids by means of a pump 143 to a water tank 144. Instead of a filter 142, a centrifuge can also be used.

[0052] In order to be able to adjust the weight ratio after the larvae separation device 120, to replace the water in which the insects or worms are stored, or to achieve a better cleaning result, a clean water supply 122 is provided. The amount of clean water supplied can be checked by means of a flow meter (not shown). In particular, the amount of clean water can be determined by volume or weight. The water is recirculated by means of the substrate filter 142, which purifies the water, and by means of the pump 143, which pumps it into the water tank 144. There, the waste water can be removed and, optionally, clean water can be added by means of the clean water supply. The supply of clean water and the removal of waste water can also be useful at other locations in the system.

[0053] As mentioned above, the purified water from the water tank 144 is tempered by the heat exchanger 145 described above and is pumped by the pump 147 into the collecting device 112, where it is mixed with the insects or worms, to be returned to the cycle. A flow meter V can also be provided to measure the amount of water added. The amount of water added can also be controlled by weight. Furthermore, the heat exchanger 145 can also be equipped with heating elements to adjust the water temperature. Furthermore, the collecting device 112, the transport devices 113, 121 and / or the separating device 120 can also be temperature-regulated in order to be able to adjust the water temperature.

[0054] Figure 1b An exemplary system according to the present disclosure is shown. In addition to the Figure 1a The system further comprises a method of storing insects or worms, in addition to the embodiment shown. Within the system, live insects or worms are treated with a closed water cycle, which comprises at least one storage tank 130, 132, an insect washing device or an insect separating apparatus 120, a waste water purification device 142 and a water temperature regulating device 145. Here, the water is used for transporting and washing the insects. Another suitable liquid can be used instead of water, with the insects being moved within the system together with the liquid. A control device is provided to monitor and adjust the treatment of the larvae, for example, the ratio of water and larvae in the system.

[0055] The insects, in particular live insects, larvae or worms, come out of the rearing boxes 110 onto a weighing device 111. The weighing device 111 can be arranged to be separate or integrated into a transport means, such as a conveyor belt or a conveyor. The boxes in which the insects are reared can also be weighed entirely. In the weighing device 111, the harvested insects are weighed (directly or indirectly together with the boxes) and it is determined how much water has to be added to obtain the desired weight ratio of larvae to water, for example approximately 1 : 10. For this purpose, the insects are fed into a collecting device 112 to which clean water is added by means of a pump until the desired weight ratio is achieved. Alternatively or additionally, the weighing device 111 can also be arranged in the collecting device 112 or the collecting device 112 can be arranged on the weighing sensor of the weighing device 111. The 1 : 10 ratio mentioned here is only an example, different amounts of water can be added depending on the type of insects and / or the specifications of the equipment. It has proven advantageous to mix the larvae with water in a ratio of 1 : 1 to 1 : 10. The water can be temperature-regulated in advance by means of a heat exchanger 145. The cooled water can cool the insects or worms so that they enter a diapause or hibernation state. This deactivates the metabolism of the insects, which makes them easier to store. This can be achieved at temperatures below 15°C, preferably at temperatures of 8°C to 15°C. Depending on the degree of contamination, warmer water, i.e. water that is heated or has an ambient temperature of, for example, 20°C to 30°C, preferably up to 26°C, can achieve a better cleaning result. In addition, the energy consumption is reduced since the water does not have to be cooled or heated. However, since the insects or worms are not brought into a diapause, they can be stored for a shorter period of time. The mixture of insects and larvae or worms is then transported by means of a first conveying device 113 into at least one storage box 130, 132. The first conveying device 113 can in particular be configured as a non-contact pump, for example a peristaltic pump, in order not to harm or crush the insects. The insects whose metabolism is deactivated, i.e. which are in a diapause, can be stored in the storage boxes 130, 132 until further processing.

[0056] The cleaned insects are pumped out of the one or more storage boxes 130, 132 by means of a second conveying device 121, which is also preferably configured as a non-contact pump. Here, the ratio of insects to water is between 1 : 1 and 1 : 10, preferably 1 : 4.

[0057] The larva separation device 120, which will be described in more detail below by way of example, separates water from the larvae after the second transport device 121 in order to change the ratio of larvae to water in a desired manner. This can also be referred to as draining. In addition, in this process the insects are washed and excrement and food residues can be removed. The larva separation device 120 can also be referred to as a washing device. The waste water is fed to a substrate filter 142, which filters solids from the water and pumps the solids to a water tank 144 by means of a pump 143. Instead of the filter 142, a centrifuge can also be used.

[0058] In order to be able to adjust the weight ratio after the larva separation device 120, to replace the water in which the insects or worms are stored, or to achieve a better washing result, a clean water supply 122 is provided. The amount of clean water supplied can be checked by means of a flow meter (not shown). In particular, the amount of clean water can be determined in terms of volume or weight. The water is recirculated by means of the substrate filter 142, which purifies the water, and the pump 143, which pumps the water into the water tank 144. There, the waste water can be removed and, optionally, clean water can be added by means of the clean water supply. The supply of clean water and the removal of waste water can also be useful at other locations in the system.

[0059] As described above, the purified water from the water tank 144 is tempered by means of the heat exchanger 145 described above and is pumped by means of the pump 147 into the collection device 112, where it is mixed with the insects or worms and thus returned to the cycle. A flow meter V can also be provided to measure the amount of water added. The amount of water added can also be controlled in terms of weight. In addition, the heat exchanger 145 can also be equipped with heating elements to adjust the water temperature. In addition, the collection device 112, the transport devices 113, 121 and / or the separation device 120 can also be temperature-regulated in order to be able to adjust the water temperature.

[0060] This ensures an efficient water cycle, which gently transports, washes and stores the insects while reducing the amount of waste water produced.

[0061] Figure 2a Examples of a washing apparatus according to the present disclosure are shown along with further embodiments of the two washing steps. Unless otherwise stated, elements of the same name correspond to elements of the embodiments of Figure 1a and Figure 1b and can be used in both embodiments.

[0062] The live insects, in particular live larvae or live worms, from the rearing box 210 are weighed in the weighing device 211 and are transported into the collection container 212, where they are mixed with water, which is drawn from the water tank 244 by means of the pump 247 and tempered by means of the heat exchanger 246. The temperature of the water can be adjusted in terms of Figure 1a and Figure 1bThe selection can be made based on the description. Weighing can also be performed in a collection container or collection device 212, or the collection device can be located on the load cell. The heat exchanger 246 can cool the water, or it can be equipped with a heating element to regulate the water temperature. Water at ambient temperature can also be used.

[0063] Similarly, the insect-to-water weight ratio is preferably 1:10, but other weight ratios are also applicable. The mixture is pumped by pump 213, preferably a non-contact pump, such as a peristaltic pump, to the first larval separation device 220. There, the insects and water are separated to the desired weight ratio; in other words, the water is drained. Excess water flows into the matrix filter 242, is purified, and then pumped by pump 243 into the water tank 244 for storage. The cleaned insects or worms, or the cleaned water and insects or worms mixture, is conveyed from the larval separation device 220 to a separate collection device 223. The insect or worm-to-water weight ratio in the collection device 223 can be between 1:1 and 1:10, preferably 1:4, and can be adjusted by the clean water supply device 222. Similarly, a flow meter V or a weight-based sensor can be used to measure the amount of clean water.

[0064] The insect-water mixture is then conveyed via a second conveying device 221 to a second larval separation device 240, which is preferably also configured as a non-contact pump, in which, optionally with the addition of clean water 241, the insects or worms are partially or completely separated from the water. The larval separation device 240 may be similar to or identical to the larval separation device 220. The water separated from the second larval separation device 240 is purified in a matrix filter 242 and pumped into a water tank 244 by a pump 243. There, depending on the water conditions, wastewater 248 can be extracted and clean water 245 supplied.

[0065] As described above and as shown in the embodiment according to FIG1, the water from the water tank 244 is recycled and mixed with the insects in the collection tank 212.

[0066] Figure 2b Other embodiments of the cleaning apparatus according to this disclosure, along with two cleaning steps, and examples of methods for storing insects or worms are shown. Unless otherwise stated, elements with the same name correspond to... Figure 1a , Figure 1b and Figure 2a The elements of the embodiments can be used in both implementations.

[0067] This implementation corresponds to until... Figure 2aThe first larvae separation device 220 is shown. In the first larvae separation device 220, the insects are separated from the water to a desired weight ratio, in other words, drained, and the excess water flows into the substrate filter 242, is cleaned and pumped by the pump 243 into the water tank 244 for storage. As mentioned above, the weight ratio of insects to water after the first larvae separation device 220 can be between 1 : 1 and 1 : 10, preferably 1 : 4, and can be adjusted by the clean water supply 222. Again, a flow meter V or a weight-based sensor can be provided to measure the amount of clean water.

[0068] The insect-water mixture is then pumped by the second conveying device 221 into the storage tank 230, which is also preferably configured as a non-contact pump. There, clean water can be added as needed.

[0069] If the insects are to be fed for further processing 250, they are fed from the storage tank 230 by the third conveying device 231 into the second larvae separation device 240, in which the insects are partially or completely separated from the water, optionally with clean water 241 supply. The larvae separation device 240 is similar or identical to the larvae separation device 220. The water separated from the second larvae separation device 240 is cleaned in the substrate filter 242 and pumped by the pump 243 into the water tank 244. There, depending on the water situation, waste water 248 can be drawn off and clean water 245 can be supplied.

[0070] As mentioned above and as shown in the embodiments according to Figure 1a , Figure 1b and Figure 2a water from the water tank 244 is recirculated and mixed with the insects in the collection tank 212.

[0071] Figure 2c An example of a further embodiment of a washing apparatus according to the present disclosure is shown. This embodiment provides a method of adjusting the ratio of water to larvae or worms in the water tank, thereby making the number of larvae or worms in the storage tank flexible. This embodiment is essentially identical to the embodiment shown in Figure 2b . Compared to the embodiment shown in Figure 2b a water pump 232 is provided, which has a downstream flow meter V or weight-based sensor, which draws off water, thereby controlling the weight ratio of insects to water in the storage tank 230. Preferably, a screen or retention device is placed to prevent the insects from being drawn off with the water by the pump 232.

[0072] By referring to the system shown in the above figures, the breeding and further processing of insects are separated from each other in terms of the process, so that a higher flexibility in production can be achieved. Furthermore, the insects can be transported, washed and stored without being damaged.

[0073] Figure 3 A conveying device 113, 121, 213, 221, 231 is shown, which is suitable for conveying the mixture of insects and water described above. Figure 3 It is shown that the insects are fed by the larvae supply 500 with water from the water supply 501, and the mixture is conveyed by the conveying device, in particular a non-contact pump or a peristaltic pump, to the outlet 502. Another suitable non-sticky liquid can be used instead of water, and the mixture of insects and liquid is pumped. The proposed peristaltic pump is a non-contact pump, in which the rotor blades do not directly contact the liquid to be pumped.

[0074] Alternatively, other gentle conveying devices can be used in all embodiments of the present disclosure, such as a screw pump, a rotary vane pump, a rotary piston pump, a piston pump, an eccentric screw pump or a slow centrifugal pump.

[0075] Preferably, the weight ratio of insects to liquid is between 1:10 and 1:1. The pumping capacity can be between 5 m 3 / h and 100 m 3 / h. The size of the insects to be pumped is preferably less than 35 mm.

[0076] In particular, the conveying device can be used in a system as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Thereby, live insects can be transported safely and efficiently without harming them. Furthermore, no unnecessary stress is caused to the animals. The stress can also be reduced by cooling the liquid to below 15°C, preferably to 8°C to 15°C, so that the insects are in a diapause state.

[0077] Figure 4a and Figure 4b Exemplary larvae separation devices 120, 220, 240 are shown, which differ only in the additional spray bars 400. The larvae separation devices 120, 220, 240 can in particular be configured as a sieve drum, preferably a wedge wire sieve. The larvae separation devices 120, 220, 240 are driven by a drive device 310, in particular set in a rotating state. Furthermore, a transport screw 300 is arranged within the drum. The larvae separation devices 120, 220, 240 have an inlet side and an outlet side (indicated by the arrows in Figure 4a and Figure 4b ), from which the insects are gently transported by the transport screw 300 mounted inside from the inlet side to the outlet side. The transport screw extends the entire length of the sieve drum, with a screw height of 5 mm to 300 mm, preferably 50 mm to 150 mm, particularly preferably 70 mm to 100 mm. The pitch is between 200 mm and 600 mm, preferably between 300 mm and 400 mm, particularly preferably between 330 mm and 375 mm. Thus, on the one hand, excess water or the desired proportion of water can be removed, and on the other hand, the insects can be cleaned without harming them or exerting great stress on them.

[0078] Furthermore, as Figure 4b indicated, spray bars 400 can be provided to spray water from a plurality of nozzles inside the larvae separation device 120, 220, 240 and / or outside the larvae separation device 120, 220, 240. The additional water supply inside the larvae separation device 120, 220, 240 can improve the washing process, while the water supply from outside can clean the screen drum. Instead of water, a liquid or a mixture of water and other liquids can be sprayed. Each spray bar 400 has 5 to 40 nozzles, preferably 8 to 28 nozzles for the spray bars 400 inside the screen drum and 5 to 40 nozzles for the spray bars 400 outside the screen drum. The water pressure can be between 2 and 10 bar, preferably between 3 and 7 bar.

[0079] Alternatively or additionally, cleaning elements, for example configured as brushes, can be provided outside the screen drum.

[0080] Preferably, the geometry of the larvae separation device 120, 220, 240 or the screen drum is adapted to the transport and cleaning of the insects. This can prevent injuries, stress and clogging of the screen and facilitate the cleaning of the screen from residues from the rearing process.

[0081] Preferably, the larvae separation device 120, 220, 240 comprises a screen drum having a circumferential surface 320 with a mesh width of the mesh of the circumferential surface of 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably of 1.3 mm to 2.0 mm. In particular, the mesh size of the circumferential surface 320 of the screen can be 20% to 70%, preferably 30% to 50% of the diameter of the larvae, wherein the diameter of the larvae is assumed to be 3 mm to 5 mm and the length of the larvae is 12 mm to 20 mm. Such a mesh represents a hole or opening of the circumferential surface of the screen drum. In Figure 4a particular, the circumferential surface 320 of the screen drum is provided with a mesh 330 having a mesh width of 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably of 1.3 mm to 2.0 mm. Figure 4a In particular, the circumferential surface 320 of the screen drum is provided with a mesh 330 having a mesh width of 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably of 1.3 mm to 2.0 mm. Figure 4b In particular, the circumferential surface 320 of the screen drum is provided with a mesh 330 having a mesh width of 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably of 1.3 mm to 2.0 mm.

[0082] For example, the inner diameter of the screen drum is 500 mm to 3000 mm, preferably 1000 mm to 1500 mm, preferably 1100 mm to 1250 mm. The screen drum is typically cylindrical, but can also be conical in one of the two directions.

[0083] The rotational speed can be 2 revolutions per minute to 60 revolutions per minute, preferably 5 revolutions per minute to 20 revolutions per minute, particularly preferably 10 revolutions per minute to 15 revolutions per minute.

[0084] The larvae separation device according to Figure 4a or Figure 4b may also be used with a larvae separation device according to Figure 3The conveying devices are combined for use in a system or cleaning apparatus according to Fig. 1 or Fig. 2.

[0085] The collecting device according to the above embodiments can also be used to mix insects or larvae with a liquid, for example water. Furthermore, the collecting device can also be used to store insects. Furthermore, the collecting device can also be used for temperature regulation or weighing.

[0086] As the degree of contamination of the water can be different if several separating devices are provided, several independent or interconnected water circuits can also be provided. This includes, inter alia, several filtering devices and / or several water tanks. The water can also be reused for the washing of the boxes in the cleaning apparatus.

[0087] If applicable and feasible, one or more conveying devices can be replaced by a slope. Thus, the insects or worms are not actively conveyed, but are sent to the next processing step under the influence of gravity.

[0088] Furthermore, a screw conveyor can be provided as a combined conveying and collecting device. This can have temperature regulation and a supply of clean water.

[0089] By cooling the water to below 15°C, preferably to 8°C to 15°C, the insects or worms can be anaesthetised during transport or cleaning. The use of water at ambient temperature, for example 15°C to 30°C, in particular 20°C to 26°C, can achieve a better cleaning result depending on the degree of contamination and is more energy-efficient as no cooling is required. However, this can also be associated with greater stress on the animals as they are not or only partially anaesthetised during processing. Furthermore, as the animals do not enter a state of diapause, their storage time is also shortened.

[0090] The present application has been described with reference to a cleaning apparatus together with a cleaning step, a cleaning apparatus together with a cleaning step and storage, a cleaning apparatus together with two cleaning steps, a cleaning apparatus together with two cleaning steps and storage, and a cleaning apparatus together with two cleaning steps and storage together with a proportion or concentration control in the storage tank. However, more than two washing or separating steps or further intermediate storage steps can be provided.

[0091] The present disclosure also includes a method for cleaning live insects or worms, preferably using the above-described cleaning apparatus.

[0092] Furthermore, the present disclosure also includes a conveying device for conveying live insects or worms, which gently pumps the insects or worms together with a carrier liquid without harming or stressing the insects.

[0093] Furthermore, a larvae separating device for separating live insects or worms from water and a corresponding method are also provided, whereby live insects can be gently transported and washed and the weight ratio of insects to water can be further adjusted.

[0094] According to the present disclosure, a washing apparatus for washing live insects or worms and a corresponding method for washing live insects or worms are provided, which ensure a gentle and pressureless treatment or processing of the live insects or worms. The liquid used for transporting and washing the insects or worms acts as a cushion, reducing the mechanical forces on the animals. It also prevents the animals from being crushed. Thus, the animals can be free of pressure during transport and a quality stabilization can be guaranteed. Therefore, the ratio of insects or worms to transport liquid is important for the process control. The transport liquid is purified and completely or mostly recirculated, forming a closed water cycle. This results in a significant reduction in water consumption. Furthermore, the cooled liquid metabolically inactivates the insects and puts them into a dormant state, enabling them to be stored in a storage tank. The system presented separates the rearing from the washing and storage, enabling both areas to be operated independently, increasing the flexibility of the apparatus.

[0095] Although the present application is illustrated and described in detail by means of the enclosed figures and the related description, this illustration and this description are to be considered as merely illustrative and not restrictive. It is understood that changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the following claims. In particular, the present application also includes embodiments having any combination of the features mentioned or shown above with respect to the different aspects and / or embodiments.

[0096] The present application also includes in the enclosed figures individual features, even if these features are shown in the figures in combination with other features and / or are not mentioned above.

[0097] Furthermore, the term "comprising" and its derivations do not exclude other elements or steps. Also, the term "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The functioning of the multiple features listed in the claims can be carried out by one unit. In particular, the terms "essentially", "about", "approximately" and the like in connection with a feature or a value are to be understood as precisely defining the feature or the value. All figures in the claims are to be understood as non-limiting.

[0098] LIST OF FIGURE REFERENCES

[0099]

Claims

1. A cleaning device for cleaning live insects or live worms, comprising: - A collection device for receiving insects or worms and mixing them with water to form a mixture; - A first conveying device for conveying the mixture from the collecting device; - A first larval separation device for separating insects or worms from water in a mixture conveyed by the first conveying device, wherein the separated water can be further used in insect equipment, at least partially recycled in the cleaning equipment; and - At least one additional larvae separation device for further separating insects or worms from the water in the conveyed mixture, wherein the separated water can be further used in insect equipment, at least partially recycled in the cleaning equipment, wherein the at least one additional larvae separation device is disposed after the first larvae separation device.

2. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, comprising: - At least one storage tank for storing large quantities of the mixture.

3. The cleaning equipment according to claim 2, comprising: - At least one additional collection device for receiving insects or worms and mixing them with water to form a mixture.

4. The cleaning equipment according to claim 3, The system includes at least one additional water supply device for re-rinsing the mixture. This water supply device is introduced into the circulation section and / or the additional collection device and / or the at least one storage tank after the first larvae separation device, and / or... in, At least one water tank is provided for storing water from the circulation section and discharging water into the circulation section, and / or The device includes at least one filtration device for filtering water separated from the first larvae separation device and / or the at least one additional larvae separation device.

5. The cleaning equipment according to claim 4, It is equipped with at least one temperature regulating device for regulating water temperature, and / or The cleaning equipment further includes a weighing device for determining the weight of the insect or worm.

6. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The live insects referred to are live insect larvae.

7. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The insect-carrying device is the cleaning device.

8. The cleaning equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one storage box is positioned after the first conveying device.

9. The cleaning equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The cleaning equipment further includes: - At least one additional conveying device for conveying the mixture.

10. The cleaning equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one additional conveying device is disposed between the first conveying device and the storage box or after the storage box.

11. The cleaning equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one additional collection device is positioned after the first larvae separation device.

12. The cleaning equipment according to claim 5, wherein, The at least one temperature regulating device is disposed between the at least one water tank and the collecting device or at the water tank.

13. The cleaning equipment according to claim 5, wherein, The weighing device is located before the collection device or integrated into the collection device.

14. A method for cleaning live insects or live worms using the cleaning equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising the following steps: - Feed live insects or live worms into the collection device; - First, mix live insects or worms with water until a predetermined mixture is formed; - The mixture is conveyed to the first larvae separation device via the first conveying device; - First, the mixture is separated in the first larvae separation device; - At least partially provide or recycle the separated water for further use in the insect device.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the cleaning equipment comprises at least one storage tank, and the method further comprises: - The mixture separated in the first larvae separation device is conveyed to the at least one storage tank by a second conveying device; - The mixture is stored in at least one of the storage containers.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein, The live insects referred to are live insect larvae.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein, The insect-carrying device is the cleaning device.

18. A conveying device for conveying live insects or live worms in a cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the conveying device is configured as a non-contact pump.

19. The conveying device according to claim 18, wherein, The live insects referred to are live insect larvae.

20. The conveying device according to claim 18, wherein, The non-contact pump is a peristaltic pump.

21. A larval separation device for separating live insects or live worms from water in a cleaning apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising: A sieve drum having a housing portion, wherein the sieve aperture width of the housing portion is 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm, and The sieve drum has a conveying screw for transporting insects or worms from the inlet end to the outlet end of the sieve drum.

22. The larvae separation device according to claim 21, The outer shell of the screen drum is a wedge-shaped wire mesh screen, and in, The inner diameter of the screen drum is 500 mm to 3000 mm, and / or The screw length of the transport screw extends the entire length of the screen drum, and / or The screw height of the transport screw is between 5 mm and 300 mm, and / or The pitch of the transport screw is 200 mm to 600 mm.

23. The larvae separation device according to claim 21 or 22, It is equipped with at least one spray bar for spraying liquid.

24. The larvae separation device according to claim 21 or 22, It is provided with at least one cleaning element for cleaning the outer shell portion of the screen drum.

25. The larvae separation device according to claim 21, wherein, The live insects referred to are live insect larvae.

26. The larvae separation device according to claim 21, wherein, The sieve width of the outer shell portion is 1.3 mm to 2.0 mm.

27. The larvae separation device according to claim 22, wherein, The inner diameter of the screen drum is 1000 mm to 1500 mm.

28. The larvae separation device according to claim 22, wherein, The inner diameter of the screen drum is 1100 mm to 1250 mm.

29. The larvae separation device according to claim 22, wherein, The height of the transport screw is 50 mm to 150 mm.

30. The larvae separation device according to claim 22, wherein, The screw height of the transport screw is 70 mm to 100 mm.

31. The larvae separation device according to claim 22, wherein, The pitch of the transport screw is 300 mm to 400 mm.

32. The larvae separation device according to claim 22, wherein, The pitch of the transport screw is 330 mm to 375 mm.

33. The larvae separation device according to claim 23, wherein, The at least one spray bar is used to spray liquid through multiple nozzles.

34. The larvae separation device according to claim 33, wherein, The at least one spray bar has 5 to 40 nozzles.

35. The larvae separation device according to claim 33, wherein, The at least one spray bar has 8 to 28 nozzles.

36. The larvae separation device according to claim 23, wherein, The at least one spray bar is disposed inside the screen-type drum, and / or At least one spray bar is positioned outside the sieve drum.

37. The larvae separation device according to claim 24, wherein, The at least one cleaning element is configured to clean the outer side of the screen drum, and / or The at least one cleaning element is configured as a brush element.

38. The larvae separation device according to claim 24, wherein, The at least one cleaning element extends the entire length of the sieve drum.

39. A method for separating live insects or live worms from water using the larval separation device according to any one of claims 21 to 38, comprising the following steps: - Feed the insects or worms with a mixture of water, wherein the temperature of the mixture is between 5°C and 30°C. - A rotary screen drum in which water is drained from the mixture and the insects or worms are transported to the outlet.

40. The method according to claim 39, wherein the larvae separation device is provided with at least one spray bar and at least one cleaning element. The sieve drum rotates at a speed of 2 to 60 revolutions per minute, and / or These live insects or worms are sprayed with water from at least one spray bar in the sieve drum during transport, and / or in, To clean the screen drum, during its rotation, the screen drum is sprayed with liquid through at least one spray bar, and / or In order to clean the screen drum, the screen drum comes into contact with the at least one cleaning element during the rotation of the screen drum.

41. The method according to claim 39, wherein, The live insects referred to are live insect larvae.

42. The method according to claim 39, wherein, The insect in question is an insect larva.

43. The method according to claim 39, wherein, The temperature of the mixture is 8°C to 15°C or 20°C to 26°C.

44. The method according to claim 39, wherein, The feeding is continuous.

45. The method according to claim 40, wherein, The rotation speed of the screen drum is 5 to 20 revolutions per minute.

46. ​​The method of claim 40, wherein, The rotation speed of the screen drum is 10 to 15 revolutions per minute.

47. The method of claim 40, wherein, These live insects or worms are sprayed with water from at least one spray bar located inside the sieve drum during transport.

48. The method of claim 40, wherein, The spraying is continuous and / or carried out at a water pressure of 2 to 10 bar.

49. The method according to claim 48, wherein, The spraying is carried out at a water pressure of 3 to 7 bar.

50. The method of claim 40, wherein, To clean the screen drum, liquid is sprayed onto the screen drum during its rotation via a spray bar located on the outside of the screen drum.

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