Insect breeding system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an insect breeding system for the industrial automated breeding of insects, comprising: a rack channel block; a loading machine; and an unloading machine; wherein the loading machine pushes stacks of breeding containers that are to be loaded from its load-receiving means in a (rack) longitudinal direction into a rack storage channel; meanwhile stacks that have already been loaded are pushed further along within the corresponding rack storage channel. Each of the stacks is formed by a multiplicity of breeding containers which are stacked vertically one on top of the other and which can each be filled with insect larvae.

Description

[0001] Insect rearing system

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an insect rearing system for the industrial, automated rearing of insects. Furthermore, the disclosure relates to a method for operating a shelf channel block configured for the industrial, automated rearing of insects.

[0003] Document US 2018 / 0070566 A1 discloses a farm for the industrial breeding of insects. The farm comprises a storage area and an action or handling area, which are connected via a conveyor system (interface). The insects are stored in containers arranged in stacks one above the other in the storage area. Several of the stacks are grouped on a pallet to be stored in a high-bay warehouse that includes corresponding pallet racks. The high-bay warehouse represents the storage area. Conventional storage and retrieval machines are used to store and retrieve the pallets. The storage and retrieval machines are arranged in (shelf) aisles defined between the shelves in a transverse direction Z of the shelves. The shelves are arranged back-to-back. The storage and retrieval machines store and retrieve the pallets in the transverse direction Z into single- or double-deep shelf compartments.Retrieved pallets are transported in a longitudinal direction X of the racks within the aisle to the front of the racks, where they are transferred by the stacker cranes to the conveyor system. The throughput (number of storage and retrieval operations per unit of time) is low, particularly because the stacker cranes have to travel long distances within the aisles. The feeding process takes a long time because the containers have to travel long distances between the storage area and the handling area, which reduces efficiency. Coordinating the rearing and storage times is complex because storage must be carried out according to the FIFO principle. The stacker cranes must sometimes perform numerous transfers in order to arrange the stacks in a FIFO-optimized manner – and especially sorted chronologically – within the storage area.

[0004] Document WO 2014 / 171829 A1 also discloses a method and system for the industrial rearing of insects. There, too, the insects are stored in containers arranged in stacks. However, no pallets are used for storing and transporting the container stacks. The stacks are stored in a floor storage area. Here, too, the same, if not even worse, problems arise as described above.

[0005] US 2018 / 0070566 Al and WO 2014 / 171829 Al therefore differ primarily in their storage systems (shelf storage vs. floor storage) and in their storage type (with or without load carriers).

[0006] DE 10 2020 004 957 A1 relates to a process for obtaining insect meal

[0007] In general, various conventional storage systems and storage types are known.

[0008] In conventional static rack storage, the storage units are not moved during their storage period. They are stored statically. In dynamic rack storage, the storage units (in the rack) are moved between storage and retrieval processes. In other words, this means that the storage units are moved while they are in the rack and thus stored there. They are therefore stored dynamically. This can occur in the rack either through passive self-movement of the storage units (by gravity) or through active displacement of the storage units (by means of a powered conveyor system).

[0009] In a passive flow rack (warehouse), the storage units move continuously from one storage side to the opposite retrieval side in inclined rack channels due to gravity. The multi-depth storage channels are arranged side by side and one above the other, resulting in a compact, block-like rack structure. Where possible, the dimensions (especially the height and width) of the rack channels are adapted to the dimensions of the respective storage units. Figure 9 illustrates a conventional flow rack warehouse.

[0010] In a satellite rack warehouse (not shown), the (mostly palletized) storage units are also stored multiple deep in the horizontally aligned rack channels. Access to the storage channels is via a rail-guided channel conveyor, which can be moved (transversely) along one front side of the channels, which form one end of the racking, using a storage and retrieval machine. The storage and retrieval machine transports (instead of a telescopic fork) the autonomous channel vehicle, the so-called satellite, which can move (lengthwise) into and out of the storage channels and has a very low overall height. The satellite vehicle can load and unload the storage units independently. Each storage channel has two laterally arranged profile rails in its lower section, which have two horizontal parallel surfaces, with the upper surface serving as a storage or standing surface for the storage units and the lower surface serving as the running surface for the satellite vehicle.The storage units are driven under by the satellite vehicle (individually), lifted, moved and then lowered again in order to change the positions of the storage units within the respective channel.

[0011] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to eliminate the above-mentioned disadvantages and in particular to provide an improved system and an improved method for raising insects.

[0012] This object is achieved by an insect rearing system for the industrial automated rearing of insects, comprising: a shelf channel block formed from a plurality of shelf storage channels arranged in a height direction and in a transverse direction of the shelf channel block, preferably without spacing, wherein each of the shelf storage channels is configured to receive a plurality of rearing container stacks (essentially without spacing) one behind the other in a longitudinal direction;a storage machine, which is preferably a stationary lifter and / or a transversely movable storage and retrieval machine, which is arranged at a first longitudinal end of the shelf channel block and which has a, preferably exclusively, height-adjustable load-handling means (LAM), which comprises: at least one stack-pushing unit, preferably mounted displaceably in the transverse direction, which is configured to push a stack to be stored from the LAM into one of the shelf storage channels and, in the meantime, to push stacks already stored further in the longitudinal direction within the corresponding storage channel;and a retrieval machine, which is preferably a stationary lifter and / or a transversely movable storage and retrieval machine, which is arranged at a second opposite longitudinal end of the shelf channel block and which has a, preferably exclusively, height-adjustable LAM, which comprises: at least one stack pulling unit, preferably mounted displaceably in the transverse direction, which is configured to pull at least one stack to be retrieved in the longitudinal direction from a corresponding shelf storage channel onto the LAM;Each stack is formed by a plurality of vertically stacked (identical) rearing containers, each of which can be filled with insect larvae. The system proposed here has a high storage density. The containers are stored in stacks stacked on top of each other. The channels are optimally sized to fit the stacks. The rack consists entirely of storage space. There are no empty spaces. Spaces for active conveyors (conveyor systems or satellite vehicles) are not required. The available storage space is used optimally.

[0013] A large number of stacks are buffered longitudinally, one behind the other, within the same rack storage channel. The channel is long enough to buffer more stacks than usual. However, active conveying within the channel is not required; the respective stack pushing unit is designed to exert high thrust forces during storage, thus pushing the stacks already stored further within the channel. The channels do not require active drives to move the stacks already stored within the channels. The further movement is caused solely by the storage machine.

[0014] Preferably, the height and / or width of each channel is selected such that the stacks cannot tip, tilt, or stand upright while buffered in the channels, even during a storage process. The channel itself then represents a corresponding hold-down device. The containers in the stacks do not accidentally separate from each other. The stacks remain stable.

[0015] The storage machine(s) and the retrieval machine(s) are decoupled from each other. This means that the storage machine can store items, while there is no need for a retrieval machine at the opposite end of the channel into which the storage is being carried out to receive a stack pushed through (as long as the corresponding channel is not completely full). Conversely, the retrieval machine can also retrieve a stack that has already been stored independently of the storage machine. The retrieval machine is designed to automatically remove a stack to be retrieved from the corresponding channel, in particular with its stack pulling unit. The retrieval machine does not rely on the storage machine simultaneously pushing a stack to be stored (into the same channel) during a retrieval process. Preferably, the last storage location of each rack channel is monitored for occupancy, e.g.with a light barrier, a weight sensor, a camera, or similar. This ensures that no stack is placed in a completely full channel, which could lead to the last stack falling out and / or other channel damage.

[0016] The storage channels and containers are designed to absorb the sometimes very high shear forces without the shelf and / or stacks collapsing.

[0017] Since the storage channels are designed without drives, control is also simplified. Only the storage machine and / or the retrieval machine need to be controlled.

[0018] The system is highly scalable, allowing any number of additional shelving blocks (and the corresponding number of storage and retrieval machines) to be added, for example, in the transverse direction (z). Expansion in the vertical direction (y) is also easily possible. Additional shelving blocks, which can define a shelving level, can be built on top of existing shelving levels. This does not change the material flow.

[0019] Preferably, the LAM of the storage machine has as many stacking and pushing units, which are arranged in particular in a stationary manner, as the shelf channel block has shelf storage channels next to one another in the transverse direction.

[0020] If several push units are arranged side by side in the transverse direction Z on a LAM platform, storage can be carried out in several storage channels simultaneously. This increases the storage capacity (number of stacks stored per unit of time). Furthermore, stacks located at the same depth of the respective channel on a level all have the same dwell time – and thus the same mast duration. With a single action (storage or retrieval) using just one (single) machine, several stacks – and thus a multitude of containers – can be stored or retrieved simultaneously, all with the same "time stamp." Throughput increases because a single machine movement handles a multitude of stacks, particularly without the use of load carriers such as pallets.The elimination of load carriers (pallets) further reduces handling time, as depalletizing and palletizing can be completely eliminated. Depalletizing and palletizing stations are no longer required, further reducing costs while shortening cycle times.

[0021] If the push units can be controlled individually, the simultaneous storage process of several stacks can be carried out with a slight time offset in order to avoid an accumulation of force peaks, which would only place unnecessary strain on the racking - and also on the storage machine(s).

[0022] In particular, the LAM of the storage machine further comprises: at least one conveyor which extends in the transverse direction of the rack channel block and which conveys the stack(s) to be stored in the transverse direction in front of the rack storage channel(s) in which the respective stack is to be stored.

[0023] The conveyor can be mounted on the platform of the LAM. The conveyor represents a material flow extension of an external conveyor system. The conveyor enables automated feeding of stacks to be stored, especially directly in front of the channels into which the stacks are to be stored. The conveyor can align the stacks to be stored relative to their respective channels.

[0024] The conveyor can be modular in design. The corresponding conveyor modules can be individually controlled. The conveyor can be used to (fine-)position the stacks to be stored relative to the corresponding channels. The conveyors can also serve as alignment units.

[0025] Preferably, the LAM of the storage machine further comprises: at least one stack alignment unit which is configured to align the stack to be stored in the transverse direction relative to the respective shelf storage channel in which the stack is to be stored.

[0026] The alignment unit can be implemented in the form of the conveyor mentioned above.

[0027] The alignment unit can be implemented as a stop element that can be positioned vertically retractably between rollers of a roller conveyor (or a module). The alignment unit can be implemented as a camera system that provides image data, which is converted into corresponding control signals for the conveyor modules using image processing.

[0028] The alignment device generally ensures that the stacks to be stored – especially in the transverse direction Z – are precisely positioned in front of their respective channels before the storage process begins. This prevents mechanical blockages between the stack and the rack during storage. Furthermore, damage to the rack and stacks can be prevented. Storage is gentle on the stacks. The stacks preferably do not come into contact with the channels during storage. This increases the service life of the containers in the stack. This also increases the service life of the channel itself. Furthermore, less force is required for insertion, as there are no blockages.

[0029] Preferably, the LAM of the storage machine further comprises at least one support element which is configured to transmit shear reaction forces, which are caused by the at least one stacking pushing unit during insertion, from the LAM into the rack channel block (and vice versa).

[0030] The storage machine and the channel block can be connected (temporarily or permanently) during a storage process, in which the stacks to be stored are pushed into the channel, to better distribute the forces acting on them. The storage machine can therefore be constructed lighter and less stable. The same applies to the rack frame of the channel block.

[0031] In addition, the support element prevents any misalignment between the storage machine and the rack channel block during storage. The support element provides a mechanical safeguard that prevents misalignment.

[0032] In particular, the LAM of the storage machine comprises a plurality of stack pushing units arranged side by side in the transverse direction, while the LAM of the retrieval machine can comprise a corresponding plurality of stack pulling units arranged side by side in the transverse direction. The juxtaposition of a plurality of pushing units and pulling units – corresponding to the number of adjacent storage channels – increases the performance during storage and retrieval of the stacks. The stacks do not have to be stored and retrieved sequentially. Multiple stacks can be stored and retrieved (almost) simultaneously. The last storage location within each channel can be monitored. The last storage location is served by the pulling unit. As soon as the last location is free, the pushing unit can insert a new stack on the opposite side of the channel.The stacks can all have the same time stamp with respect to a growth stage, which simplifies the coordination of material flow and increases throughput.

[0033] Preferably, the stacks are stored without load carriers in the rack storage channels and handled within the system. In particular, the stacks are stored and moved within the system without pallets.

[0034] Eliminating load carriers also increases storage density because more stacks can be stored per unit volume. The volume typically required for the load carrier is eliminated in the storage area. The racking can be designed to be lighter because the racking has to support a lower total weight. The weight of the load carriers is eliminated.

[0035] The same applies to the conveyor technology, which must transport the stacks between different locations within the system. For example, instead of the heavy off-shelf chain conveyors typically used for transporting pallets, lighter belt or roller conveyors can be used.

[0036] In addition, time-consuming palletizing and depalletizing processes are eliminated, especially during feeding.

[0037] Preferably, each of the shelf storage channels has an identical stack storage capacity, wherein each of the shelf storage channels is arranged to receive at least f0, 20, 30, 40, 50 or 60 of the stacks in the longitudinal direction one behind the other.

[0038] Since the channels are of identical length and are usually filled with new stacks simultaneously, the stacks already stored at the exit end of the corresponding channels have an identical residence time. This is advantageous for insect rearing, because the insects must be fed after a fixed time (with little tolerance). In other words, this means that an increase in throughput during rearing and feeding can be achieved.

[0039] The large number of stacks that can be stored consecutively in each of the channels enables continuous operation of the entire system. Both the infeed and outfeed machines can operate almost continuously, 24 hours a day, while still ensuring the insects remain within the storage area. The system can therefore be operated very efficiently and, in particular, without downtime.

[0040] Preferably, the system further comprises a (shelf-external) conveyor system which is coupled to the storage machine and to the retrieval machine with regard to a material flow, wherein the conveyor system preferably surrounds the storage machine, the retrieval machine and the shelf channel block circumferentially - in particular with a minimal distance from the shelf frame.

[0041] The conveyor system ensures the material flow connection of the storage area to other functional areas of the system. Feeding, growth stage monitoring, stocking, transferring, harvesting, (container) cleaning, and other related activities can be carried out at remote locations, which can be particularly advantageous with regard to the climatic conditions within the storage area. In other words, this means that only the storage area (shelf channel block or shelves) can be treated specially with regard to climate control.

[0042] On the other hand, feeding can take place in the immediate vicinity of the shelf channel block. Transport distances are therefore short, and throughput increases accordingly.

[0043] If the (external) conveyor system circulates around the storage machines, retrieval machines, and rack blocks, the stacks can be transported between all possible locations without having to pass through the rack channel block. Feeding stations can be positioned in close proximity to the rack channel block. Preferably, the system further comprises a stack forming device and / or a destacking device.

[0044] Stacks are required in the storage area. In other functional areas, it is advantageous if the containers are provided individually (such as during feeding). Therefore, stacking and unstacking devices are advantageous.

[0045] This object is further achieved by a method for operating a shelf channel block which is set up for the industrial automated breeding of insects and which has a plurality of shelf storage channels one above the other and / or next to one another, wherein each of the storage channels is set up to buffer a plurality of insect breeding containers (without load carriers) in the longitudinal direction of the shelf channel block in storage locations arranged (directly) one behind the other, wherein the method comprises the steps of: a) automated initial filling of one of the breeding containers with young insects of an initial growth stage and with feed;b) automated storage of the filled rearing container by moving it into one of the storage channels on the input side, which is linked to a current growth stage of the rearing container to be stored and which is not completely full, in particular by pushing it in such a way that rearing containers already stored in the respective storage channel move one of the storage locations further in the longitudinal direction in the respective storage channel; c) automated removal of one of the stored rearing containers from the respective storage channel on the output side, when: i) a fattening cycle (feeding cycle) linked to one of the stored rearing containers has expired, whereby the current growth stage is increased by one growth stage counter, and ii) the one of the stored rearing containers is positioned in a last one of the storage locations of the respective storage channel;d) determining whether the current growth stage of the outsourced rearing container has reached a harvest stage, where the harvest stage corresponds to a maximum growth stage counter to be reached; e) if the harvest stage of the outsourced rearing container has been reached, harvesting the appropriately aged insects by automatically emptying the outsourced rearing container and returning to step a); or e2) if the harvest stage of the outsourced rearing container has not yet been reached, automatically refilling the outsourced rearing container with feed and re-storing it according to step b). The method ensures continuous operation of a shelf channel block during insect rearing. The channels are optimally utilized. Only a few climate zones are required, which can be easily implemented, e.g., by means of horizontal partition walls that can be moved as needed (even subsequently).

[0046] A continuous cycle takes place. The insects are removed from the exit side, creating space for storage at the entrance. Storage allows the insects to be moved one position further within a channel, allowing access to the next stage at the exit side as soon as it is mature.

[0047] Depending on the channel depth, the storage and retrieval machines can be optimally utilized, resulting in a high yield of insects that can grow and be harvested.

[0048] Preferably, the method further comprises: initially filling the shelf channel block with empty breeding containers so that each of the storage locations is occupied by one of the breeding containers.

[0049] The containers or stacks are pushed through. Active conveyor technology within the channels is unnecessary.

[0050] Preferably, in step e2), the insects of the removed rearing container are distributed, after reaching a predetermined growth stage which is prior to the harvest stage, and before being refilled with feed, among a predetermined insect growth-specific number of empty rearing containers, which are then re-stored according to step b).

[0051] The volume increase during insect growth is taken into account (in advance). This prevents unwanted capacity problems.

[0052] Preferably, the method further comprises the steps of: initially linking the storage channels to one or more of the growth stages; wherein, in particular, the storage channel(s) of a top / bottom storage level are linked to the initial growth stage, the storage channel(s) of a bottom / top storage level are linked to the harvest stage, and the storage channel(s) between the top / bottom and bottom / top storage levels are linked to a growth stage that increases / decreases level by level. The insects "meander" through the shelf block. The transport routes from the channel exit to the channel entrance are as short as possible. The harvestable insects are preferably placed on the ground so that no (additional) heights need to be bridged during shipping.

[0053] Preferably, each of the storage channels is served: on the input side by a pushing unit which is configured to push a breeding container to be stored into the corresponding storage channel, so that at the same time breeding containers already stored are pushed further in the longitudinal direction within the corresponding storage channel, and opposite on the output side by a receiving unit, in particular by a pulling unit which is configured to pick up a breeding container to be retrieved in the longitudinal direction from a last of the storage locations of the corresponding storage channel.

[0054] The method can also be ideally implemented with a system of the type mentioned above, where several channels are provided next to each other and one above the other, where storage and retrieval machines are used that store or retrieve several stacks of containers simultaneously.

[0055] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the respective combinations specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Exemplary embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show:

[0056] Fig. 1 shows a layout (top view) of an insect rearing system;

[0057] Fig. 2 is a schematic front view of a bottom portion of a shelf channel block;

[0058] Fig. 3 different views of an insect rearing container;

[0059] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a stack of insect rearing containers of Fig. 3; Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view of an isolated shelf channel block including a storage machine;

[0060] Fig. 6 is a schematic side view of an input side of the shelf channel block of Fig.

[0061] 5 in a medium height range during a storage operation;

[0062] Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of a retrieval side of the shelf channel block of Figs. 5 and 6 during a retrieval process;

[0063] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the system of Fig. 1; and

[0064] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a conventional flow rack storage system.

[0065] Fig. 10 is a flowchart of a method for operating a shelf channel block; and

[0066] Fig. 11 is a side view of a shelf channel block illustrating a distribution of growth stages across levels and channel depths.

[0067] Fig. 1 shows a layout of an insect rearing system 10, which will hereinafter also be referred to as "system" 10 (for insect rearing). Fig. 1 shows a top view of the layout of the system 10.

[0068] The insect rearing system 10 is configured for the industrial, automated rearing of insects (based on larvae and / or eggs). The system 10 comprises at least one shelf channel block 12. Figure 1 shows, by way of example, eight shelf blocks 12-1 to 12-8, which can be arranged spaced apart from one another in a transverse direction Z of the system 10 to enable air conditioning and ventilation. It is understood that more or fewer shelf blocks 12 can be provided in the system 10. The system 10 can also comprise only a single shelf channel block 12.

[0069] The shelf block(s) 12 functionally represent one or more storage areas of the system 10. In these storage areas, young insects (e.g. from eggs or as larvae) grow into adult insects during a rearing cycle and are then harvested. During the growth phase, it may be necessary to move the growing insects in and out of storage several times, for example to: feed the insects (after an insect-specific fattening period of e.g. 24 hours); check a current growth stage and / or other parameters of the growing insects; transfer insects, e.g. by distributing grown insects from one container to several containers due to their increase in volume; sort out dead insects; treat insects (e.g. medically); and the like. At the end of the growth phase, the adult insects leave the storage area in order to (e.g.elsewhere in another, distant functional area). After that, the cultivation cycle begins again.

[0070] In general, each of the shelf blocks 12 has a plurality of shelf storage channels 14, which are arranged in a vertical direction Y of the system 10 and in the transverse direction Z of the system 10, preferably without spacing. The shelf storage channels 14 are defined by a shelf frame and can extend substantially along a longitudinal direction X of the system 10. The top view of Fig. 1 shows a top level of shelf storage channels 14.

[0071] In general, each of the shelf blocks 12 can be formed from, for example, four storage channels 14, which can be arranged next to one another (without spacing) in the transverse direction Z. It is understood that each of the shelf blocks 12 can have more or fewer storage channels 14 in the transverse direction Z. Preferably, however, each of the shelf blocks 12 has at least two storage channels 14 next to one another. Particularly preferred embodiments have either three, four, or five storage channels 14 next to one another, as will be explained in more detail below. However, it also works with just a single storage channel 14 in the transverse direction Z.

[0072] Each of the shelf blocks 12 can have several storage channels 14 arranged vertically one above the other. Preferably, up to twenty storage channels 14 are arranged one above the other (without spacing), as will be explained in more detail below. The vertical direction Y is not illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0073] Vertical and / or horizontal partitions can separate the different age zones in the shelf, define spaces for different climates and / or limit the (storage) volume to specific areas of the warehouse in the event of contamination. A horizontal climatic separation of the channel levels is preferred. Each of the shelf storage channels 14 is designed to accommodate a plurality of rearing container stacks 16, the structure of which will be explained in more detail with reference to Fig. 3, in the longitudinal direction X, preferably almost seamlessly (directly, i.e. almost without spacing) one behind the other on storage locations 17. Each of the stacks 16 can be formed by a plurality of (identical) rearing containers 33 stacked vertically one above the other, each of which in turn - in the storage area formed by the shelf blocks 12 - is usually filled with insect larvae (and their excretions, secretions and food).But it also works with stacks 16 with the height of a single container 33.

[0074] In Fig. 1, each of the storage channels 14 is filled with 39 stacks 16, as an example. In this case, each of the channels has 39 storage locations 17 arranged one behind the other. More or fewer stacks 16 (or even just (individual) containers 33) can be stored per channel 14.

[0075] Each of the shelf storage channels 14 is further configured for the passage of one or more of the stacks 16, or individual containers 33. For this purpose, each of the shelf storage channels 14 can be provided, for example, with roller rails 54 (arranged at the bottom of the channel) (see Fig. 2). The roller rails 54 can be positioned at the bottom in a left and right edge region of the channels 14.

[0076] The storage channels 14 are preferably oriented horizontally, i.e., horizontally. This means that the stacks 16 cannot move within their respective channels 14 by gravity. The lack of inclination has the advantage that the growing insects remain evenly distributed within the containers 33 of the stacks 16 and do not accumulate at a lowest point due to gravity and then potentially fall out of the container.

[0077] A movement of the stacks 16 within their channels 14 is preferably effected by actively applied forces from the outside, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0078] The rollers 55 of the roller rails 54 can be actively driven and / or passive (i.e., freely rotating). A passive design is preferred. It is understood that instead of the roller rails 54, other elements could be used to (slidingly) support the stored stacks 16 within the channels 14. Instead of the roller rails 54, for example, friction-reducing slide rails (not shown) or similar components could be used. Preferably, each of the shelf storage channels 14 has so-called push-through safeguards (e.g., locking pawls) at its inlet and / or outlet ends to prevent the stored stacks 16 from being inadvertently pushed out of the respective channel 14 or from falling out, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0079] One length of the channels 14 is considerably longer than usual in the logistics industry. The channel lengths can be between 20 and 50 meters, allowing stacks 16 to be stored significantly deeper than single-deep to five-deep. The storage density is very high.

[0080] Each of the rack blocks 12 can be provided (on the input side) with its own (stationary) storage machine 18. The storage machines 18 can be positioned at the input-side end faces of the respective rack blocks 12 (immediately adjacent). The input-side end faces of the rack blocks 12 extend in the YZ plane in Fig. 1. The input-side end faces of the rack blocks 12 are defined by the input-side longitudinal ends of the corresponding rack storage channels 14. The input-side longitudinal ends of the rack storage channels 14 also define a first longitudinal end of the respective rack channel block 12.

[0081] The storage machines 18 are preferably stationary lifters 20 and / or one or more storage and retrieval machines (SRM) that can be moved in the transverse direction Z, which are not shown in Fig. 1. In Fig. 1, eight stationary lifters 20 are also shown as examples, corresponding to the eight shelf blocks 12. Each of the lifters 20 in Fig. 1 can simultaneously serve the exemplary four storage channels 14 of a respective shelf level of its corresponding shelf channel block 12. The structure and operation of the lifter 20 will be explained in more detail below.

[0082] Each of the storage machines 18 has a, preferably exclusively, height-adjustable load-handling device (LAM) 22. Each of the LAMs 22 has a horizontally oriented platform 23 and can further comprise at least one stacking pusher unit 24, preferably mounted for displacement in the transverse direction Z. Each of the platforms 23 can be configured to accommodate a number n of stacks 16 (simultaneously adjacent to one another in Z), where n is preferably less than or equal to a number of storage channels 14 arranged adjacent to one another in Z in the corresponding shelf channel block 12. In Fig. 1, for example, n = 4.

[0083] Each of the stack pushing units 24 is configured to push a stack 16 to be stored from the LAM 22 into one of the shelf storage channels 14 and further to push already stored stacks 16 further within the corresponding shelf storage channel 14, as will be explained in more detail below. This means, in particular, that each of the stack pushing units 24 is configured to exert a correspondingly high force on the stack(s) 16 currently to be stored, which are located on the platform 23, and possibly on the stacks 16 already stored in the channel 14, so that the already stored stacks 16 can be pushed further or pushed through within the respective channel 14 by means of the stack(s) 16 to be stored in the direction of a channel exit. The LAM 22 can be configured to couple to the shelf frame of the respective shelf channel block 12 for the corresponding force transmission, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0084] On the opposite second end face of the respective shelf blocks 12, each of the shelf blocks 12 can be provided with a (preferably separate) retrieval machine 26. The retrieval machines 26 can be positioned (immediately) adjacent to the output-side end faces of the respective shelf blocks 12. The output-side end faces of the shelf blocks 12 extend in the YZ plane in Fig. 1. The output-side end faces of the shelf blocks 12 are defined by the output-side longitudinal ends of the corresponding shelf storage channels 14. The output-side longitudinal ends of the shelf storage channels define a second longitudinal end of the respective shelf channel block 12, which is opposite the first longitudinal end.

[0085] Preferably, the retrieval machines 26 are also stationary lifters 20 and / or one or more SRMs movable in the transverse direction Z, which are not shown in Fig. 1. In Fig. 1, eight stationary lifters 20 are also provided on the output side by way of example. Each of these lifters 20 can simultaneously serve the four storage channels 14 of its corresponding rack channel block 12 arranged side by side in Fig. 1.

[0086] Each of the delivery machines 26 also has a, preferably exclusively, height-adjustable LAM 28. Each of the LAMs 28 has a horizontally oriented platform 23 and can further comprise at least one stack pulling unit 30, preferably mounted displaceably in the transverse direction Z. Each of the platforms 23 can be configured to accommodate the number n of stacks 16 (simultaneously adjacent to one another in Z).

[0087] Each of the stack pulling units 30 can be configured to pull a (single), and preferably also several, stacks 16 to be retrieved from one of the respective rack storage channels 14 onto the LAM 26. This means, in particular, that each of the stack pulling units 30 can be configured to exert correspondingly high forces on the stack(s) 16 currently being retrieved. The LAM 28 can be configured to couple to the rack frame of the respective rack channel block 12 for force transmission, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0088] Furthermore, the system 10 can have a (shelf-external) conveyor system 32. The conveyor system 32 is configured to transport both the stacks 16 and individual rearing containers 33 (see Fig. 3). The conveyor system 32 can be designed, for example, as a roller conveyor or chain conveyor. Other conveyor types (e.g., belt conveyors, overhead conveyors, etc.) are also conceivable.

[0089] The conveyor system 32 is preferably arranged so as to extend around the shelf block(s) 12. In Fig. 1, the conveyor system 32 extends around the eight shelf blocks 12-1 to 12-8. In this case, the conveyor system 32 encloses the shelf blocks 12. With regard to a material flow (MF), the conveyor system 32 can be connected to the input-side and output-side lifters 20, i.e., to the storage machines 18 and / or the retrieval machines 26. The conveyor system 32 ensures a supply (transport to and from) of the stacks 16 to the storage machines 18 and the retrieval machines 26.

[0090] In Fig. 1, the material flow (and its direction) is illustrated by arrows "MF". This means that in the example of Fig. 1, the material flow can run clockwise around the shelf blocks 12 and from bottom to top within the shelf blocks 12 or the storage channels 14. The directions can also be reversed. However, the movement of the stacks 16 is preferably unidirectional, particularly within the channels 14. It is understood that the conveyor system 32 does not necessarily have to run around the (closed) storage area formed by the shelf blocks 12. The conveyor system 32 can be connected to other (functional) areas (not shown in Fig. 1) of the system 10 via one or more interfaces 34. An infeed is illustrated by an arrow "IN". An outfeed is illustrated by an arrow "OUT".During the infeed, individual rearing containers 33 and / or stacks 16 containing young insects (e.g., larvae) and feed can be transported to the storage area (shelf blocks 12). During the outfeed, individual rearing containers 33 and / or stacks 16 can be transported, for example, to a transfer station, harvesting station, checking station, container washing station, and similar stations not shown in Fig. 1.

[0091] Furthermore, the system 10, particularly in the area of ​​the conveyor system 32, can comprise one or more stack-forming devices 36 and / or one or more unstacking devices 38. Each of the stack-forming devices 36 is configured to form one of the stacks 16 from several of the individual rearing containers 33 by stacking them one on top of the other. Each of the unstacking devices 38 is configured to separate the stacks 16 into the individual rearing containers 33. The system 10 of Fig. 1 has, by way of example, two stack-forming devices 36 and, by way of example, two unstacking devices 38, particularly in the immediate vicinity of feeding stations. More or fewer of the devices 36 and 38 can be provided.

[0092] Furthermore, the system 10, particularly in the area of ​​the conveyor system 32, can comprise one or more feeding devices 40. The system 10 of Fig. 1 comprises, by way of example, two feeding devices 40. Each of the feeding devices or feeding stations 40 can be configured to fill the rearing containers 33 with feed (particularly from above). The feeding stations 40 of Fig. 1 are arranged in the immediate vicinity of the storage area.

[0093] Feeding preferably takes place while the rearing containers 33 pass through the station(s) 40. This means, in particular, that the containers 33 are moved through the stations 40 without stopping while the feed is added. Since each of the containers 33 (within one of the stacks 16) is to be supplied with feed, the stations 40 are preferably arranged between the devices 36 and 38 with respect to the material flow MF. Furthermore, Fig. 1 shows that the shelf blocks 12 themselves, in contrast to the channels 14, can be arranged spaced apart from one another in the transverse direction Z. The spacing can serve the purpose of creating space for ventilation pipes 44, (maintenance) aisles 46, and / or other elements for supplying the storage area, as shown by way of example in Fig. 2.

[0094] The (maintenance) aisles 46 can be configured for access by maintenance technicians. The aisles 46 can be provided with one or more ladders 47, particularly on the entrance and / or exit sides of the corresponding shelving units 12, see Fig. 2. Furthermore, (horizontal) intermediate floors (not shown) can be provided in the aisles 46, which extend in the longitudinal direction X and can be spaced apart from one another in the vertical direction Y.

[0095] Furthermore, a corresponding air conditioning and / or ventilation system can be provided, although this is not shown in Fig. 1. The ventilation is preferably arranged such that the stacks 16 are ventilated within the channels 14 in the transverse direction Z, as indicated by arrows 42 in Figs. 1 and 2. The transverse ventilation can be achieved by using the (empty) aisles 46 between the shelf blocks 12 for blowing in and sucking out (air). The pipes 44 are operated accordingly in suction or blowing mode. Via the ventilation, or the air associated with it, a variety of biological parameters for rearing can be regulated, such as the temperature (e.g. 28° C), (relative) humidity (e.g. 70%), ammonia and oxygen content, and the like.

[0096] The number of ducts 14 that define each of the shelf blocks 12 next to each other in Z can reference a maximum possible ventilation length or performance. The maximum ventilation length can be, for example, approximately 3.5 m. Over such a distance, the containers 33 can still be reliably (cross-)ventilated. With a container width (in Z) of, for example, 800 mm, the maximum possible ventilation length is achieved with an arrangement of four ducts 14 next to each other in Z. It is understood that the number of ducts provided next to each other in Z can depend on the performance of the ventilation system. If the ventilation system has a higher performance, more ducts 14 could be arranged next to each other in Z, each defining one of the shelf blocks 12 (in the transverse direction Z). In general, the aim is to keep the number of aisles 46 within the overall system as low as possible, in particular to increase storage density.The ventilation capacity can also influence the maximum height of each of the rack blocks 12. Experiments have shown that the rack blocks 12 should not be higher than 15 m, which can still be well ventilated with continuous vertical pipes 44.

[0097] The maximum height of the rack blocks 12 can also be influenced by the (mechanical) capabilities and properties of the lifts 20. The higher the lifts 20 are, the lower the throughput. The lifts 20 require more time to move their LAMs 22 or 28 from the lowest storage channel 14 to the highest storage channel 14. This can also be used to determine optimum operating conditions.

[0098] Combining the above values ​​(for example, a height of 15 m and a number of channels / lifts of four), the (performance of) the lifts 20 can be designed accordingly. This determines the performance (number of storage cycles) that a lift 20 can achieve, and from this, the number of containers 33 in a stack 16 can be derived. In this way, a container dimension of 800 x 600 x 190 mm can be obtained for the containers 33 and twenty channels 14 (for a stack 16 of three containers 33 each) stacked on top of each other.

[0099] Fig. 2 shows a schematic (isolated) front view of one of the rack blocks 12 of Fig. 1 in the floor area. Fig. 2 shows a view in the longitudinal direction X of the entrance-side end face of the corresponding rack channel block 12, which stands on the (hall) floor and is only partially shown in the vertical direction Y. The storage machine 18 belonging to the rack channel block 12 is not shown.

[0100] In Fig. 2, in particular, the two lowest shelf levels RE1 and RE2 are shown, which are arranged one above the other in the height direction Y. The shelf channel block 12 shown is composed, as already mentioned above, in the Z direction of four shelf columns RS1 to RS4, each of which comprises a number of storage channels 14 corresponding to the shelf levels RE, one above the other in the Y direction.

[0101] In Fig. 2, five randomly selected channels 14 are illustrated by dot-dash lines. The two lower levels RE1 and RE2 in Fig. 2 are completely filled with stacks 16. The stacks 16 each consist of three rearing containers 33 arranged one above the other, each of which can have a total weight (container + insects + feed) of, for example, 15 kg, so that each of the stacks 16 can weigh up to 45 kg. The third shelf level RE3 is shown empty in Fig. 2.

[0102] Fig. 2 further illustrates that the channels 14 are defined by the rack frame. The rack frame comprises, in particular, (vertical) rack posts 48, (horizontal) cross members 50 (e.g., support brackets, preferably continuous, to which the roller rails can be fastened), and (horizontal) longitudinal members 52 (not shown, perpendicular to the plane of the drawing in Fig. 2). The rack frame can also comprise the aforementioned roller rails 54. As an alternative to the roller rails 54, roller conveyors can also be installed, the rollers of which extend across the entire width of a channel 14.

[0103] Fig. 3A-D show various views of an exemplary breeding container 33, which is made (entirely) of plastic, in particular by injection molding. A lightweight construction is preferred.

[0104] Fig. 3A shows a perspective view of a top side of the container 33. Fig. 3B shows a perspective view of a bottom side of the container 33. Fig. 3C shows a side view of the container 33 along a line CC in Fig. 3A. Fig. 3D shows a side view of the container 33 along a line DD in Fig. 3A.

[0105] The container 33 of Fig. 3 has a preferably closed bottom 56 and one or more side walls 58 and / or 60. In a use state of the container 33, the bottom 56 is oriented horizontally and the side wall(s) 58 and / or 60 are oriented vertically.

[0106] The (long) side walls 58 and the (short) side walls 60 can be connected in a circumferential direction in order to secure insects (not shown) on all sides (in particular downwards and laterally) from falling out of the container 33. In the corner regions of the container 33, the side walls 58 and 60 can be provided, for example, with corner elevations 62 which, in a stacked state, i.e. when several containers 33 are stacked vertically inside and on top of each other (cf. Fig. 4), can define lateral openings 64 and 66; see also the areas outlined in dashed lines in Fig. 3A. The openings 64 and 66 serve to ventilate the insects growing in the containers 33. The corner elevations 62 are preferably designed in the manner of a grid to additionally support the ventilation. Preferably, one pair of sides (long or short, depending on the storage orientation) is without a grid and / or without an opening 64 or66 designed to create a (closed) flow channel for the air, where the air flows in a forced manner along a preferred direction.

[0107] The long side walls 58 are, for example, 800 mm long, see Fig. 3C, and the short side walls 60 are, for example, 600 mm long. The base 56 can be shorter than the side walls 58 and 60 to enable reliable stackability of the containers 33. The containers 33 are, in particular, stackable vertically inside and on top of each other, so that the containers 33 cannot slip laterally (horizontally) when stacked.

[0108] This means, in particular, that the containers 33 can be securely locked into one another within the stack 16. Each of the containers 33 is preferably designed to engage positively with its upper and / or lower neighbors when stacked vertically one on top of the other. The engagement occurs, in particular, in such a way that a lateral horizontal offset of the individual containers 33 relative to one another is prevented, as could occur, for example, when pushed into a channel 14 and when pushed through within the channel 14. During pushing in and pushing through, high horizontal forces can act on the stacks 16, in particular when several fully loaded stacks 16 are arranged one behind the other within one of the channels 14 (in contact). In particular, when the stacks 16 are pushed through the channels 14, the containers 33 are subjected to high shear forces. For this reason, correspondingly flat surfaces and stiffeners are preferably provided.Tipping, tilting, or standing upright of the stacks 16, or even separation of the stacks 16 into individual containers 33, can be prevented by appropriate hold-down devices (not shown). The channels 14 themselves can constitute hold-down devices by being dimensioned accordingly.

[0109] The base 56 can be reinforced to support heavy loads (insects and food weighing preferably up to 15 kg). The base 56 can, for example, have reinforcing struts. The base 56 is designed to be inserted vertically from above into a container opening (not shown or identified in more detail here), which is defined by the side walls 58 and 60 or by the corner elevations 62. In other words, this means that a circumferential outer dimension of the base 56 is adapted to a circumferential inner dimension of the opening defined by the corner elevations.

[0110] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of two containers 33-1 and 33-2 of the type shown in Fig. 3, stacked vertically one above the other. Fig. 4 thus shows the above-mentioned stacked state of the containers 33-1 and 33-2. The two containers 33-1 and 33-2 are flush with each other with respect to their lateral outer surfaces and form a flat and uniform stack 16 along their outer surfaces. This ensures a uniform distribution of force during insertion.

[0111] Fig. 5 shows a schematic plan view of one of the shelf blocks 12 of Fig. 1. In Fig. 5, this shelf channel block 12 is shown in isolation to simplify understanding of the input-side (storage) processes and the structure of the storage machine 18. The channels 14-1 to 14-4 are not shown in their full length in X. A conveyor connection of the storage machine 18 to the conveyor system 32 is also not illustrated, although it is present.

[0112] In the example of Fig. 5, the stacks 16-1 to 16-4 to be stored can be moved, for example, from right to left (automatically) by the conveyor system 32 (not shown) onto the LAM 22 of the storage machine 18, as indicated by dark arrows in Fig. 5. The LAM 22 can be provided with its own conveyor 68. The conveyor 68 in Fig. 5 is implemented as a roller conveyor by way of example.

[0113] The conveyor 68 can extend substantially along the transverse direction Z on the LAM 22. The conveyor 68 can be fixedly mounted on the platform 23 of the LAM 22. The conveyor 68 moves with the LAM 22. This means that the conveyor 68 is movable in the vertical direction Y by means of the LAM 22.

[0114] The conveyor 68 can be provided with alignment units 70 to stop the stacks 16 to be stored precisely in front of their respective channels 14, thereby aligning them into the respective channels 14 into which they are to be stored. The units 70 can be implemented, for example, by vertically movable (mechanical) stop elements (e.g., plate-like stops) that can be provided in the spaces between adjacent rollers of the roller conveyor. The stop elements can also be implemented by software, for example, by using cameras to determine and influence the position of the stack 16 to be stored on the conveyor 68 relative to the corresponding channel 14, e.g., using image processing methods.

[0115] Preferably, the same number of stop elements as channels are provided in a plane 14 in the shelf channel block 12. The stop elements are positioned such that the stacks 16 can subsequently be pushed into their channels 14 in the longitudinal direction X without colliding with the shelf frame or the respective channel 14, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0116] The conveyor 68 can be of modular construction. Preferably, the conveyor 68 is formed from at least as many conveyor modules as there are storage channels 14 in the associated rack channel block 12. Each of the conveyor modules is, in particular, at least as long as the channels 14 are wide in Z. The conveyor modules can be controlled and operated individually or jointly. Individual control is used, in particular, when aligning the stacks 16 to be stored in front of their respective channels 14, preferably in combination with the corresponding stop elements. Each conveyor module can be provided with its own stop element.

[0117] Opposite the conveyor 68, a corresponding number of (preferably stationary) stack-pushing units 24-1 to 24-4 are provided, corresponding to the channels 14 of the block 12. It is understood that the pushing units 24-1 to 24-4 could be replaced by one or more pushing units 24 (not shown) movably mounted in Z. The provision of four (separately controllable) pushing units 24 is preferred because in this case the (four) stacks 16 to be stored can be stored (almost) simultaneously. In this way, the duration of a storage cycle is shortened.

[0118] Although Fig. 5 only shows a "single-deep" storage of four stacks 16-1 to 16-4 to be stored, it is understood that "multi-deep" storage could also be achieved by positioning several rows of stacks 16 to be stored next to one another in Z on the LAM 22 instead of just one row of stacks 16 to be stored, in which the stacks 16 are arranged one behind the other in X. In this case, more than one stack 16 to be stored would be pushed (simultaneously) into the associated channel 14 during storage. Accordingly, more conveyors 68 can be provided on the LAM 22 (not shown). Each of the stack pushing units 24 can have a pushing plate 72. The pushing plate 72 can be implemented by one or more plates or strips that are oriented, for example, in the YZ plane and that can be moved, for example, via one or more pushing cylinders 74 in the longitudinal direction X in order to push the stacks 16.

[0119] Fig. 5 illustrates the shields 72 of the units 24 in different (actuated) states. The shield 72 of the unit 24-1 is shown in a fully retracted state, as is the case when the stack 16-1 to be stored is still completely on the platform 23. The shield 72 of the unit 24-2 is slightly extended in the (positive) longitudinal direction X, so that the corresponding stack 16-2 to be stored has moved slightly into the channel 14-2, but is still partially sitting on the platform 23. The shield 72 of the unit 24-3 is extended a little further in the longitudinal direction X, whereby the stack 16-3 to be stored is still not completely in its channel 14-3. The shield 72 of the unit 24-4 is (almost) fully extended in the longitudinal direction X, so that the stack 16-4 to be stored is completely in its receiving channel 14-4.Stack 16-4 is therefore stored and is no longer on platform 23.

[0120] At the same time, it can be seen that the stacks 16-2 to 16-4 to be stored push or push through the stacks 16 already stored, which are additionally marked by a cross in Fig. 5, within their respective channels 14-2 to 14-4 in the positive longitudinal direction X.

[0121] Fig. 5 shows a snapshot of a storage process that illustrates the slight time offset during storage. It is understood that the stacks 16-1 to 16-4 to be stored could also all be pushed into their respective channels 14 at the same time. In this case, the storage time is correspondingly shorter. However, a distribution of the pushing force during the pushing into the channels 14 could speak against simultaneous storage in all channels 14 of the respective shelf channel block 12. The temporal profile of the respective pushing force is not constant. It has a peak that can occur between the start of the pushing and after a maximum of approximately 0.5 s. It is therefore preferable to push the stacks 16-1 to 16-4 into the channels 14 with a time delay (e.g., with a delay of 0.5 s). In this case, the force peaks do not occur simultaneously, but with a slight time delay.In this case, the force introduced into the rack by the storage machine 18 is distributed over a longer period of time, thus protecting both the machine 18 and the rack. Any resulting negative impact on throughput (number of stacks stored per unit of time) is almost negligible.

[0122] The LAM 22 of the storage machine 18 can further comprise one or more support elements 76 (preferably provided laterally on the LAM 22). Figure 5 shows two exemplary support elements 76, which can be mounted in outer edge regions of the platform 23. The support elements 76 overlap with the shelf channel block 12 in the longitudinal direction X. The support elements 76 can be fixed to the platform 23 and can, for example, comprise one or more rollers 78. The rollers 78 can be arranged such that they engage from behind in the (outer in Z) shelf posts 48, which can have a C-shaped profile.

[0123] In a normal state in which no storage is taking place and the LAM 22 is being moved in the height direction Y or is being loaded with new stacks 16 to be stored via the conveyor system 32 (not shown), the support elements 76 (via their rollers 78) are not in contact with the rack channel block 12 (via its outer rack posts 48). This means that in the normal state of the LAM 22, the rollers 78 have play (both in X and in Z) with the post 48. During storage, the push units 24 exert forces in X on the rack frame, especially if stacks 16 that have already been stored are present within the corresponding channel 14. The stacks 16 that have already been stored must be pushed further within the channel 14. Therefore, the corresponding reaction force causes the platform 23 to move in the negative X direction. The rollers 78 then come into contact with the C-shaped posts 48 and support the LAM 22 accordingly on the shelf channel block 12.

[0124] Between the entrances of the channels 14, insertion aids 80 (for example, wedges) can be provided to guide the stacks 16 to be stored toward a channel center during storage, as illustrated in Fig. 5. Corresponding insertion aids 80 could also be provided on the top and / or bottom of the channels.

[0125] Furthermore, side guides 82 can be provided between the channels 14. The side guides 82 can extend, continuously or discretely divided, over the entire length (in X) of the channels 14. Lateral guidance could also be provided via flanged rollers (in the roller bars 54), which could be provided instead of normal rollers 50 over the entire length of the channel or discretely distributed over the channel length. The side guides 82 prevent stacks 16 already stored from moving laterally (in Z) out of their respective channel 14, particularly when pushed through. The side guides can be implemented, for example, by rails or plates oriented in the XY plane.

[0126] Fig. 6 shows a schematic side view of a storage process analogous to Fig. 5. Fig. 6 shows the shelf channel block 12 and the storage machine 18 of Fig. 5, but at a different height of the shelf channel block 12. In other words, this means that Fig. 6 shows storage at a middle height of the shelf channel block 12 - and thus not at the bottom of the shelf channel block 12 like Fig. 5.

[0127] For simplicity, only one of the channels 14 is illustrated with a roller bar 54 (consisting of a plurality of rollers 55). It is understood that additional, correspondingly designed channels 14 are provided above and below the illustrated channel 14. The channel 14 shown is filled with stacks 16 already stored. A new stack 16-1 to be stored is located on the LAM 22 of the storage machine 18, which is arranged on the input side of the rack channel block 12. The stack 16-1 to be stored is still completely located on the platform 23.

[0128] One or more backstops 84 can be provided at the inlet end of the channel 14. The backstop 84 can be provided in the area of ​​the roller bars 54 of the channel 14, or also between the roller bars 54. The backstop 84 can be pivotable. The backstop 84 can be provided with a return spring or an eccentric counterweight (not shown). The backstop 84 is designed to prevent stacks 16 that have already been stored from (unintentionally) moving out of the channel 14. The backstop 84 is further designed not to block the stack 16-1 during storage, for example by being mounted so that it can be pivoted downwards.

[0129] It is understood that corresponding backstops 84 can also be provided at the output end of the respective channels 14, in particular to prevent stacks 16 already stored from accidentally falling out, while a new stack to be stored (stack 16-1 in Fig. 6) is pushed into the corresponding channel 14 on the input side. Fig. 6 also serves to illustrate a (temporal) sequence of the stacks 16 already stored. In the upper left corner of the stacks 16, numbers "1" to "5" are shown in circles, which are intended to represent a storage time. The higher the number, the longer the corresponding stack 16 has already been in the channel 14. The numbers 1' to 4' illustrate the sequence at an earlier or later time, i.e. before or after the stack 16-1 is or was stored.

[0130] Fig. 7 illustrates a retrieval process. Fig. 7 shows a schematic side view of an output end of channel 14 of Fig. 6. Channel 14 of Fig. 7 is completely filled with stacks 16 already stored. The retrieval machine 26 is arranged opposite the output end of channel 14. The LAM 28 of the retrieval machine 26 has been moved vertically to a height corresponding to the (retrieval) channel 14 from which one of the stacks 16 is to be retrieved.

[0131] Fig. 7 shows the (stack) pulling unit(s) 30 and the (optional) conveyor 68 of the LAM 28 of the retrieval machine 26, which can be mounted on the platform 23. The conveyor 68 of the retrieval machine 26 can be designed analogously to the conveyor 68 of the storage machine 18. The pulling unit 30 can have one or more telescopic arms 86 that can be extended and retracted in the longitudinal direction X in order to reach into the channel 14 and grip the stack 16 to be retrieved, e.g., laterally (in Z). The telescopic arms 86 can represent lateral grippers of the pulling unit 30, which could also pull the stacks 16 out of the channels 14, e.g., only laterally by means of frictional engagement. The telescopic arms 86 can be provided with pulling fingers 88, which are preferably pivotably mounted about the longitudinal axis X. When the arms 86 are extended and retracted, the fingers 88 can be oriented vertically in order not to collide with the stack 16 to be removed.Once the arms 86 have been moved far enough into the channel 14, the fingers 88 can be pivoted into a horizontal position in order to reach behind the stack 16 to be retrieved and to engage the stack 16 during retrieval.

[0132] The channels 14 are preferably oriented horizontally. However, the channels 14 can also be slightly inclined, since the operation of a channel 14 preferably only takes place in a single direction. This would mean that, on the one hand, the pushing forces on the storage side are lower, but on the removal side the (accumulated) stacks 16 would be close together (i.e., without any gaps) against a stop. In this case, the pulling unit 30 should be set up to separate the last two stacks 16. Without an incline of the channel 14, i.e., in which the channel 14 is oriented horizontally, the stack 16 to be removed will not be located exactly at a (predefined) removal position, so the pulling unit 30 must detect a front edge of the stack 16 to be removed and removes the stack 16 according to this position, from the side or, if necessary, from the front.

[0133] It is understood that each of the retrieval machines 26 preferably comprises the same number of pulling units 30 as the storage machines 18 comprise pushing units 24. In other words, this means that the retrieval machine 26 shown in Fig. 7 preferably has four (stationary) pulling units 30 (next to one another in Z). As already explained for the storage machine 18, it is also possible - at the expense of the retrieval performance - to provide only one pulling unit 30 on the platform 23, which is configured to receive four retrieved stacks 16 next to one another in Z. In this case, the pulling unit 30 is mounted so as to be movable in the transverse direction Z. It is also understood that each of the pulling units 30 can be individually controlled. Preferably, all pulling units 30 of the respective retrieval machine 26 are operated simultaneously, which considerably reduces the duration of a retrieval cycle.

[0134] The pull unit 30 can be configured to move the second-to-last stack 16 (with sequence number n-1) slightly backward within the channel 14, i.e., in the negative X direction, to create a distance from the stack 16-n to be removed. This distance allows the pull finger 88 to reach behind the stack 16-n to be removed.

[0135] The LAM 26 of the retrieval machine 26 can also be provided with one or more support elements 76.

[0136] As already mentioned above, the output end of the channel 14 can also be provided with a barrier 84 to prevent the stack 16 from being accidentally pushed through. The barrier 84 can be deactivated by the LAM 28 to clear the path for the stack 16-n to be removed toward the platform 23.

[0137] The output-side ends of the channels 14 can be configured as braking sections 90. In particular, the respective roller bar 54 can be designed to be shorter than the total length of the respective channel 14, so that the roller bar 54 ends prematurely before the output-side end of the channel 14. In other words, this means that the braking section 90 can connect to the end of the roller bar 54 and extend to the end of the channel 14. The braking section 90 can be implemented as a sliding rail (in particular with increased frictional resistance).

[0138] A final storage location in channel 14, which overlaps with the braking section 90, can represent a separation area 92. In the separation area 92, the stack 16-n to be retrieved is separated from the remaining stacks 16, which continue to be stored in channel 14.

[0139] The pulling unit 30 pulls the stack 16-n to be retrieved onto the platform 23, from where the retrieved stack 16-n can be delivered (at a corresponding height) to the conveyor system 32 (not shown), see also Fig. 1.

[0140] Fig. 8 illustrates the system 10 of Fig. 1 in a perspective view.

[0141] Fig. 8 shows that the arrangement of the various components of system 10 shown in the layout of Fig. 1 can be repeated in the vertical direction Y. This means that there can be multiple rack channel block groups and conveyor systems 32 stacked on multiple levels. The rack blocks 12 can be provided separately for each level, but they can also be provided as continuous rack blocks 12 in the vertical direction Y. The same applies to the storage machines 18 and the retrieval machines 26 (or the corresponding lifters 20).

[0142] Both the storage machines 18 and the retrieval machines 26 could be replaced and / or supplemented by one or more storage and retrieval machines (not illustrated). These storage and retrieval machines can have LAMs that correspond to the LAMs 22 and 26 of the storage machines 18 and the retrieval machines 26, respectively. In this case, the storage and retrieval machines are movable in the transverse direction Z along the respective end faces of the rack blocks 12. In other words, this means that the storage and retrieval machines are positioned, preferably directly, adjacent to the input sides and output sides of the channels 14.

[0143] The structural design of system 10 is thus described. The dwell time of the insect-filled containers 33 or stacks 16 within the respective channel 14 preferably corresponds to a fattening period between two feedings. The fattening period varies for each insect species. Mealworms, for example, have a fattening period of 24 hours, whereas black soldier flies have a fattening period of 5 days. This fattening or dwell time in the channels 14 must be maintained as precisely as possible (+ / - 15 minutes). A channel 14 with a storage capacity of, for example, 40 stacks 16 can be completely emptied in approximately 45 minutes.

[0144] It is understood that the storage and retrieval machines 18 and 26 could also be configured to store and retrieve several of the stacks 16 one above the other in Y, instead of side by side in Z. The LAMs 22 and 28 would have to be configured accordingly.

[0145] Fig. 10 illustrates a method 100 for operating a shelf channel block 12 configured for the industrial, automated breeding of insects, which may comprise a plurality of shelf storage channels 14 arranged one above the other and / or side by side. The shelf channel block 12 is preferably constructed as described above. This means, for example, that the shelf channel block 12 may comprise four channels 14 arranged side by side in Z (without spacing) and twenty channels 14 arranged one above the other in Y—in the form of shelf levels. It is understood that other numbers of channels may also be selected in Z and / or Y, as already explained above.

[0146] In the method 100, however, it is also possible for the shelf channel block 12 to have, for example, only a single channel 14 in Z and, for example, eighteen channels 14 in Y one above the other (or vice versa: one channel 14 in Y and eighteen channels 14 next to each other in Z) with a certain storage depth in X, which is preferably greater than three storage locations 17, more preferably greater than four storage locations 17 and even more preferably greater than 5 storage locations 17 up to, for example, thirty, forty, fifty or even more storage locations 17.

[0147] Each of the storage channels 14 is thus configured, as already described above, to buffer a plurality of insect breeding containers 33, preferably without load carriers, in the longitudinal direction X of the shelf channel block 12 in the storage locations 17 arranged (in particular directly) one behind the other. In method 100, the stacks 16 do not necessarily have to be used; unstacked containers 33 can also be buffered in the channels 14 to allow the insects to grow.Each of the storage channels 14 can be operated: on the input side by a (single) of the above-described pushing units 24, which can be configured in particular to push a breeding container 33 to be stored into the corresponding storage channel 14, so that at the same time breeding containers 33 already stored are pushed further within the corresponding storage channel 14 in the longitudinal direction X, and opposite on the output side by a (single) receiving unit, in particular by one of the above-described pulling units 30, which can be configured to receive a breeding container 33 to be retrieved in the longitudinal direction X from the last of the storage locations 17 of the corresponding storage channel 14, in particular by pulling it up.

[0148] In a first step S10, an automated initial filling of one of the rearing containers 33 with young insects, which are all in an initial growth stage, and with food can take place.

[0149] Subsequently, in a step S12, the thus filled rearing container 33 can be automatically stored by moving it from the input side into one of the storage channels 14 which is linked to a current growth stage of the rearing container 33 to be stored - in this case, the initial growth stage - whereby this channel 14 must not be completely full because otherwise there would be no more space. The storage takes place in particular by pushing it in such a way that rearing containers 33 already stored in the respective storage channel 14 move one of the storage locations 17 further or deeper in the longitudinal direction X in the respective storage channel 14. This movement can take place passively, in that the pushing unit 30 pushes the containers 33 from the outside, or actively, in that the channels 14 are provided with a driven conveyor system (e.g., with driven roller bars 54).

[0150] It is understood that the containers 33 thus filled can also be stacked in advance to store the stacks 16, as described above. The handling of individual containers 33 is described below, although the subsequent steps could also be performed with stacks 16.

[0151] A stored rearing container 33 is automatically retrieved from its storage channel 14 on the output side (cf. step S15), if two conditions in particular are met. The first condition defines retrieval if the fattening cycle (feeding cycle, e.g., a residence time of 24 hours in channel 14) associated with the stored rearing container 33 has expired, whereby the current growth stage increases by one growth stage unit (e.g., 1 day). The harvest stage corresponds to a maximum achievable number of growth stage counter units (e.g., 24 days). The second condition defines retrieval if the affected rearing container 33 must be positioned at a last storage location 17 of the respective storage channel 14. These two conditions must be met cumulatively to trigger retrieval.The corresponding states are checked in the queries of steps S14 and S16, in particular by the (not illustrated) controller, which can track a position of the containers 33 within the channels 14 and which can also monitor the last storage location 17 with suitable sensors (possibly including an identification device), as already mentioned above.

[0152] If the fattening cycle has not yet expired (S14: No), the system continues to wait and query, see step S 18, until the fattening time (24h) is reached.

[0153] If container 33, which has reached the fattening time, is the last one in channel 14, it can be removed from storage.

[0154] The decision as to whether the removed container 33 can be harvested (see step S20) or needs to be refilled with feed (see step S22) is made in step S24. In step S24, a query is made as to whether the removed container 33 has reached the harvest stage, after which it continues to step S20, or not, after which it continues to step S22. In step S22, the container 33 is refilled with feed and, on the input side, is again stored in one of the channels 14 (see step S12), which has a free storage location 17 and is linked to the current growth stage. The growth stage counter can, for example, be increased by one increment after the feeding process (step S22), i.e., the rearing container 33 reaches feeding at age "7" and leaves at age "8", which can be relevant for the selection of the storage level or storage channel 14.These queries (storage space free? + current growth stage? -> determination of a suitable storage channel 14) can follow step S22 before the (re-)storage takes place according to step S12. In step S20, the container is harvested by being automatically emptied. The emptied container 33 can then be cleaned (step S26) before the thus cleaned container 33 is then initially refilled (step S10) to complete the cycle again.

[0155] When working with the push units 24 described above, which push the containers 33 and / or stacks 16 into the channels 14 and at the same time push already stored containers 33 or stacks 16 further, it is recommended to completely fill the shelf channel block 12 with empty containers 33 / stacks 16 in advance in order to start the circulating process (in at the front + out at the back).

[0156] It may also be necessary to "move" the growing insects during their growth cycle. This means that, for example, insects have increased in volume after twelve days of growth to such an extent that they must be distributed among several empty containers 33 in order to have sufficient space in their respective containers 33 at the end of the growth cycle, i.e. after twenty-four days, because they increase in volume again during the last twelve days. These factors can be taken into account during the initial dimensioning of the block 12 and later when determining the degree of utilization of an existing block 12, in particular when determining the number of channels 14 required or operated. These factors are insect species-specific.

[0157] The method 100 may include a further step (not shown) prior to the initial filling of the containers 33. The method 100 may further comprise: initial (insect-specific) linking of the storage channels 14 to one or more of the growth stages, wherein in particular: the storage channel(s) 14 of a top / bottom storage level are linked to the initial growth stage; the storage channel(s) 14 of a bottom / top storage level are linked to the harvest stage; and the storage channel(s) 14 between the top / bottom and bottom / top storage level are linked to a level-by-level increasing / decreasing growth stage.

[0158] The table below illustrates an example in which the shelf channel block 12 ("Modules: 1") is defined as twenty shelf levels stacked one above the other in Y, with each level defined as four channels 14 next to each other in Z. The growth cycle is, for example, 24 days. Transfer takes place after 12 days by distributing the insects from a container 33 to four new (empty) containers. For optimal utilization and operation of this block 12, it is recommended in this example to store sixty-four stacks 16 of three containers 33 each in the block 12 every day. The storage capacity of each channel 14 is, for example, fifty stacks 16 in depth X. Each storage and retrieval machine 18 or 26 serves four channels 14 in Z simultaneously.

[0159] Table 1 :

[0160] The following Table 2 shows an exemplary distribution of climate zones depending on the growth cycle.

[0161] Table 2:

[0162] The following Table 3 shows an exemplary allocation of the growth stages (or growth days) to the shelf levels, with the insects migrating from top to bottom through block 12 as they age.

[0163] Table 3:

[0164] Fig. 11 shows a distribution of the various growth stages in a side view of block 12. It can be seen that, for example, in the first (top) level there are only insects from growth stages "1-3", in the second level stages "4-6" etc. At stage "12" the storage space occupancy takes a turn. Up to the fourth level, sixteen storage spaces 17 are occupied by insects from stages "1" to "12". From the fifth level onwards, the insects from stage "13" onwards occupy sixty-four (16 x 4 = 64) storage spaces 17, which is caused by the volume-related turnover in the ratio 1:4. In this numerical example, around 40 storage spaces 17 remain unoccupied, which are represented by stage "0" in Fig. 10.

[0165] It is understood that the insects can "meander" from top to bottom, from bottom to top, from left to right or from right to left through an arrangement of shelf channels 14, which is advantageous for the distribution and implementation of the climate zones, which are preferably defined by (easily convertible) partition walls.

[0166] Furthermore, it is understood that the roller bars 54 can be used to minimize the thrust forces in the channel 14. Blocking rollers 55 can massively increase these thrust forces. Therefore, the functionality of the rollers 55 should always be maintained.

[0167] The containers 33 contain young to adult larvae (e.g. mealworm or black soldier fly or similar) with food and excretions. The skins of the larvae in particular are very volatile and settle as dust on the channels 14. The above-mentioned dust can become trapped in the roller rails 54 in particular. On the one hand a) inside a top-hat rail on its base and b) on the upper side of the rail rim or in spokes of the laterally open rollers 55. Case a) consequently leads to a roller 55 becoming completely stuck and grinding flat on the upper side, which continues to increase the friction forces (until the roller fails). Case b) ensures that the sliding point (axle in the roller) is impaired. This can also lead to the roller failing.

[0168] Therefore, cleaning machines (not shown) can be used which, for example, can be pushed through the channels 14 instead of a stack 16. The cleaning machines are preferably designed with the dimensions of a stack 16. The cleaning machines are pushed through the channels 14 with the container stacks 16 during normal operation and, in doing so, automatically clean the roller strips 54. Preferably, one to n (here 4) of these machines can be brought from a manual cleaning station (for these cleaning machines) via the conveyor system 32 to the storage machine 18 of the shelf channel block 12 in which a channel 14 is to be cleaned, and can then be pushed into the channel 14, for example as the first "container stack" per shift.

[0169] The cleaning machine can be transported on the conveyor system 32 like a container 33 or like a container stack 16 (e.g., the same floor structure and external dimensions (floor length, width, length, width, and height). The cleaning machine is stable so that it can be pushed through the channel 14 just like the stacks 16. The cleaning machine can be operated electrically independently. A battery power can be designed so that the entire channel 14 can be cleaned. A residence time in a channel 14 is, for example, 16 hours.

[0170] Since the expected contamination consists of dry substances, a blowing and suction device (BSV) is the preferred cleaning principle. One BSV could also be used per cleaning machine, or one per roller bar. The cleaning machine can include a vacuum cleaner (VAG). The vacuum cleaner (VAG) is a unit that can suck and blow simultaneously. The hoses to the injection and suction nozzles are laid out so that they can operate centrally and across the full width of the roller bars 54. The air should flow from the injection point (between the rollers) into the top-hat rail of the roller bar 54 and continue along the rail until it reaches the suction point. Care should be taken to ensure good airflow, as this airflow is undesirable outside the rail (it could even swirl and circulate further particles from the stack 16 below).It is advantageous if the blowing device in particular is swivelled irregularly by a mechanical device so that the blowing direction changes again and again.

[0171] The dwell time in channel 14 is, for example, 16 hours. The vacuuming could be triggered by a sensor connected to an internal, battery-powered controller. If the sensor detects a level change (roller or no roll), the controller can start the vacuuming process. This process is terminated after a fixed time (e.g., after 1 minute). A channel typically has 50 spaces. The cleaning machine could be closed at the top to prevent any unwanted airflow.

[0172] The heat generated in the cleaning machine can be cooled via the environment (especially the top-hat rails). The existing crossflow 42, which serves to cool the larvae, can also be used to cool the cleaning machine. For this purpose, horizontal openings and cooling fins can be provided inside the cleaning machine. The housing of the cleaning machine should be made of plastic to meet the requirements of the conveyor system 32 and the additional stacked containers 33. For stability reasons and to secure the internal components, a metal brace can be integrated into the interior.

[0173] List of reference symbols:

[0174] 10 (Insect rearing) system

[0175] 12 shelf channel block

[0176] 14 Shelf storage channel

[0177] 16 elevator container stacks

[0178] 17 storage space

[0179] 18 storage machine

[0180] 20 lifters

[0181] 22 load handling attachments (LAM) from 18

[0182] 23 Platform

[0183] 24 (Stacking) push unit

[0184] 26 retrieval machine 28 LAM of 26

[0185] 30 (Stack) pulling unit

[0186] 32 Conveyor technology

[0187] 33 rearing containers

[0188] 34 (Conveyor technology) interface

[0189] 36 Stack forming device

[0190] 38 destacking device

[0191] 40 feeding device

[0192] 42 (Cross) ventilation

[0193] 44 Ventilation pipe

[0194] 46 (Maintenance) gear

[0195] 47 leaders

[0196] 48 shelf posts

[0197] 50 (shelf) cross beams

[0198] 52 (shelf) longitudinal beams

[0199] 54 roller bar

[0200] 55 roll of 54

[0201] 56 floor of 33

[0202] 58 Side wall, long

[0203] 60 side wall, short

[0204] 62 Corner elevation

[0205] 64 Opening, side

[0206] 66 Opening, side

[0207] 68 sponsors on 22

[0208] 70 alignment unit

[0209] 72 Push shield

[0210] 74 thrust cylinders

[0211] 76 Support element

[0212] 78 roll of 76

[0213] 80 insertion aid

[0214] 82 Side guide

[0215] 84 Backstop

[0216] 86 Telescopic arm

[0217] 88 pulling fingers

[0218] 90 Braking section 92 Separation area

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Insect rearing system (10) for the industrial automated rearing of insects, comprising: a shelf channel block (12) formed from a plurality of shelf storage channels (14) arranged in a height direction (Y) and in a transverse direction (Z), preferably without spacing, each of the shelf storage channels (14) being adapted to receive a plurality of rearing container stacks (16) one behind the other in a longitudinal direction (X);a storage machine (18) which is arranged at a first longitudinal end of the shelf channel block (12) and which has a, preferably exclusively, height-adjustable load-handling means, LAM, (22), which comprises: at least one stack pushing unit (24), which is preferably mounted displaceably in the transverse direction (Z), which is designed to push at least one stack (16) to be stored from the LAM (22) in the longitudinal direction (X) into one of the shelf storage channels (14) and, in the meantime, to push already stored stacks (16) further within the corresponding shelf storage channel (16) in the longitudinal direction (X);and a retrieval machine (26) arranged at a second opposite longitudinal end of the shelf channel block (12) and having a preferably exclusively height-adjustable LAM (28), comprising: at least one stack pulling unit (30), preferably mounted displaceably in the transverse direction (Z), which is configured to pull at least one stack (16) to be retrieved in the longitudinal direction (X) from a corresponding shelf storage channel (14) onto the LAM (28); wherein each of the stacks (16) is formed by a plurality of vertically stacked rearing containers (33), each of which is filled with insect larvae.; 2. Insect rearing system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the LAM (22) of the storage machine (18) has as many stacking pusher units (24) which in particular are arranged stationary, next to one another in the transverse direction (Z), just as the shelf channel block (12) has shelf storage channels (14) next to one another in the transverse direction (Z).

3. Insect rearing system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the LAM (22) of the storage machine (18) further comprises: at least one conveyor (68) which extends in the transverse direction (Z) and which conveys the stack(s) (16) to be stored in the transverse direction (Z) in front of the shelf storage channel(s) (14) in which the respective stack (16) is to be stored.

4. Insect rearing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the LAM (22) of the storage machine (18) further comprises: at least one stack alignment unit (70) which is configured to align the stack (16) to be stored in the transverse direction (Z) relative to the respective shelf storage channel (14) in which the stack (16) is to be stored.

5. Insect rearing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the LAM (22) of the storage machine (18) further comprises at least one support element (76) which is configured to introduce shear reaction forces caused by the at least one stack-push unit (24) during insertion from the LAM (22) into the shelf channel block (12).

6. Insect rearing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the LAM (22) of the storage machine (18) comprises a plurality of stack pushing units (24) in the transverse direction (Z) next to one another and wherein the LAM (28) of the retrieval machine (26) comprises a corresponding plurality of stack pulling units (30) in the transverse direction (Z) next to one another.

7. Insect rearing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the stacks (16) are stored without load carriers in the shelf storage channels (14) and are handled within the system (10).

8. Insect rearing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein each of the shelf storage channels (14) has an identical stack storage capacity, and wherein each of the shelf storage channels (14) is arranged to receive at least 10, 20, 30 or 40 of the stacks (16) in the longitudinal direction (X) one behind the other.

9. Insect rearing system (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a conveyor system (32) which is coupled to the storage machine (18) and to the retrieval machine (26) with regard to a material flow (MF), wherein the conveyor system (32) preferably circumferentially surrounds the storage machine (18), the retrieval machine (26) and the shelf channel block (12).

10. Insect rearing system (10) according to claim 9, further comprising a stacking device (36) and / or a destacking device (38).

11. A method for operating a shelf channel block (12) which is designed for the industrial automated breeding of insects and which has a plurality of shelf storage channels (14) one above the other and / or next to one another, wherein each of the storage channels (14) is designed to buffer a plurality of insect breeding containers (33) in the longitudinal direction (X) of the shelf channel block (12) in storage locations (17) arranged one behind the other, the method comprising the steps of: a) automated initial filling (S10) of one of the breeding containers (33) with young insects of an initial growth stage and with food;b) automated storage (S12) of the filled rearing container (33) by moving it into one of the storage channels (14) on the input side, which is linked to a current growth stage of the rearing container (33) to be stored and which is not completely filled, in particular by pushing it in such a way that rearing containers (33) already stored in the respective storage channel (14) move one of the storage locations (17) further in the longitudinal direction (X) in the respective storage channel (14); c) automated removal (S15) of one of the stored rearing containers (33) from the respective storage channel (14) on the output side, when: i) a fattening cycle linked to one of the stored rearing containers (33) has expired (S14), whereby the current growth stage has changed by one; growth stage counter unit is increased, and ii) one of the stored rearing containers (33) is positioned on a last one of the storage locations (17) of the respective storage channel (33) (S16); d) determining (S24) whether the current growth stage of the outsourced rearing container (33) has reached a harvest stage, wherein the harvest stage corresponds to a maximum growth stage counter to be reached; e1) if the harvest stage of the outsourced rearing container (33) is reached, harvesting (S20) the correspondingly aged insects by automatically emptying the outsourced rearing container (33) and returning to step a); or e2) if the harvest stage of the outsourced rearing container (33) has not yet been reached, automatically refilling (S22) the outsourced rearing container (33) with feed and re-storing it according to step b).

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: initially filling the shelf channel block (12) with empty breeding containers (33) such that each of the storage locations (17) is occupied by one of the breeding containers (33).

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein in step e2) the insects of the removed rearing container (33) are distributed, after reaching a predetermined growth stage which is prior to the harvest stage, and before being refilled with feed, to a predetermined insect growth-specific number of empty rearing containers (33), which are then re-stored according to step b).

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising: initially linking the storage channels (14) to one or more of the Growth stages; wherein in particular the storage channel(s) (14) of a top / bottom storage level are linked to the initial growth stage, the storage channel(s) (14) of a bottom / top storage level are linked to the harvest stage, and the storage channel(s) (14) between the top / bottom and bottom / top storage level are linked to a growth stage that increases / decreases level by level.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein each of the storage channels (14) is operated: on the input side by a pusher unit (24) which is designed to push a rearing container (33) to be stored into the corresponding Storage channel (14) so ​​that at the same time already stored breeding containers (33) are pushed further in the longitudinal direction (X) within the corresponding storage channel (14), and opposite on the output side by a receiving unit, in particular by a pulling unit (30), which is set up to receive a breeding container (33) to be retrieved in the longitudinal direction (X) from a last of the storage locations (17) of the corresponding storage channel (14).

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