Separation and pivoting device and method of use thereof

Abstract

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

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a separation and pivoting device and a method thereof for use with a beehive having an upper hive box and a lower hive box. Background Technology

[0002] Modern beehives typically have a multi-layered configuration, which includes: a base plate with a bee entrance; frames that are configured to stack on top of the base plate and are filled with frames for bees and honey; and a top cap or outer cover that protects the hive from various factors.

[0003] Typically, the lowest box is called the "brood box" and is where the queen bee lays her eggs. In some cases, there may be more than one brood box. The upper boxes are called "honey supers" and are where honey is stored. The frames are usually suspended parallel to each other in the box and typically have a plastic or wax foundation on which the bees build beeswax combs.

[0004] It is generally considered good beekeeping practice to regularly inspect the hive to ensure it is healthy, disease-free, adequately fed, and not overcrowded, and to determine the queen bee's condition as well as the rate and nature of her reproductive activities. In some jurisdictions, this is a regulatory requirement.

[0005] However, a common problem in hive inspection is that it can be challenging (and potentially dangerous) for beekeepers to separate, lift, move, and support upper hives or honey supers when inspecting the lower hive boxes (including brood boxes).

[0006] This problem is partly due to the rectangular shape and size of the honeycomb boxes, which makes them difficult to lift and handle, and partly due to the weight of the boxes, especially the upper honeycomb box or honey super. In fact, the problem becomes particularly pronounced as the seasons change and the honey super is filled with honey that gradually increases in volume.

[0007] Lifting devices (such as cranes and hoists) exist and are commonly used in commercial beekeeping operations, where they are used to periodically inspect hundreds of hives. However, such cranes and hoists are expensive, difficult to operate, complex to use, and require large storage space. They are generally unsuitable for ordinary home beekeepers who may only keep one to five hives, and represent an unnecessary expense.

[0008] Another common problem during hive inspection is that separating the upper hive box from the lower hive box can be challenging. This is because the bees use propolis to "glu" the boxes together.

[0009] The conventional approach is to use a chisel or similar sharp-edged instrument to pry open and pry the upper hive box apart from the lower hive box. However, this process is particularly tedious, time-consuming, and potentially dangerous. In addition to the considerable force usually required to push the chisel or similar sharp-edged instrument between the hive boxes, the problem is further complicated by the weight of the upper hive box, the disturbing bees, and the fact that it often involves separating the lower hive box frames that are also “glued” to the upper hive box, while maintaining a gap of approximately 20 to 30 mm between the boxes to safely separate these glued frames before they are inadvertently pulled away from the lower hive box.

[0010] The inventors previously disclosed a separation and lifting device for a beehive using WO 2023 / 023751, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. However, the inventors have recognized that the disclosed device is not optimal and can be further enhanced.

[0011] It will be clearly understood that if prior art publications are cited in this document, such citation does not constitute an acknowledgment that such publications constitute common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country. Summary of the Invention

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention provide a separation and pivoting device and a method of using the same, which can at least partially solve one or more of the problems or defects mentioned above, or provide the public with a useful or commercial option.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, a separation and pivoting device is provided for use with a beehive for separating and pivoting an upper honeycomb box relative to a lower honeycomb box, the device comprising: At least one support frame member having a support end and an opposite honeycomb end, the honeycomb end being pivotally mounted to a lower honeycomb box at a first end of the beehive; At least one separating bracket, pivotally connected at or near the end of the hive to at least one support frame member, defining a pivot point and capable of being installed onto the upper hive body at a first end of the hive; and A support member, pivotally connected to a support end of at least one support frame member, is provided for supporting the at least one support frame member relative to a support surface. The support member is pivotable relative to the at least one support frame member between at least a retracted position and an operable position for engaging the support surface. In use, pivoting the support member to an operable position causes at least one support frame member to pivot upward relative to the lower honeycomb box at a first end of the beehive, and moves at least one separation bracket upward, at least partially separating the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box. The upper honeycomb box can pivot relative to the lower honeycomb box around a pivot point to access the contents of the lower honeycomb box.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the invention, a separation and pivoting device is provided for use with a beehive for separating and pivoting an upper honeycomb box relative to a lower honeycomb box, the device comprising: At least one support frame member having a support end and an opposite honeycomb end, the honeycomb end being pivotally mounted to a lower honeycomb box at a first end of the beehive; At least one separating bracket, pivotally connected at or near the end of the hive to at least one support frame member, defining a pivot point and capable of being installed onto the upper hive body at a first end of the hive; and A support member, pivotally connected to a support end of at least one support frame member, is provided for supporting the at least one support frame member relative to a support surface. The support member is pivotable relative to the at least one support frame member between at least a retracted position and an operable position for engaging the support surface. In use, at least one support frame pivots upward relative to the lower honeycomb box at the first end of the beehive to pivot the support to an operable position, while simultaneously moving at least one separation bracket upward and at least partially separating the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box. The upper honeycomb box can pivot relative to the lower honeycomb box around a pivot point to access the contents of the lower honeycomb box.

[0015] Preferably, at least one support frame is pivoted upward relative to the lower honeycomb housing to a substantially horizontal orientation.

[0016] Advantageously, the present invention provides an easy-to-use separation and pivoting device that can be readily and releasably fitted to a beehive to separate (i.e., “de-glued”) and lift the upper beehive relative to the lower beehive for hive inspection. Once assembled, the upper beehive can be separated and pivoted relatively easily using a separation bracket and a Type II lever formed by a support frame member. When the hive inspection is complete, the device allows the upper beehive to be easily lowered onto top of the lower beehive without realignment, and the device can then be easily removed from the beehive and fitted to another beehive or stored away.

[0017] As used herein, the term "beehive" can refer to any artificial structure used to house a honeycomb and includes a lower beehive box and at least one upper beehive box stacked on top of the lower beehive box.

[0018] The bottommost compartment of a beehive can be called the "brood box" and is where the queen bee lives and lays her eggs. In some instances, a beehive may include more than one brood box stacked on top of each other.

[0019] The honeycomb boxes stacked at the bottom or on top of the lower honeycomb boxes can be collectively referred to as "honey supers" and are where honey is stored.

[0020] Each honeycomb cell may include an open top and an opposite open bottom. The open top and bottom are interconnected by a pair of opposing end walls and a pair of opposing side walls extending therebetween. The opposing end walls and opposing side walls may define a generally rectangular profile shape.

[0021] The opposing end walls of stacked honeycomb boxes can define a first end and an opposing second end of the honeycomb box.

[0022] The opposite sidewalls of stacked honeycomb boxes can define the opposite sides of the beehive.

[0023] Each beehive can include multiple frames, which are typically suspended parallel to each other in a spaced-apart arrangement within the hive.

[0024] Bees can build beeswax combs on each frame where brood or honey is stored. In some embodiments, each frame may have a plastic or wax foundation defined thereon and configured to allow bees to build beeswax combs. As used herein, the term “brood” can include bee eggs, larvae, bee food, and pupae.

[0025] Accordingly, frames located in the brood box can typically contain bees, and frames located in the honey super can contain honey.

[0026] Beehives typically include a base plate that defines the entrance for bees, and lower hive boxes are stacked on top of the base plate.

[0027] Similarly, a beehive may include a top cap or outer cover, which is placed on top of the uppermost beehive body to protect the beehive from various factors.

[0028] In some embodiments, the beehive may further include a honeycomb support for supporting the beehive on top of a support surface.

[0029] As used herein, the term “supporting surface” can include the ground, a sealed surface (e.g., a concrete surface), or even the surface of another adjacent structure (e.g., the body of a beehive).

[0030] As indicated above, the device of the present invention is primarily intended for use with beehives having at least a lower honeycomb box and an upper honeycomb box stacked one on top of the other. Therefore, it will be convenient to describe the device with reference to this example application as a separation and pivoting device for beehives. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the device is capable of broader applications and is suitable for use with any stacked box arrangement.

[0031] The device can be configured to have a stowed position and an operable position, in which all components or portions thereof are folded to be stowed in a container, and in which all components or portions thereof are engaged with the beehive and / or support surface. The individual movements of each component or portion thereof between the stowed and operable positions will be described later. When in the stowed position, the device can be stored in any suitable container (e.g., a bag).

[0032] The device can be configured for use with beehives having any of two, three, or four honeycomb boxes stacked one on top of the other (preferably up to three honeycomb boxes). In such a scenario, the device can be used to separate and pivot any adjacent pairs of honeycomb boxes having a lower honeycomb box and an upper honeycomb box within the beehive.

[0033] The device of the present invention can have any suitable size, shape and construction, and can be formed from one or more of any suitable materials.

[0034] Typically, the device can be formed from one or more durable and robust materials, such as one or more plastics, wood, or metals, preferably one or more metals.

[0035] The device can have an integral construction, or it can be formed by two or more lifting components, usually the latter.

[0036] As indicated, the device is capable of raising and lowering the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box, preferably about a single range of movement defined by a single horizontal pivot axis, preferably about a pivot point. The range of movement about the single horizontal pivot axis can be about 20°, about 25°, about 30°, about 35°, about 40°, about 45°, about 50°, about 55°, about 60°, about 65°, about 70°, about 75°, about 80°, about 85°, about 90°, about 95°, about 100°, about 105°, about 110°, about 115°, about 120°, about 125°, about 130°, about 135°, about 140°, about 145°, about 150°, about 155°, about 160°, about 165°, about 170°, about 175°, or about 180°. Typically, the lifting device can provide the upper honeycomb box with a range of movement relative to the lower honeycomb box about a single horizontal pivot axis between approximately 45° and approximately 135°.

[0037] The pivot point can be located at or near the honeycomb end of at least one support frame, typically at the location where at least one separate support is pivotally connected to at least one support frame.

[0038] As indicated, the device includes a support member for supporting at least one support frame member (and the device) relative to a support surface, preferably for stabilizing the beehive when the upper beehive is separated from the lower beehive and / or pivoted to a raised position.

[0039] Typically, a support member may include an elongated structure. The support member may include a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally between the ends. The opposite ends may include a lower end and an opposite upper end.

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

[0041] The opposite upper end can be pivotally connected to the supporting end of at least one supporting frame member.

[0042] The elongated body can have a tubular or solid structure, with the former being preferred.

[0043] The elongated body may be defined by at least one sidewall, preferably by four sidewalls, such that the elongated body has a substantially rectangular outline shape, but a circular outline shape is also conceivable.

[0044] The support member may have a fixed height, such as that defined between opposite ends, or it may be an adjustable height, preferably the latter.

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

[0046] It is conceivable that the support could extend to a certain height so that the top honeycomb box in a stacked three-cell honeycomb box structure could pivot relative to the bottom honeycomb box.

[0047] In such an embodiment, the support may further include a retention mechanism for securing the support portion at a set height.

[0048] For example, in some such embodiments, the support portions can be locked relative to each other at a set height by a locking pin that extends through a commonly aligned hole defined in the overlapping sidewalls of these portions. The locking pin can be a conventional locking pin or a spring-loaded locking pin.

[0049] In other embodiments, the retention mechanism may include a first portion associated with one of the support portions; and a second portion that may be connected to the first portion and associated with other support portions in the support portion.

[0050] The retaining mechanism may include mating convex and concave portions connected together, such as threaded connections, interference fit connections, or friction fit connections.

[0051] In some such embodiments, a first portion of the retention mechanism associated with a sidewall of one of the support portions may include a convex form configured to insert into or connect with a concave form of a second portion of the retention mechanism associated with another support portion of the support portion.

[0052] In other embodiments, the retention mechanism may include: a collar fitted to a receiving end of a first support portion, the receiving end slidably receiving a second support portion; and a locking ring pivotally coupled to the collar, the second support portion extending through the locking ring, the locking ring being pivotable between a released position and a locked position, in which the second portion is axially slidable relative to the first support portion, and in which the locking ring applies an inward force toward at least one side of the second support portion to prevent axial movement of the second support portion relative to the first support portion.

[0053] In other embodiments, the retention mechanism may include a clamping device for clamping the support portions relative to each other, such as a quick-release clamp assembly. The clamping device may include a spring-loaded clamping lever having a clamping tongue defined at a first end, a lever handle defined at an opposite second end for moving the tongue between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a pivot point defined therebetween. The clamping device may include one or more springs for biasing the clamping tongue to the engaged position.

[0054] The clamping tongue can be configured to be received at least partially in one or more corresponding slots defined in the sidewall of the clamped support portion at a height (preferably in a spaced-apart arrangement) of the sidewall.

[0055] In some such embodiments, the pivot point may include a hole extending laterally through the clamping lever to receive a pivot pin passing through it, thereby pivotally connecting the clamping lever to a support portion. The hole may preferably be widened to reduce the shear force exerted on the pivot pin under load.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the support may include three telescopic support portions: an upper support portion; an intermediate support portion configured to telescopically receive the upper support portion; and a lower support portion configured to telescopically receive the intermediate support portion. A retaining mechanism may be associated with the upper ends of the intermediate support portion and the upper ends of the lower support portion to retain the telescopic portions relative to each other at a predetermined height.

[0057] In some embodiments, the support may further include a foot operatively associated with the lower end or the lowermost telescopic portion for supporting the support relative to a support surface. The foot may be formed of one or more rubber, plastic, or metal materials.

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

[0059] In other embodiments, the leg may include an elongated structure that is centrally mounted to the lower end of the support and extends substantially perpendicular to the support.

[0060] In such an embodiment, the support leg may include a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally between the ends. The opposite ends may extend perpendicular to either side of the lower end of the support.

[0061] The elongated body can have a tubular or solid structure, with the former being preferred.

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

[0063] The bottom wall or the wall facing the support surface of the elongated body can be configured to engage with the support surface.

[0064] In some embodiments, the foot may include a grip sleeve configured to at least partially enclose the elongated body and provide better grip when engaged with a support surface. The grip sleeve may be formed of one or more resiliently deformable materials, such as rubber, silicone, or soft plastic, preferably rubber.

[0065] In some such embodiments, the legs can be folded relative to the support member between a retracted position and an operable position, in which the legs fold against the support member and in the operable position, the legs extend perpendicularly to the support member to engage with the support surface. The legs can be folded in any suitable manner.

[0066] Typically, the legs can be connected to the lower end of the support via a pivoting or hinged arrangement at approximately the middle of the legs, thereby allowing the legs to be folded relative to the support between a retracted position and an operable position.

[0067] In some such embodiments, the pivoting connection or hinged arrangement may include one or more biasing members or mechanisms for biasing the leg toward an operable position. For example, in some such embodiments, movement of the leg to the operable position may be accomplished by the biasing force of one or more biasing members or mechanisms.

[0068] One or more biasing components or mechanisms may include one or more springs, such as helical springs.

[0069] In some embodiments, the pivoting connection or hinged arrangement may further include a retention mechanism or arrangement for securing the leg in an operable position. Any suitable retention mechanism or arrangement may be used.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the leg can be pivotally coupled to an end of the support. The leg may include a pair of opposing lugs extending upward from opposite sidewalls of the leg, each lug having an elongated opening defined therein for receiving a pivot pin operatively associated with the lower end of the support. The elongated opening may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the leg, thereby allowing the pivot pin to travel laterally within the elongated opening and allowing the lug to be at least partially received in the lower end of the support and to hold the leg in an operable position relative to the support when under load.

[0071] In some embodiments, the device may include more than one support member. For example, the device may include two, three, or even four support members. For example, in one such embodiment, the device may include two support members that are angled toward each other.

[0072] In other embodiments, the support can be forked from the upper end to the lower end.

[0073] As indicated, the device includes at least one support frame member extending between the support and a first end of the beehive for connecting the support to the beehive.

[0074] The at least one supporting frame member can have any suitable size, shape, and construction.

[0075] Typically, the at least one support frame member may include a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally (preferably in a linear orientation) between the ends.

[0076] The opposite ends may include a support end pivotally connected to a support member, and an opposite honeycomb end pivotally mounted at the first end of the beehive to the lower honeycomb housing.

[0077] The elongated body can have a tubular or solid structure, with the former being preferred.

[0078] The elongated body may be defined by at least one wall extending between opposite ends, preferably by four walls, such that the elongated body has a substantially rectangular profile, but a circular profile is also conceivable. The four walls may include a top wall, an opposing bottom wall, and opposing side walls, including inner side walls and opposing outer side walls.

[0079] Those skilled in the art will understand that at least one support frame member extends forward into the beehive to space the support from the first end, thereby stabilizing the beehive at least partially relative to the support surface, particularly when the upper beehive body is pivoted relative to the lower beehive body to a raised or open position.

[0080] In addition to stabilizing the upper honeycomb box when pivoting relative to the lower honeycomb box, at least one support frame member can be used as a mechanical lever when pivoting upward relative to the lower honeycomb box to drive at least one separation bracket to move, thereby separating the upper honeycomb box from the lower honeycomb box before pivoting the upper honeycomb box toward at least one support frame member.

[0081] The supporting frame members may have lengths of approximately 400 mm, approximately 450 mm, approximately 500 mm, approximately 550 mm, approximately 600 mm, approximately 650 mm, approximately 700 mm, approximately 750 mm, approximately 800 mm, approximately 850 mm, approximately 900 mm, approximately 950 mm, approximately 1,000 mm, approximately 1,050 mm, approximately 1,100 mm, approximately 1,150 mm, approximately 1,200 mm, approximately 1,250 mm, approximately 1,300 mm, approximately 1,350 mm, approximately 1,400 mm, approximately 1,450 mm, or approximately 1,500 mm or greater. Typically, at least one supporting frame member may have a length ranging from approximately 650 mm to approximately 850 mm.

[0082] In some embodiments, at least one support frame may have an adjustable length, for example, by means of a telescopic arrangement.

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

[0084] As indicated, the support end of at least one support frame member and the upper end of the support member can be pivotally connected together, such that the support member can pivot relative to at least one support frame between a retracted position and an operable position for engaging with a support surface, in which the support member can fold against at least one support frame member.

[0085] The supporting end of at least one supporting frame member and the upper end of the supporting member can be pivotally connected together in any suitable manner.

[0086] Typically, the upper end of the support member and the support end of at least one support frame member can be pinned together by a pivot pin that is received through a co-aligned orifice.

[0087] The support member can pivot about a horizontal pivot axis defined by a pivot pin within any suitable range of motion between the retracted and operable positions.

[0088] For example, in some embodiments, after at least one support frame member is pivotally mounted to the first end of the lower honeycomb housing, if the support member pivots downward only relative to the at least one support frame member, the range of movement about the horizontal pivot axis can be about 80°, about 85°, about 90°, about 95°, or about 100°.

[0089] Conversely, in other embodiments, when at least one support frame member is pivotally mounted to the first end of the lower honeycomb housing, the support member can pivot from a retracted position to an operable position within a range of angular movement about a horizontal pivot axis. In such embodiments, the support member can pivot upwards and to an operable position within a range of movement of approximately 260°, approximately 265°, approximately 270°, approximately 275°, or approximately 280°.

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

[0091] As indicated, the opposite honeycomb end of at least one support frame member can be pivotally mounted to the lower honeycomb housing, preferably releasably mounted to the lower honeycomb housing.

[0092] In some embodiments, the honeycomb end may include a plate portion configured to abut against the end or side of the lower honeycomb housing, the plate portion defining one or more openings, each opening configured to receive a mechanical fastener passing through it to secure the plate and the honeycomb end of at least one support frame member to the end or side of the lower honeycomb housing.

[0093] In other embodiments, the support frame member and the lower honeycomb housing can be connected by a connecting mechanism or a portion thereof. The connecting mechanism or its multiple portions may or may not be integrally formed with each of the support frame member and the lower honeycomb housing.

[0094] In some such embodiments, the connecting mechanism may include a first portion associated with a honeycomb end of at least one support frame member; and a second portion that may be connected to the first portion and associated with an end or side of the lower honeycomb housing.

[0095] The connecting mechanism may include mating convex and concave portions that are joined together (e.g., by threaded connection, interference fit, friction fit, or bayonet connection).

[0096] In some such embodiments, the first portion of the connecting mechanism (associated with or forming part of the honeycomb end of at least one support frame member) may include a convex forming portion configured to be inserted into or connected to a concave forming portion of the connecting mechanism (associated with or forming part of the second portion of the lower honeycomb housing at or near the first end or side).

[0097] Conversely, in other such embodiments, the first portion of the connecting mechanism may include a recessed portion configured to at least partially receive or engage with a convex portion of the second portion of the connecting mechanism.

[0098] In other embodiments, the end wall and / or adjacent side wall of the lower honeycomb housing may include one or more protrusions projecting outward therefrom, and the honeycomb end of at least one support frame may include a mounting bracket having one or more corresponding shaped openings defined thereon, and these shaped openings are configured to fit onto the one or more protrusions and connect at least one support frame to the lower honeycomb housing.

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

[0100] In other preferred embodiments, the mounting bracket may have a separate construction and may be pivotally connected to the honeycomb end of at least one support frame member via a pivoting coupling. The mounting bracket may be pivotable between a stowed position and an operable position, in which the mounting bracket folds against the support frame member, and in which the operable position is used to engage with a first end of the lower honeycomb housing.

[0101] Each protrusion can have any suitable size, shape, and construction.

[0102] Typically, each protrusion may include a shank and an enlarged head or other type of retaining end located at the distal end of the shank. The protrusion may include or define a neck portion immediately adjacent to the enlarged head or other type of retaining end.

[0103] Similarly, the shaped opening can have any suitable shape to at least receive the enlarged head or other type of retaining end that passes through it and engage around the neck portion.

[0104] For example, in some embodiments, the shaped opening may have an inverted keyway shape. The shaped opening may include: an enlarged lower portion for receiving an enlarged head or other type of retaining end therethrough; and a narrower upper portion configured to slide around and be supported on top of the neck portion of the protrusion.

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

[0106] In some embodiments, a mounting bracket associated with the honeycomb end of at least one support frame member may be configured to assemble at least partially around a corner defined between an end wall and an adjacent side wall of the lower honeycomb housing. In such embodiments, one or more protrusions may project outward from the end wall and / or side wall.

[0107] In other embodiments, a mounting bracket associated with the honeycomb end of at least one supporting frame member may be configured to abut against and be coupled to a first end wall of the lower honeycomb housing (preferably on or near one side of the end wall). In such embodiments, one or more protrusions may project outward from the end wall.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the mounting bracket may have a substantially L-shaped profile, configured to assemble at least partially around a corner, and may include end-wall abutment portions and side-wall abutment portions orthogonally angled relative to the end-wall abutment portions. The mounting bracket may extend at least partially longitudinally along the height of the lower honeycomb housing. One or more shaped openings may preferably be defined in the end-wall abutment portions of the mounting bracket.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, one or more protrusions may each take the form of a mechanical fastener having an end, an enlarged head, and a shank extending therebetween. The shank may include a threaded portion located at or near the end, thereby receiving threadedly in the end wall of the lower honeycomb housing.

[0110] In some embodiments, the pivoting connection between the mounting bracket and at least one support frame member may include one or more biasing members or mechanisms for biasing the mounting bracket toward a retracted position. For example, in some such embodiments, movement of the mounting bracket to an operable position may be accomplished against biasing forces from one or more biasing members or mechanisms.

[0111] One or more biasing components or mechanisms may include one or more springs, such as helical springs.

[0112] In some embodiments, the device may include more than one support frame member that extends from the support and is pivotally mounted to the lower honeycomb housing at a first end.

[0113] For example, in a preferred embodiment, the device may include a pair of support frame members that are pivotally connected to a support and can be connected at a first end to a corner of the lower honeycomb housing.

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

[0115] In some such embodiments, the pair of support frame members may further be able to pivot about a vertical axis near the honeycomb end so that the honeycomb end portion of the support frame member can extend flush with the side of the beehive when in an operable position.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment, each support frame member may include a support end portion, a honeycomb end portion, and an intermediate portion, the intermediate portion being hingedly connected to each of the support end portion and the honeycomb end portion via at least one hinge or a portion thereof. Each portion may be pivotable about a vertical axis relative to the axes of other adjacent portions and about the axes of each of the at least one hinge, between a retracted position and an operable position.

[0117] At least one hinge can have any suitable size, shape, and form. For example, a hinge can be a barrel hinge, a pivot hinge, a flag hinge, or a movable hinge.

[0118] In such an embodiment, the at least one hinge may include: a first hinge member defined on one of a first portion and an adjacent portion; and a second hinge member hingeably connected to the first hinge member and defined on the other of the first portion and the adjacent portion.

[0119] In some such embodiments, the first hinge member may include a hook or clamp defining a shaped groove, and the second hinge member may include a pivot pin configured to be received at least partially in the shaped groove to hingedly connect the support end portion to the remainder of the support frame member.

[0120] In other such embodiments, the first hinge member may include a bushing having a central orifice, and the second hinge member may include a pivot pin configured to extend at least partially through the central orifice to hingedly connect adjacent portions together.

[0121] In some embodiments, each hinge may further include one or more pivot stops on both sides of the at least one hinge to prevent excessive pivoting of one part relative to another. The one or more pivot stops may be configured such that the portions of the pair of support frame members can pivot away from each other from a retracted position to an operable position in which the frame members are spaced apart from each other at the correct distance to accommodate a standard beehive received between the honeycomb ends.

[0122] As indicated, the device includes at least one separation bracket pivotally connected to at least one support frame at or near the honeycomb end of at least one support frame member, and is capable of being mounted at a first end of the beehive to the upper honeycomb box to separate the upper honeycomb box from the lower honeycomb box and define a pivot point for pivoting the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box.

[0123] The separation stent can have any suitable size, shape and construction, and can be formed from one or more suitable materials (typically one or more metallic materials).

[0124] Typically, and similar to the lower honeycomb housing, the end walls and / or adjacent side walls of the upper honeycomb housing may include one or more protrusions projecting outward therefrom, and at least one separation bracket may include one or more corresponding shaped openings defined thereon, and these shaped openings are configured to fit onto the one or more protrusions and connect to the upper honeycomb housing.

[0125] At least one detachable support may be pivotally connected near the honeycomb end of at least one support frame member, typically between about 100 mm and about 250 mm from the honeycomb end. The detachable support may be pivotally connected in any suitable manner, typically via a pivot pin extending through the support into the sidewall (preferably the inner sidewall) of the support frame member. The axis of the pivot pin preferably defines the pivot point.

[0126] The detachable support can pivot between a stowed position and an operable position, in which the support folds rearward toward the support end and against at least one support frame member, and in the operable position for engagement with the first end of the upper honeycomb housing.

[0127] In some embodiments, the separation bracket may be configured to assemble at least partially around a corner defined between an end wall and an adjacent side wall of the upper honeycomb housing. In such embodiments, one or more protrusions may project outward from the end wall and / or side wall.

[0128] In other embodiments, the separation bracket may be configured to abut against and be attached to a first end wall of the honeycomb housing (preferably on or near one side of the end wall). In such embodiments, one or more protrusions may project outward from the end wall.

[0129] In a preferred embodiment, the separation support may include: a joint portion having a substantially L-shaped profile, the joint portion being configured to assemble at least partially around a corner, the joint portion including an end wall abutment portion and a side wall abutment portion; and a leg portion extending between the joint portion and at least one support frame member and pivotally connected to the support frame member.

[0130] In some embodiments, the disengagement support may include a handle opening defined between the engagement portion and the leg portion, the handle opening for receiving a user's hand or a portion thereof through which to assist in moving the disengagement support from a retracted position to an operable position. Additionally, the handle opening may assist in general manipulation of the device, such as when retrieving the device from a retracted position.

[0131] In some such embodiments, the handle opening may include a plastic liner that extends around the inner periphery of the opening to protect the hand or a portion thereof from being cut by the edge of the support.

[0132] The plastic liner may protrude at least laterally to the outside of the handle opening and may include one or more stepped portions configured to act as temporary stops when the disengaged bracket is in or partially in the retracted position.

[0133] For example, the plastic liner may include a first stepped portion configured to temporarily hold the disengaged bracket in a partially retracted position where the handle opening is easily accessible.

[0134] The plastic liner may include a second stepped portion that protrudes further outward than the first stepped portion to prevent the separation bracket from excessively pivoting to the retracted position while the device is still mounted to the lower honeycomb housing and receiving loads on top of at least one support frame member and the separation bracket.

[0135] Finally, the plastic liner may include a third stepped portion that projects further outward than the second stepped portion to prevent excessive pivoting of the separation bracket relative to at least one support frame member, for example, when the device is in the retracted position and receiving a load on top of the device.

[0136] In some embodiments, at least one detachable support may further include a coating applied at least partially to the support to enhance grip when manipulated by a user, preferably at least to the joint portion of the support. The coating may be formed of one or more elastically deformable materials, such as rubber, silicone, or soft plastic, preferably rubber.

[0137] The joint may extend longitudinally, at least partially, along the height of the upper honeycomb box.

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

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

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

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

[0142] As indicated, pivoting at least one support frame member to a substantially horizontal orientation to pivot the support member to an operable position can cause at least one separation bracket to move upward and at least partially separate the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box.

[0143] In this use, at least one support frame member can be used as a type 2 lever to move the separation bracket upward, thereby separating the upper honeycomb box from the lower honeycomb box.

[0144] At least one separating bracket can at least partially separate the upper honeycomb box from the lower honeycomb box by any suitable distance, as measured at the first end between the opposite edges of the upper and lower honeycomb boxes. For example, the separating mechanism can separate the upper and lower honeycomb boxes by a distance of approximately 5 mm, approximately 10 mm, approximately 15 mm, approximately 20 mm, approximately 25 mm, approximately 30 mm, approximately 35 mm, approximately 40 mm, approximately 45 mm, approximately 50 mm, approximately 55 mm, approximately 60 mm, approximately 65 mm, approximately 70 mm, approximately 75 mm, approximately 80 mm, approximately 85 mm, approximately 90 mm, approximately 95 mm, or even approximately 100 mm, as measured at the first end between the opposite edges. Preferably, the separating bracket can at least partially separate the upper and lower honeycomb boxes by a distance of approximately 20 mm to approximately 50 mm, as measured at the first end between the opposite edges.

[0145] In some embodiments, at least one separation bracket and a mounting bracket for engaging with a first end of the lower honeycomb housing may be mechanically associated such that movement of at least one separation bracket to an operable position additionally drives the mounting bracket to pivot at least partially toward the operable position relative to at least one support frame member.

[0146] At least one separate bracket and mounting bracket can be mechanically associated in any suitable manner.

[0147] For example, in some such embodiments, at least one separation bracket may further include a beak-shaped portion extending beyond the pivot point in a direction opposite to the leg portion, the beak-shaped portion being configured to act on the mounting bracket and drive the mounting bracket to pivot at least partially toward the operable position when the separation bracket pivots at least partially toward the operable position (overcoming bias forces, if present).

[0148] In use, it is conceivable that the user can remove the device from the retracted position through the handle opening defined in the separation bracket, thereby pivoting the separation bracket at least partially toward the operable position, and further causing the beak-shaped portion of the separation bracket to act on the mounting bracket and pivot the mounting bracket at least partially toward the operable position.

[0149] In some embodiments, the separation bracket and the mounting bracket may further include a retention mechanism for temporarily retaining the mounting bracket in a partially operable position.

[0150] The retention mechanism can have any suitable size, shape and form.

[0151] For example, in some such embodiments, the retention mechanism may include an elongated slot defined in the mounting bracket and configured to receive at least a portion therein when the beak acts on and pivots against the mounting bracket.

[0152] Specifically, when the mounting bracket is rotated by the beak-shaped portion, the elongated slot aligns with a portion of the beak-shaped portion and at least partially receives that portion of the beak-shaped portion therein, so as to temporarily fix the mounting bracket in a partially operable position.

[0153] In other such embodiments, the retention mechanism may include a ridge that protrudes from the mounting bracket and is configured to abut against at least a portion of the beak after the beak initially pivots the mounting bracket at least partially toward an operable position.

[0154] Specifically, when the mounting bracket is rotated by the beak-shaped portion, the ridge-shaped portion engages with a portion of the beak-shaped portion to temporarily fix the mounting bracket in a partially operable position.

[0155] Advantageously, temporarily securing the mounting bracket in at least a partially operable position helps the user install the mounting bracket to the first end of the lower honeycomb housing by eliminating the need to manually secure the mounting bracket in an operable position for engagement.

[0156] In use, mounting the mounting bracket to the lower honeycomb housing can disengage the retention mechanism. For example, in some such embodiments, mounting the mounting bracket to the lower honeycomb housing can move the ridge away from its partial alignment with the beak, allowing at least one disengaging bracket to pivot fully toward the operable position.

[0157] In some embodiments, the device may further include at least one handle member configured to be releasably mounted to the upper honeycomb box and extending outward from the opposite second end of the honeycomb box to assist in pivoting the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box about a pivot point.

[0158] The at least one handle component can have any suitable size, shape, and construction.

[0159] Typically, the at least one handle member may include a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally (preferably in a linear orientation) between the ends.

[0160] The opposite end may include a mounting end and an opposite outer end, the mounting end being configured to be mounted at a second end of the beehive to the end or side of the upper beehive body, and the opposite outer end defining a handle portion.

[0161] The elongated body can have a tubular or solid structure.

[0162] The elongated body may be defined by at least one sidewall extending between opposite ends, preferably by four sidewalls, such that the elongated body has a substantially rectangular profile. These four sidewalls may include an upper wall, an opposing lower wall, and opposing sidewalls.

[0163] The handle component may have a length of approximately 400 mm, approximately 450 mm, approximately 500 mm, approximately 550 mm, approximately 600 mm, approximately 650 mm, approximately 700 mm, approximately 750 mm, approximately 800 mm, approximately 850 mm, approximately 900 mm, approximately 950 mm, approximately 1,000 mm, approximately 1,050 mm, approximately 1,100 mm, approximately 1,150 mm, or approximately 1,200 mm or greater. Typically, at least one handle component may have a length ranging from approximately 600 mm to approximately 1,200 mm.

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

[0165] At least one handle component's handle portion can be configured to allow a user to apply an upward or downward force, causing the handle component and the upper honeycomb housing to pivot between a raised position and a lowered position, respectively.

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

[0167] The gripping part can have any suitable size, shape and construction, and can be formed from one or more suitable materials.

[0168] For example, in some such embodiments, the grip portion may include a smooth and shaped handle portion, or may include a handle portion having one or more contour portions defined therein, thereby facilitating the user's grip on the handle portion.

[0169] In other such embodiments, the grip may include a rubber or plastic grip that is at least partially fitted onto the outer end and the handle portion.

[0170] The mounting end of the handle component can be directly or indirectly mounted to the upper honeycomb housing, preferably indirectly mounted to the upper honeycomb housing via the handle component bracket.

[0171] The handle component bracket can have any suitable size, shape, and construction, and can be releasably connected to the upper honeycomb housing in any suitable manner. Similarly, the handle component bracket can be operatively associated with the handle component in any suitable condition.

[0172] Typically, the handle component support can be a corner support, which is attached to the inner wall of the support and configured to assemble at least partially around the corner of the upper honeycomb housing at the second end.

[0173] Similar to mounting brackets and dismount brackets, the handle component bracket may include one or more shaped openings defined therein, and the one or more shaped openings are configured to mate at or near a second end with one or more protrusions projecting from the upper honeycomb housing to connect the handle component to the upper honeycomb housing.

[0174] As previously described, each protrusion may include a shank and an enlarged head or other type of retaining end located at the distal end of the shank. The protrusion may include or define a neck portion immediately adjacent to the enlarged head or other type of retaining end.

[0175] Similarly, the shaped opening can have any suitable shape to at least receive an enlarged head or other type of retaining end passing through it and engage around the neck portion. Typically, the shaped opening can have a keyhole shape. For example, the shaped opening may include: an enlarged upper portion for receiving an enlarged head or other type of retaining end passing through it; and a narrower lower portion configured to receive and slide around the neck portion of the protrusion.

[0176] The handle component support may have a substantially L-shaped profile, configured to assemble at least partially around a corner of the upper honeycomb housing at a second end, and may include an end wall abutment portion and a side wall abutment portion orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutment portion. The handle component support may extend longitudinally at least partially along the height of the upper honeycomb housing. One or more shaped openings may preferably be defined in the end wall abutment portion of the support for engagement with one or more protrusions projecting from the side of the end wall.

[0177] In some embodiments, the handle component bracket may be pivotally connected to the inner wall of the handle component at or near the mounting end via a threaded fastener. The handle component bracket may pivot about the threaded fastener between a retracted position and an operable position. When fitted to a corner of the upper honeycomb housing, the threaded fastener may be tightened to secure the handle component bracket to the protrusion and to the handle component.

[0178] In some embodiments, the device may include a pair of handle members as described above for fitting to both sides of the upper honeycomb at the second end.

[0179] The container for storing the device when it is in the folded position may preferably further accommodate at least one handle component.

[0180] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket, separation bracket, and / or handle component bracket may further include one or more cutouts defined therein for receiving any mechanical fasteners protruding from the upper or lower honeycomb housing, rather than one or more protrusions for mounting purposes.

[0181] In some embodiments, at least one support frame member may further include one or more scrapers extending between the sidewall of the frame member and the mounting bracket and / or disengagement bracket to prevent or at least minimize damage to the frame member when the bracket is repeatedly moved to the retracted position. The one or more scrapers may preferably be formed of one or more metallic materials. The one or more scrapers may preferably be mounted to the inner sidewall of the pair of support frame members.

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

[0183] One or more support members may be formed of a resiliently deformable material, such as rubber or soft plastic.

[0184] In some embodiments, the support of the device may further include a platform that extends from the upper end of the support to support the two or more upper honeycomb boxes when the support is in the operable position and when the two or more upper honeycomb boxes are pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb box.

[0185] The support can have any suitable size, shape and construction, and can be formed from one or more suitable materials.

[0186] The support can be integral with or separate from the support member, preferably separate.

[0187] Typically, a support may include a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally (preferably in a linear orientation) between the ends.

[0188] The opposite end may include an upper end and an opposite lower end, the upper end being configured to support two or more upper honeycomb cells thereon, the opposite lower end being connected to or extending from the upper end of the support.

[0189] The elongated body can have a tubular or solid structure, with the former being preferred.

[0190] The elongated body may be defined by at least one sidewall extending between opposite ends.

[0191] The support can have a length of approximately 50 mm to approximately 150 mm.

[0192] In some embodiments, the support may have an adjustable height, such as by means of telescopic or sliding arrangement.

[0193] In some embodiments, the support can be hingedly connected to the upper end or a portion of the support via at least one hinge or a portion thereof, and the support can pivot between a concealed position when the support is in a retracted position and an upright position when the support is in an operable position.

[0194] Specifically, when in the retracted position, the support can pivot toward the support platform, causing the support platform to fold against the support and be hidden.

[0195] Conversely, when the support pivots to an operable position about the radius of motion, the support can pivot away from the support, causing the support to stand upright and extend from the upper end of the support.

[0196] According to a third aspect of the invention, a method is provided for assembling a separation and pivoting device relative to a beehive to separate and pivot the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box of the beehive, the method comprising: At least one supporting frame member is attached to the lower honeycomb box body at the first end of the beehive; Install at least one separation bracket, which is pivotally connected to at least one support frame member at or near the end of the hive and defines a pivot point for installation onto the upper hive body at the first end of the hive. A support member, pivotally connected at a support end opposite to the honeycomb end to at least one support frame member, pivots from at least a retracted position to an operable position for engaging with a support surface to support the support frame member relative to the support surface. The pivoting of the support to the operable position causes at least one support frame to pivot upward relative to the lower honeycomb box at a first end of the beehive, and causes at least one separation bracket to move upward, and at least partially separates the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box, thereby facilitating the pivoting of the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box about the pivot point.

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

[0198] Installation may include aligning the shaped openings of the mounting bracket and the separating bracket with one or more protrusions protruding from the first end of the lower honeycomb housing and the first end of the upper honeycomb housing, respectively.

[0199] The installation may further include pressing the keyhole opening onto the enlarged head of the protrusion, so that the narrow portion can then slide around the neck of the protrusion.

[0200] Pivoting involves lifting at least one support frame relative to the lower honeycomb housing until it has a substantially horizontal orientation, and then pivoting the support to an operable position.

[0201] As indicated, pivoting of the support may include pivoting the support from a retracted position to an operable position within a large angular movement.

[0202] The lifting of at least one support frame member preferably causes at least one separation bracket to separate the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box.

[0203] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for separating and pivoting the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box of a beehive using an assembled separation and pivoting device according to the first or second aspect, the method comprising: The support is pivoted to an operable position such that at least one support frame member pivots upward relative to the lower honeycomb box at a first end of the beehive, and at least one separating bracket moves upward, at least partially separating the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box; and The upper honeycomb box is pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb box around the pivot point to the raised position.

[0204] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for aligning and lowering the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box of a beehive using an assembled separation and pivoting device according to the first or second aspect, the method comprising: The upper honeycomb box is pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb box around the pivot point to the lower position; and The support is pivoted to the retracted position so that at least one support frame pivots downward relative to the lower honeycomb box at the first end of the beehive, and at least one separation bracket moves downward and lowers the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box.

[0205] Typically, the downward pivoting of at least one support frame can occur simultaneously with the pivoting of the support member to the retracted position.

[0206] In a preferred embodiment, pivoting can be controlled by the user gripping the legs of the support as handles and using the legs to gradually lower at least one support frame relative to the lower honeycomb housing in a controlled manner.

[0207] Advantageously, using the legs as handles allows the user to lower the upper hive relative to the lower hive in a controlled manner, freeing up one hand to use a brush or smoker to brush the bees away or to use smoke to drive them away from the upper edge of the lower hive box.

[0208] In addition, the controlled downward pivoting of at least one support frame and the simultaneous downward movement of the separating support advantageously ensure that the upper honeycomb box returns to its initial position aligned on top of the lower honeycomb box without requiring any alignment.

[0209] Any feature described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other features described herein in any combination within the scope of this invention.

[0210] Any reference to prior art in this specification is not, and should not be construed as, an acknowledgment or any form of implication that it is part of the general knowledge of the prior art. Attached Figure Description

[0211] Preferred features, embodiments, and variations of the present invention will become apparent from the following specific embodiments, which provide sufficient information for those skilled in the art to practice the invention. These specific embodiments should not be construed as limiting the scope of the foregoing in any way. The specific embodiments will be referenced to the following figures: Figure 1 This is a top perspective view of the separation and pivoting device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 It is shown as follows Figure 1 A photograph of the device assembled in a beehive; Figure 3 It is shown as follows Figure 1 and Figure 2 A photograph of the device's detachable support assembled into the upper honeycomb box of the beehive; Figure 4 It is shown as follows Figures 1 to 3 A photograph of the device shown, in which the supporting frame members pivot upwards via the legs of associated supports to separate the upper and lower honeycomb boxes of the beehive. Figure 5 It is shown as follows Figures 1 to 4 A photograph of the device shown, showing the support member engaging with the support surface and the upper honeycomb box being separated from the lower honeycomb box by a separation bracket. Figure 6 Is it like this? Figures 1 to 5 The photograph shows the device in which the upper honeycomb box is pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb box to a raised position and rests on top of the device's support frame members (note that, for illustrative purposes, the two upper honeycomb boxes are shown glued together with tape). Figure 7 It is in the folded, stowed position and stored in the storage bag, such as Figures 1 to 6 A photograph of the device shown; Figure 8 Is it like this? Figures 1 to 7Side view of the support member of the device shown; Figure 9 It is shown as follows Figure 8 A photograph of an enlarged view of the retaining mechanism of the support member shown; Figure 10A and Figure 10B These show the collapsed position and the operable position respectively. Figures 1 to 9 A photograph of the support legs of the device shown; Figure 11A and Figure 11B It is shown as follows Figures 1 to 9 , Figure 10A and Figure 10B A photograph of the mechanical connection between the mounting bracket and the disassembly bracket of the device shown. Figure 12 It is shown as follows Figures 1 to 9 , Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11A and Figure 11B A photograph of the handle component of the device shown, which is fitted to the opposite end of the honeycomb to assist in pivoting the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box; Figure 13 It is shown as follows Figures 1 to 9 , Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 12 A photograph of the support platform shown is provided for supporting the stacked upper honeycomb cells when the upper honeycomb cells are pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb cells to a raised position; and Figure 14 It is shown as follows Figures 1 to 9 , Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11A , Figure 11B , Figure 12 and Figure 13 A photograph of the mounting bracket shown, which can be releasably mounted to the first end of the lower honeycomb body of the beehive. Detailed Implementation

[0212] Figures 1 to 9 , Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 11A , Figure 11B as well as Figures 12 to 14 A separation and pivoting device (100) and portions thereof are shown according to an embodiment of the invention for separating and pivoting the upper honeycomb box (910) of a beehive (900) relative to the lower honeycomb box (920).

[0213] refer to Figure 1 The separation and pivoting device (100) includes a pair of support frame members (110), each support frame member having a support end (112) and an opposite honeycomb end (114), and is pivotally mounted at a first end of the beehive (900; not shown) to the lower honeycomb box (920; not shown) via a mounting bracket (120).

[0214] Each support frame member (110) includes a separation bracket (130) that is pivotally connected near the end of the hive (114), defines a pivot point (800), and is capable of being mounted to the upper hive body (910; not shown) at the first end of the hive (900; not shown).

[0215] The device (100) further includes a support member (140) pivotally coupled to the support ends (112) of the pair of support frame members (110) for supporting the frame members (110) relative to a support surface. The support member (140) is pivotable relative to the support frame members (110) between a retracted position (not shown) and an operable position (shown) for engaging with the support surface.

[0216] In use, when the support member (140) is pivoted to the operable position, the support frame member (110) is pivoted upward to a substantially horizontal orientation, causing the separation bracket (130) to move upward simultaneously and partially separating the upper honeycomb box (910; not shown) from the lower honeycomb box (920).

[0217] The upper honeycomb box (910; not shown) can then pivot about a pivot point (800) relative to the lower honeycomb box (920; not shown) to access the contents of the lower honeycomb box (920; not shown).

[0218] Now refer to Figures 2 to 6 Briefly describe the use of the device (100).

[0219] refer to Figure 2 Orient the device (100) relative to the end of the beehive (900) so that the mounting bracket (120) can be releasably mounted to the first end of the lower honeycomb box (920) of the beehive (900).

[0220] refer to Figure 3 Once the mounting bracket (120) is installed, the separating bracket (130) is pivoted forward to engage with a similar first end of the upper honeycomb box (910) of the beehive (900). Like the mounting bracket (120), the separating bracket (130) is releasably mounted to the first end of the upper honeycomb box (910).

[0221] refer to Figure 4Once the mounting bracket (120) and the separation bracket (130) are installed, the support (140) is rotated from the retracted position to the operable position around the angular range of motion.

[0222] The support (140) pivots upward and to an operable position within a range of about 260°, about 265°, about 270°, about 275° or about 280°.

[0223] refer to Figure 5 When the support member (140) is rotated to the operable position, the support frame member (110) is pivoted upward, thereby moving the separation bracket (130) upward and partially separating the upper honeycomb box (910) from the lower honeycomb box (920).

[0224] refer to Figure 6 Once separated, the upper housing (910) can be pivoted in a controlled manner about a pivot point (800) defined by the pivotal connection between the separation bracket (130) and the support frame member (110) relative to the lower honeycomb housing (920) to a raised position. Note that in this figure, the device (100) is shown as pivoting the two upper honeycomb housings (910) relative to the lower honeycomb housing (920).

[0225] As shown in the figure, the device (100) is capable of providing the upper honeycomb box (910) with respect to the lower honeycomb box (920) about a pivot point (800) between about 75° and about 85°.

[0226] Advantageously, the device (100) also enables the upper honeycomb box (910) to be lowered relative to the lower honeycomb box (920) in a controlled manner without realignment.

[0227] Brief Reference Figure 7 The device (100) is configured to have a stowed position and an operable position, in which all parts or portions thereof are folded to be stowed in a container (e.g., a bag (710) as shown), and in the operable position, all parts or portions thereof are in a position engaging with a beehive (900; not shown) and / or a support surface. The individual movements of each part or component between the stowed position and the operable position will be described later.

[0228] refer to Figure 8 The device (100) includes a support (140) for supporting the support frame members (110; not shown) relative to the support surface and for stabilizing the hive (900; not shown) when the upper hive (910; not shown) is pivoted relative to the lower hive (920; not shown) to a raised position.

[0229] The support (140) includes a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally between the ends. The opposite ends include a lower end (142) and an opposite upper end (144).

[0230] As indicated, the upper end (144) is pivotally connected to the support end (112; not shown) of the support frame member (110; not shown).

[0231] The elongated body is formed by three supporting parts, which are arranged in a telescopic manner so that the height is adjustable.

[0232] Specifically, the elongated body includes an upper support portion (145); an intermediate support portion (146) configured to retractably receive the upper support portion (145); and a lower support portion (147) configured to retractably receive the intermediate support portion (146). A retaining mechanism is associated with the upper ends of the intermediate and lower support portions (146, 147) for retaining the retractable portions relative to each other at a set height.

[0233] refer to Figure 9 The retaining mechanism includes a clamping device (150) for clamping the support portions relative to each other. The clamping device (150) includes a spring-loaded clamping lever (152) having a clamping tongue (154) defined at a first end, a lever handle (156) defined at the opposite second end for moving the tongue between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and a pivot point (158) defined therebetween. The clamping device (150) includes a spring (159) below the lever handle (156) for biasing the clamping device (150) to the engaged position.

[0234] The clamping tongue (154) is configured to be received at least partially in the corresponding slots (155), which are spaced apart along the height of the sidewall of the clamped support portion.

[0235] refer to Figure 10A and Figure 10B The support (140) includes a leg (160) pivotally connected to the lower end (142) of the support (140) for supporting the support (140) relative to a support surface.

[0236] The leg (160) includes an elongated structure that is centrally mounted to the lower end (142) of the support (140) and extends substantially perpendicular to the support (140).

[0237] The leg (160) includes a pair of opposite ends (162) and an elongated body (164) extending longitudinally between the ends. The opposite ends (162) extend perpendicular to either side of the lower end (142) of the support (140).

[0238] The elongated body (164) includes a bottom wall and multiple opposing side walls extending upward from the bottom wall.

[0239] The lower surface of the bottom wall is configured to engage with the supporting surface.

[0240] The leg (160) is foldable relative to the support (140) between a retracted position and an operable position, in which the leg folds against the support (140), as... Figure 10A As shown, in this operable position, the leg (160) extends perpendicularly to the support (140) to engage with the support surface, as... Figure 10B As shown.

[0241] refer to Figure 10A The leg (160) includes a pair of opposing lugs (166) extending upward from the sidewall of the leg (160). Each lug (166) has an elongated opening defined therein for receiving a pivot pin passing through it and operatively associated with the lower end (142) of the support (140).

[0242] refer to Figure 10B The elongated opening extends perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the leg (160), thereby allowing the pivot pin to travel laterally inside the elongated opening and allowing the lug (166) to be received at least partially in the lower end (142) of the support (140) and to hold the leg (160) in an operable position relative to the support (140) when under load.

[0243] Return to reference Figure 10A The pivoting connection includes a spring (168) for biasing the foot (160) toward the operable position.

[0244] Return to reference Figure 5 Each of the pair of support frame members (110) includes a support end (112), an opposite honeycomb end (114), and an elongated hinged body extending therebetween.

[0245] The elongated body has a tubular structure defined by four walls, including a top wall, an opposing bottom wall, and opposing side walls, including an inner side wall and an opposing outer side wall.

[0246] In addition to stabilizing the upper honeycomb box (910) when pivoting relative to the lower honeycomb box (920), the support frame member (110) acts as a mechanical lever when pivoting upward relative to the lower honeycomb box (920) to drive the movement of the separation bracket (130), thereby separating the upper honeycomb box (910) from the lower honeycomb box (920).

[0247] The support end (112) of the support frame member (110) is pivotally connected to the upper end (144) of the support member (140) by a pivot pin that is received through a co-aligned orifice.

[0248] The support member can pivot about a horizontal pivot axis defined by a pivot pin within any suitable range of motion between the retracted and operable positions.

[0249] The opposite honeycomb end (114) of the support frame member (110) can be pivotally and releasably mounted to the lower honeycomb box (920) via the mounting bracket (120).

[0250] Brief Reference Figure 1 Each of the mounting brackets (120) has a substantially L-shaped profile and is configured to assemble at least partially around the corner of the honeycomb (900; not shown), and may include an end wall abutment portion (122) and a side wall abutment portion (124) that is orthogonally angled relative to the end wall abutment portion (122).

[0251] In use, the mounting bracket (120) extends longitudinally at least partially along the height of the lower honeycomb housing (920; not shown).

[0252] refer to Figure 14 The end wall abutment portion (122) of the support (120) includes a shaped opening (126) having an inverted key hole shape, which is configured to fit onto a corresponding mounting point (170; i.e., a protrusion), which includes an enlarged head (172), a shank threadedly received within the end wall of the honeycomb body (910, 920), and a neck portion adjacent to the enlarged head (172).

[0253] In use, the shaped opening (126) includes: an enlarged lower portion for receiving an enlarged head (172) passing through it; and a narrower upper portion configured to slide around the neck portion of the protrusion (170) and be supported on top of the top portion.

[0254] Return to reference Figure 1The mounting bracket (120) is pivotally connected to the honeycomb end (114) of each support frame member (110) and is pivotable between a stowed position and an operable position in which the mounting bracket folds against the support frame member (110) and in the operable position for engaging with the first end of the lower honeycomb housing (920; not shown).

[0255] Each mounting bracket (120) includes a biasing member or mechanism that biases the mounting bracket (120) to a retracted position.

[0256] As shown in the figure, each support frame member (110) includes an elongated hinged body extending therebetween. Specifically, each support frame member (110) includes a support end portion (112A), a honeycomb end portion (114A), and an intermediate portion (115), which is hingedly connected to each of the support end portion (112A) and the honeycomb end portion (114A) by at least one hinge or a portion thereof.

[0257] Each part (112A, 114A, 115) is pivotable relative to other adjacent parts about a vertical axis between a retracted position and an operable position, in which the support frame members (110) are pressed together, and in the operable position, the support frame members (110) are pivoted away from each other so that the honeycomb end portion (114A) of the support frame members (110) can extend flush with the side of the beehive (900; not shown).

[0258] Brief Reference Figure 5 The device (100) includes a separation bracket (130) pivotally connected near the honeycomb end (114) of each support frame member (110) for mounting to the upper honeycomb box (910) at a first end of the beehive (900), and for separating the upper honeycomb box (910) from the lower honeycomb box (920), and for defining a pivot point (800) for pivoting the upper honeycomb box (910) relative to the lower honeycomb box (920), as... Figure 6 As shown.

[0259] refer to Figure 1 The separation bracket (130) is pivotally connected between approximately 100 mm and approximately 250 mm from the honeycomb end (114) of each support frame member (110).

[0260] The separation bracket (130) is pivotally connected via a pivot pin extending through the bracket (130) into the inner wall of each support frame member (110). The axis of the pivot pin defines the pivot point (800).

[0261] The separation support (130) includes: a joint portion (132) having a substantially L-shaped profile, the joint portion being configured to assemble at least partially around a corner of an upper honeycomb housing (910; not shown), the joint portion including an end wall abutment portion (134) and a side wall abutment portion (136); and a leg portion (138) extending between the joint portion (132) and a support frame member (110) and pivotally connected to the support frame member (110).

[0262] refer to Figure 11A Each detachable support (130) includes a handle opening (180) defined between the engagement portion (132) and the leg portion (138), the handle opening being for receiving a user’s hand or a portion thereof through which to assist in moving the detachable support (130) from a retracted position to an operable position or in using a general operating device (100).

[0263] As shown, the handle opening (180) includes a plastic liner (182) extending around the inner periphery of the opening (180) to protect the hand or a portion thereof from cuts by the edge of the support. The plastic liner (182) has defined stepped portions that allow the disassembled support (130) to be positioned correctly for packaging and retrieval. The stepped portions engage with the support frame member (110).

[0264] refer to Figure 3 And similar to the mounting bracket (120), the end wall abutment portion (134) includes a shaped opening (139) having a keyhole shape, which is configured to fit onto a corresponding mounting point (170), as previously described.

[0265] In use, the shaped opening (139) includes: an enlarged upper portion for receiving an enlarged head (172) passing therethrough; and a narrower lower portion configured to slide around and receive the neck of the protrusion, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown.

[0266] like Figure 5 As shown, pivoting the support frame member (110) to a substantially horizontal orientation to pivot the support member (140) to an operable position will cause the separation bracket (130) to move upward and separate the upper honeycomb box (910) relative to the lower honeycomb box (920).

[0267] In this use, the support frame member (110) is used as a type 2 lever to move the separation bracket (130) upward, thereby separating the upper honeycomb box (910) from the lower honeycomb box (920).

[0268] Refer again Figure 11A The separation bracket (130) and mounting bracket (120) on each support frame member (110) are mechanically associated such that movement of the separation bracket (130) to the operable position additionally drives the mounting bracket (120) to pivot at least partially toward the operable position relative to the support frame member (110).

[0269] Specifically and refer to Figure 11B The separation bracket (130) further includes a beak (210) extending beyond the pivot point (800) in the opposite direction to the leg portion (138), the beak (210) being configured to act on the mounting bracket (120) and drive the mounting bracket (120) to pivot partially toward the operable position (overcoming the bias force) when the separation bracket (130) pivots at least partially toward the operable position.

[0270] Return to reference Figure 11A In use, it is conceivable that the user will take the device (100) from the retracted position through the handle opening (180) defined in the separation bracket (130), causing the separation bracket (130) to pivot at least partially toward the operable position, and further causing the beak-shaped portion (210) of the separation bracket (130) to act on the mounting bracket (120) and causing the mounting bracket (120) to pivot at least partially toward the operable position.

[0271] The separation bracket (130) and the mounting bracket (130) further include a retention mechanism for temporarily retaining the mounting bracket (120) in a partially operable position.

[0272] refer to Figure 11B The retention mechanism includes an elongated slot (212) defined in the mounting bracket (120) and configured to receive at least a portion therein when the beak (210) acts on the mounting bracket (120) and pivots against the mounting bracket.

[0273] Specifically, when the mounting bracket (120) is rotated by the beak-like portion (210), the elongated slot (212) aligns with a portion of the beak-like portion (210) and at least partially receives that portion therein, thereby temporarily securing the mounting bracket (120) in a partially operable position. Advantageously, temporarily holding the mounting bracket (120) in a partially operable position helps the user to install the mounting bracket (120) to the first end of the lower honeycomb housing (920) by eliminating the need to manually secure the mounting bracket (120) in an operable position for engagement.

[0274] refer to Figure 12The device (100) further includes at least one handle member (230) configured to be releasably mounted to the upper honeycomb box (910) and extend outward from the opposite second end of the honeycomb box (900) to assist in pivoting the upper honeycomb box (910) relative to the lower honeycomb box (920) about a pivot point (800; not shown).

[0275] The handle component (230) includes a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally between the ends.

[0276] The opposite end includes a mounting end (232) and an opposite outer end (234), the mounting end being configured to be mounted to the upper honeycomb body (910) at the second end of the beehive (900), and the opposite outer end defining a handle portion.

[0277] The elongated body is defined by four side walls, giving it a generally rectangular outline. These four side walls include a top wall, an opposing bottom wall, and opposing side walls.

[0278] The handle portion is configured to allow the user to apply an upward or downward force to pivot the handle member (230) and the upper honeycomb housing (910) between the raised position and the lowered position, respectively.

[0279] The handle portion includes a grip (236) for assisting the user in gripping and holding the handle portion.

[0280] The mounting end (232) includes a handle component bracket (240) for releasable mounting to the end of the upper honeycomb housing (910).

[0281] The handle component bracket (240) is a corner bracket that is connected to the inner wall of the handle component (230) and is configured to partially assemble around the corner of the upper honeycomb housing (910) at the second end.

[0282] Similar to the mounting bracket (120; not shown) and the separation bracket (130; not shown), the handle component bracket (240) includes a shaped opening defined therein, which has a keyhole shape and is configured to fit onto a mounting point (170; not shown), as previously described, which protrudes from the upper honeycomb housing (910) at a second end.

[0283] The handle component bracket (240) is pivotally connected to the inner wall of the handle component (230) at or near the mounting end (232) by a threaded fastener. The handle component bracket (240) is pivotable about the threaded fastener between a retracted position and an operable position. As shown, when assembled to the corner of the upper honeycomb housing (910), the threaded fastener is tightened to secure the handle component bracket (240) to the mounting point (170) and the handle component (230).

[0284] refer to Figure 13 The support (140) of the device (100) further includes a platform (250) extending from the upper end (144) of the support (140) for supporting the two or more upper honeycomb boxes (910; not shown) when the support (140) is in the operable position and when the two or more upper honeycomb boxes (920; not shown) are pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb box (920; not shown).

[0285] The support (250) includes a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally in a linear orientation therebetween.

[0286] The opposite ends include an upper end and an opposite lower end, the upper end being configured to support two or more upper honeycomb boxes (910; not shown) thereon, the opposite lower end being connected to or extending from the upper end (144) of the support (140).

[0287] The support (250) has a length of about 50 mm to about 150 mm.

[0288] The support (250) is hingedly connected to the upper end (144) or a portion thereof of the support (140) via at least one hinge or a portion thereof, and the support (250) is pivotable between a retracted position when the support (140) is in a stowed position and an upright position when the support (140) is in an operable position.

[0289] Specifically, when in the retracted position, the support (140) pivots toward the support (250), causing the support (250) to fold and hide against the support (140).

[0290] Conversely, when the support (140) pivots about the angular range of motion to the operable position, the support (140) pivots away from the support (250), causing the support (250) to stand upright and extend from the upper end (144) of the support (140).

[0291] In this specification and claims (if any), the word “comprising” and its derivatives (including “comprises” and “comprise”) encompass each of the stated integers, but do not exclude the inclusion of one or more additional integers.

[0292] Throughout this specification, references to "one embodiment" or "embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Therefore, throughout this specification, the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" appearing in various places does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, particular features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0293] As specified, the invention has been described in language that is largely specific to structural or methodological features. It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown or described, as the means described herein include preferred forms for carrying out the invention. Therefore, any form or modification of the invention is claimed within the appropriate scope of the appended claims (if any) as properly interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A separation and pivoting device for use with a beehive, for separating and pivoting an upper beehive body relative to a lower beehive body, said device comprising: At least one support frame member having a support end and an opposite honeycomb end, the honeycomb end being pivotally mountable to the lower honeycomb box at a first end of the beehive; At least one detachable bracket, which is pivotally connected to the at least one support frame member at or near the end of the hive, defines a pivot point and is capable of being installed at the first end of the hive into the upper hive body; as well as A support member, pivotally connected to a support end of the at least one support frame member, is provided for supporting the at least one support frame member relative to the support surface. The support member is pivotable relative to the at least one support frame member between at least a retracted position and an operable position for engaging the support surface. In use, the pivoting of the support member to the operable position causes the at least one support frame member to pivot upward relative to the lower honeycomb box at the first end of the beehive, and moves the at least one separating bracket upward, at least partially separating the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box. The upper honeycomb box is pivotable relative to the lower honeycomb box around the pivot point to access the contents of the lower honeycomb box.

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

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The mounting bracket is pivotable between a retracted position and an operable position, in which the mounting bracket folds against the support frame member, and in the operable position it is used to mount to the first end of the lower honeycomb housing.

4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein, The lower honeycomb housing includes one or more protrusions projecting outward from the lower honeycomb housing, and the mounting bracket includes one or more shaped openings or inclined slots configured to fit onto the one or more protrusions and mount the mounting bracket to the lower honeycomb housing.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The mounting bracket is configured to be assembled at least partially around a corner defined between the end wall and the adjacent side wall of the lower honeycomb housing.

6. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The device includes a pair of support frame members pivotally connected to the support member, and each support frame member has a mounting bracket for mounting to the lower honeycomb housing at the first end.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The at least one separation bracket includes one or more shaped openings defined thereon, and the one or more shaped openings are configured to fit onto one or more corresponding protrusions projecting from the upper honeycomb housing for mounting the at least one separation bracket to the upper honeycomb housing.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The at least one separate bracket is pivotally connected to the at least one support frame member via a pivot pin, wherein the axis of the pivot pin defines the pivot point.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The at least one detachable support is pivotable between a stowed position and an operable position, in which the support folds rearward toward the support member and against the at least one support frame member, and in which the operable position is used to engage with the first end of the upper honeycomb housing.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The at least one separation bracket is configured to be assembled at least partially around a corner defined between the end wall and the adjacent side wall of the upper honeycomb housing.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, In use, when the at least one support frame member pivots upward to pivot the support to the operable position, the at least one support frame acts as a type 2 lever to move the at least one separation bracket upward, thereby separating the upper honeycomb box from the lower honeycomb box.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein, The at least one detachable bracket and the mounting bracket are mechanically associated such that movement of the at least one detachable bracket to the operable position additionally drives the mounting bracket to pivot relative to the at least one support frame member toward a partially operable position.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein, The at least one separation bracket and the mounting bracket further include a retention mechanism for temporarily retaining the mounting bracket in the partially operable position.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The support includes a pair of opposite ends and an elongated body extending longitudinally between the ends, the opposite ends including a lower end and an opposite upper end.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein, The height of the support member can be adjusted by a telescopic arrangement. The support member includes at least two telescopic support parts that can slide relative to each other between a retracted position and an extended position, thereby adjusting the height of the support member.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, The support further includes a retention mechanism for securing the support portion at a set height.

17. The apparatus of any one of claims 14 to 16, the apparatus further comprising a support extending from an upper end of the support to support the two or more upper honeycomb boxes when the support is in the operable position and when the two or more upper honeycomb boxes are pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb box.

18. A method for separating and pivoting an upper honeycomb box relative to a lower honeycomb box of a beehive, the method comprising: At least one honeycomb end of a supporting frame member is attached to the lower honeycomb box body at the first end of the beehive. At least one separation bracket is installed, which is pivotally connected to the at least one support frame member at or near the end of the honeycomb and defines a pivot point at the first end of the beehive where it is installed to the upper honeycomb body. as well as A support member, pivotally connected to the at least one support frame member at a support end opposite to the honeycomb end, pivots from at least a retracted position to an operable position for engaging a support surface to support the support frame member relative to the support surface. The pivoting of the support member to the operable position causes the at least one support frame to pivot upward relative to the lower honeycomb box at a first end of the beehive, and causes the at least one separation bracket to move upward, and at least partially separates the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box, thereby facilitating the pivoting of the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box about the pivot point.

19. A method for separating and pivoting an upper honeycomb box relative to a lower honeycomb box using an assembled separation and pivoting device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, the method comprising: The support is pivoted to the operable position so that the at least one support frame member pivots upward relative to the lower honeycomb box at the first end of the beehive, and the at least one separation bracket moves upward and at least partially separates the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box. as well as The upper honeycomb housing is pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb housing around the pivot point to the raised position.

20. A method for aligning and lowering the upper honeycomb box relative to the lower honeycomb box of a beehive using an assembled separation and pivoting device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, the method comprising: The upper honeycomb box is pivoted relative to the lower honeycomb box around the pivot point to the lower position; as well as The support is pivoted to the retracted position so that the at least one support frame pivots downward relative to the lower honeycomb box at the first end of the beehive, and the at least one separation bracket moves downward and the upper honeycomb box is lowered relative to the lower honeycomb box.

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