SHELL CONTAINERS AND CORRESPONDING HANGING SUPPORTS

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a container (1, 1') for shellfish cultivation comprising a mesh (11, 11') shaped to form a receiving space (12) for said shellfish. According to the invention, the container 1 carries a rotation axis (105) of said container (1, 1'). The invention also relates to a suspension support (2, 2', 2'') configured to receive and hold said containers (1, 1'). Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: SHELL CONTAINERS AND CORRESPONDING HANGING SUPPORTS Disclosure area

[0001] The field of disclosure is that of the farming of seafood products which can be raised in raised or suspended conditions. The invention relates to all types of marine cultures and more particularly to fish farming and therefore to the cultivation, farming and finishing of oysters.

[0002] More particularly, the disclosure relates to equipment for farming products from marine aquaculture cultures, whether they take place on the public maritime domain or in a private environment. Prior art

[0003] The most commonly used oyster farming method in France and Europe is called the "raising" method. This method consists of placing horizontal metal tables on the foreshore and then placing the oysters in bags placed approximately horizontally on the tables.

[0004] Although these tables have a relatively low manufacturing cost and adapt relatively easily to all types of terrain, their lifespan does not exceed 8 to 10 years. Another disadvantage of these tables is that they are relatively low, forcing the user to adopt a very uncomfortable and traumatic position to: detach / attach the pockets, lift and turn the pockets, and load / unload the pockets onto a trailer or boat.

[0005] Furthermore, this method uses conventional, generally flat bags made of plastic. As is known, these bags can have mesh sizes of different dimensions to adapt to the growth of the oysters. These bags are arranged substantially horizontally on tables and are fixed to the latter by fixing elastics, also made of plastic.

[0006] These bags are well known and widely used for their low cost and their ability to be easily crushed to facilitate their empty storage on land. However, these conventional bags have the disadvantage of only being able to be placed horizontally. In addition, these flat bags have a restricted internal volume preventing movement of the oysters in the bag. This leads to a meshing of the oysters in the bag requiring frequent shaking / stirring and turning of the bags. These maneuvers are traumatic for the operator and relatively time-consuming while working time at sea is limited, particularly by the tides.

[0007] As previously indicated, the fixing of flat pockets on tables uses fixing elastics which are in the form of a continuous elastic band, for example. These bands allow relatively rapid attachment and detachment of the pockets and at a relatively low cost, even if this cost is increasingly high.

[0008] A disadvantage of this fixing solution lies in the fact that these fixing elastics are relatively fragile, particularly to cuts and ultraviolet rays. Thus, pockets are regularly lost, carried away during the tides, when fixing elastics break. In addition, even when these elastics do not break accidentally or suddenly, their lifespan is relatively short, which requires the user to regularly replace these elastics on the tables placed at sea. As indicated previously, this type of maneuver is relatively time-consuming while the working time at sea is limited.

[0009] To solve at least some of these drawbacks, another solution has been developed and consists of implementing rigid plastic baskets comprising clips which allow the baskets to be fixed to fixed axes carried by the table. In other words, the basket suspension tables comprise a row of fixed axes, preferably made of stainless steel, on which the rigid baskets are hung. This solution is commonly known as “Australian” baskets.

[0010] These rigid baskets fixed on fixed axes carried by the table allow an automatic / natural rotation of the baskets with the tides and waves so as to shake / stir the oysters in the baskets and thus avoid manual handling of the baskets for these operations.

[0011] However, this solution has many disadvantages. First of all, in order to obtain satisfactory oyster production results, the number of oysters is significantly reduced compared to conventional techniques and requires compliance with a strict and restrictive oyster production method. Indeed, this solution requires a low density of oysters in the baskets, of the order of 50 to 60 oysters maximum per basket, which represents a reduction in density of more than 50% compared to the conventional technique of traditional bags (also known as flat bags). This solution therefore results in a significant drop in productivity for the producer.

[0012] In addition, with this solution, the mixing of the baskets can be very violent, especially during storms. This excessive mixing leads to a high mortality rate of oysters as well as an overly whitened exterior appearance that can surprise and displease consumers.

[0013] Another disadvantage of this solution lies in the fact that the lifting operations are relatively difficult and restrictive. Indeed, the fixing clips of the Baskets on the table axles are relatively hard to move apart in order to extract them from their axles, especially when shells have become embedded on the clips or on the axle and therefore prevent them from being separated.

[0014] Another disadvantage of this solution lies in the fact that these baskets, which are substantially cubic in shape, have relatively large dimensions and therefore a large footprint compared to conventional flat baskets. These dimensions require a large number of trailers or boats when lifting the baskets, for a relatively low net weight of oysters lifted given the low density of oysters in each basket. This low density also results in a higher number of operations for emptying the baskets into the sorting machines to harvest an identical number of oysters.

[0015] Furthermore, it should be noted that these rigid baskets have the same bulk when empty and in use. Consequently, their storage on land requires significant space and handling resources. Similarly, the sea parks must be extended to produce the same number of oysters as the conventional flat basket technique, or else production must be reduced, which is not satisfactory.

[0016] Finally, this solution also has the disadvantage of using many different materials to manufacture the baskets and tables, with different lifespans and recycling possibilities, which generates a significant environmental impact.

[0017] Another technique, commonly known as "roll-bag" (for "roll-bag" in English), also uses rigid baskets which have substantially the same drawbacks as the Australian basket technique. In particular, these rigid baskets are large and are therefore difficult to handle and store. They are also made of different materials, particularly plastic, which makes them difficult to recycle.

[0018] To summarize, the known techniques described above are not satisfactory. There is therefore a need to provide a new oyster farming solution which allows, according to at least some of the embodiments of the invention:

[0019] - to improve the quality of the product by optimizing the growth of oysters in terms of shape and size while increasing the meat content of the oyster; and / or

[0020] - to limit and facilitate the operations carried out by the operators so as to in particular to facilitate access to these professions for female staff in particular; and / or

[0021] - to produce oysters sustainably by increasing the lifespan of the ins offshore installations, to limit the use of plastic and rubber by replacing them with recyclable materials or those from sustainable and responsible exploitation. Disclosure Summary

[0022] The invention has been designed keeping these drawbacks of the prior art in mind. The invention relates more particularly to a container for the cultivation of shellfish comprising a mesh shaped so as to form a space for receiving said shellfish.

[0023] According to the present disclosure, the container carries an axis of rotation of said container.

[0024] Such a container constitutes a new and inventive solution in which a flexible bag or a rigid case directly integrates a suspension axis which allows the container to be placed / suspended on a suspension table. This suspension axis allows the container, on the one hand, to be reliably held on the suspension table, and on the other hand, to pivot relative to the suspension table, automatically / naturally according to the tides, without the intervention of an operator. Thus, manual shaking operations are no longer necessary since the shellfish (for example oysters) are shaken naturally during the tides thanks to the container of the invention.

[0025] According to a particular aspect, said axis of rotation is fixed on an outer surface of said mesh and said axis of rotation is offset relative to a plane comprising the center of gravity of said container.

[0026] Such an offset of the rotation axis of the container allows the container to rotate / pivot, relative to the suspension table, upwards and to always be replaced / descended by the same side. Thus, the rotation of the containers is better controlled, even in the event of storms. The mortality of shellfish is therefore significantly reduced.

[0027] According to a particular aspect, the container is in the form of an oyster bag comprising a flexible envelope forming said mesh as well as a frame, said frame carrying said suspension axis and a hanger, said hanger being arranged inside said flexible envelope and being configured to conform the flexible envelope so as to form said space for receiving said shellfish within the flexible envelope.

[0028] According to another particular aspect, said suspension axis comprises at least one circular rod forming the axis of rotation of the oyster bag, said at least one circular rod being offset relative to an outer edge of said flexible envelope.

[0029] Such an offset of the circular rods, that is to say of the axis of rotation of the bag, relative to the flexible envelope allows the bag to turn / pivot, relative to the suspension table, upwards and to always replace / descend by the same side. Thus, the rotation of the bags is better controlled, even in the event of storms. Oyster mortality is therefore significantly reduced.

[0030] According to yet another particular aspect, said hanger comprises a rectilinear base from which extends a U-shaped element whose lateral uprights are curved.

[0031] Such a hanger, in which the side uprights are curved, makes it possible to give a shape or volume to the flexible envelope of the oyster bag so as to provide a space for receiving the oysters. This receiving space, guaranteed by the curved uprights, allows free movement of the oysters in the bag, in particular during rotation of the oyster bag. Furthermore, these curved uprights are configured to still allow the flexible envelope to collapse to ensure optimal stacking and space-saving of the bags during storage on land.

[0032] According to another particular aspect, said frame is metallic and comprises means for fixing said suspension axis with said hanger, said flexible envelope being arranged between said suspension axis and said hanger.

[0033] According to yet another particular aspect, said metal frame is made of stainless steel.

[0034] The stainless steel used to manufacture the metal frame is a material particularly suited to the constraints of use at sea and therefore ensures a long service life for the oyster bag.

[0035] According to a particular aspect, the container is in the form of a rigid oyster box comprising a rigid envelope forming said mesh, said rigid box carrying, on an outer surface of said rigid envelope, said suspension axis.

[0036] According to another particular aspect, said container comprises at least one float fixed on at least one exterior surface of said mesh.

[0037] The implementation of a float allows the containers to rotate around the suspension axis in order to move the shellfish within the container, without human intervention. The float is preferably fixed to the outside of the mesh so as to allow the shellfish to roll freely inside the container. The float is preferably removable, so that it is possible to fix it or not on the container depending on the time of year in order to optimize the growth of the shellfish.

[0038] The present disclosure also relates to a suspension support comprising at least four feet arranged in at least two parallel rows and at least two upper bars extending substantially parallel, said upper bars each being carried by at least two feet of the same row, said upper bars comprising means for receiving and holding at least one container as described previously.

[0039] Such a suspension support, preferably in the form of a suspension table, constitutes a new and inventive solution for fixing containers capable of reliably holding the containers on the suspension table and of allowing controlled rotation of the containers relative to the suspension table, automatically / naturally according to the tides, without the intervention of a operator. Thus, manual shaking operations are no longer necessary since the shellfish are shaken naturally during the tides thanks to the invention.

[0040] According to a particular aspect, said upper bars are made of metal and said receiving means comprise at least one hook welded to each of said upper bars.

[0041] A hanging table comprising metal top bars is simple to implement and guarantees good durability of the table. In addition, the hooks intended to receive the suspension axes of the containers can be easily fixed by welding. This solution is therefore relatively simple to implement.

[0042] According to another particular aspect, said upper bars are made of wood and said receiving means comprise at least one hook fixed on each of said upper bars.

[0043] A hanging table comprising wooden upper bars is simple to implement and guarantees very good durability of the table. In addition, the hooks intended to receive the suspension axes of the containers can be easily fixed to it, by screwing for example. This solution is therefore relatively simple to implement.

[0044] According to yet another particular aspect, the suspension table comprises first reversible locking means for said containers with said receiving means.

[0045] These first reversible locking means make it possible to ensure reliable, even secure, support of the pocket, thus limiting the risks of losing pockets at sea, particularly during storms.

[0046] According to yet another particular aspect, said upper bars are made of plastic and said receiving means comprise at least one hook fixed on each of said upper bars.

[0047] A suspension table comprising plastic top bars is simple to implement and guarantees an optimal lifespan for the table. Preferably, the plastic is selected so that it is made from recycled plastic and is easily recyclable to limit its environmental impact. In addition, the hooks intended to receive the suspension axes of the pockets can be easily fixed there, by screwing for example. This solution is therefore relatively simple to implement.

[0048] According to a particular aspect, said at least two upper bars are each made up of two half-bars having corresponding slots / notches which, when the half-bars are assembled, form said means for receiving and holding at least one shell container.

[0049] This relatively simple technique to implement makes it possible to trap the container suspension axes between the two half-bars so as to ensure optimal and reliable support of the containers on the suspension table.

[0050] According to another particular aspect, the suspension table comprises second reversible locking means of said half-bars together when they are assembled and receive said containers.

[0051] This relatively simple technique to implement makes it possible to lock the half-bars together so as to prevent the unwanted removal, for example, of the oyster bags.

[0052] According to a particular aspect, the suspension table further comprises at least one crosspiece and / or at least one reinforcement bar, said crosspiece and / or at least one reinforcement bar being fixed between at least two legs at a distance from the upper end of the legs at least equal to the width of a container.

[0053] In this way, the rotation of the containers is not hindered by structural elements of the suspension support. In addition, the suspension axis and / or the central part of the containers is easily accessible to an operator or a machine so as to facilitate the lifting of the bags. List of Figures

[0054] The disclosure, as well as the various advantages it presents, will be more easily understood, in the light of the following description of several illustrative and non-limiting embodiments thereof, and of the appended drawings among which:

[0055] [Fig. 1] is a partially exploded and front view of a first embodiment of a container according to the disclosure, the container being in the form of a flexible pouch;

[0056] [Fig.2] is a top view of the pocket of [Fig.l];

[0057] [Fig.3] is a top view illustrating the frame of the pocket of [Fig.l];

[0058] [Fig.4] is an exploded and front view of the pocket frame of [Fig.l];

[0059] [Fig.5] is an exploded and side view of the pocket frame of [Fig.l];

[0060] [Fig.6] is a side view of the pocket of [Fig.l];

[0061] [Fig.7] is a perspective view of a suspension support according to a first embodiment of realization;

[0062] [Fig.8] is a top view of the suspension table of [Fig.7], showing also detailed views of the reception means in accordance with the invention;

[0063] [Fig.9] is a front view of a suspension table according to a second mode of realization ;

[0064] [Fig. 10a] is a detailed and sectional view of the fixing of the upper bars on the legs of the suspension table of [Fig.9];

[0065] [Fig. 10b] is a detailed and sectional view of the fixing of the upper bars between- them from the suspension table of [Fig.9];

[0066] [Fig. 11] is a side view of an example of a suspension table according to the invention, the containers being in a rest position;

[0067] [Fig. 12] is another side view of the hanging table of [Fig. 11] with containers in an inclined position;

[0068] [Fig. 13] is another side view of the hanging table of [Fig. 11] with containers in an inclined position;

[0069] [Fig. 14] is a side view of a suspension table according to a third embodiment. Detailed description

[0070] The general principle of the invention is based on the implementation of a shellfish container, for example in the form of a flexible bag or a rigid basket, carrying a fixed and individual rotation axis configured to cooperate with a suspension table. More particularly, the container comprises a frame, made for example of metal, plastic or a combination thereof, on which the rotation axis is fixed. For example, when the container is in the form of a flexible bag, the rotation axis is fixed to a hanger of the frame which makes it possible to give a curved shape to the bag so as to accommodate the oysters and allow their movement within the bag.

[0071] It is the implementation of the rotation axis on the container which allows automatic rotation movements of the latter, regardless of whether the container is flexible or rigid and regardless of its dimensions.

[0072] The present disclosure also relates to a suspension support, hereinafter called a suspension table, comprising means for receiving and locking the rotation axis carried by each of the containers on the suspension table while allowing the containers to pivot / rotate relative to the suspension table, and this according to the tides and waves so as to generate automatic, i.e. natural, shaking / stirring of the shell container.

[0073] Unlike the suspension tables known from the prior art solutions, the suspension support according to the disclosure does not have any high crossbar. In this way, the containers, and in particular their central part or their axis of rotation, are free and easy to access for operators or for machines during lifting operations, in particular.

[0074] Figures 1 to 6 illustrate a container 1 according to the invention for the cultivation of shellfish which, in this example, is in the form of an oyster bag 1.

[0075] [Fig.l] illustrates a partially exploded view of a pocket 1 according to the present disclosure. This pocket 1 has a frame 10 comprising a hanger 100 and an axis suspension 105. Preferably, the frame 10 is made of metal, and more preferably still of stainless steel so as to withstand marine stresses / conditions.

[0076] A flexible mesh envelope 11 is arranged on / over the frame 10 so as to form a volume, or space, 12 for receiving the oysters. The envelope 11, which therefore at least partially covers the frame 10, is preferably made of recycled and / or recyclable plastic. This material has a relatively low cost and high resistance to marine conditions. In addition, this material has been used for many years to manufacture oyster bags and has demonstrated that it is perfectly suited / compatible with oyster farming.

[0077] The dimensions of the mesh of the enclosure 11 are selected according to the growth, i.e. the size, of the oysters. Thus, the oyster bags must be successively changed throughout the growth of the oysters to adapt the dimensions of the mesh of the flexible enclosure 11 to the size of the oysters. Generally, the oyster bags are changed three times during the growth of the oysters.

[0078] The envelope 11 has, before its assembly with the frame 10, at least one of its two open ends. In other words, the envelope 11 is in the form of a tube open at least at one of its ends. Thus, to assemble the frame 10 with the envelope 11, it is sufficient to slide the hanger 100 into the envelope 11 and then to secure the suspension axis 105 (located outside the envelope 11 as illustrated in [Fig.l]) with the hanger 100. Thus, the flexible envelope 11 is pinched between the hanger 100 and the suspension axis 105.

[0079] In a variant, if the two ends of the envelope 11 are open, it is then necessary to close / condemn one of the ends so as to form the bottom of the envelope 11. This closure can be obtained by the use of UV-resistant clamping collars, or by gluing or welding, for example.

[0080] The open, or openable, end of the flexible envelope 11 has reversible closing means 111 of the flexible envelope 11. In the example illustrated, the flexible envelope 11 comprises hooks 112 mounted on an elastic band 113. More precisely, a first end of the elastic band 113 is secured to the outer wall of the envelope 11 while the other end of the elastic band carries a hook 112 intended to cooperate with a hole in the mesh of the flexible envelope 11 to allow the walls of the envelope 11 to be brought into contact at this open end and hermetically close the end of the envelope 11 (in the sense that the oysters cannot leave the receiving space 12 in an undesired manner). To facilitate the closing of the end of the flexible envelope 11, it may be envisaged to fold the open end of the flexible envelope 11 back on itself. to ensure that the oysters cannot escape unintentionally from the bag 1. In this example, the flexible envelope 11 comprises three closing hooks 112.

[0081] According to another embodiment not illustrated, the flexible envelope 11 may comprise a flap (not illustrated) provided with the elastics 113 and the hooks 112 described previously. In this way, it is possible to cover the open end of the envelope 11 with the flap and to maintain / lock the position of the flap on the opening of the envelope 11 thanks to the hooks 112 and the elastics 113. The flap makes it possible to hermetically close the end of the envelope 11 (in the sense that the oysters cannot leave the receiving space 12 in an undesired manner).

[0082] The frame 10 is illustrated in detail and in different views in FIGS. 3 to 5. As indicated previously, it comprises a hanger 100 and a suspension axis 105 which are secured together during the assembly of the pocket 1.

[0083] The hanger 100 comprises a substantially rectilinear base 101 which has, in this example, a section substantially in the shape of an arc of a circle (as illustrated in [Fig. 5]). This base 101 extends substantially over the entire length of the flexible envelope 11 when these elements are assembled (see [Fig. 1]). In this example, the base 101 has a length of approximately 65 cm. This arc of a circle shape of the section makes it possible to adapt to the shape of the pocket 1 at this location of the pocket 1 and to avoid pinching the flexible envelope 11, so as to limit the risks of tearing the latter.

[0084] From this base 101 extends a U-shaped element 102 (according to the front view of [Fig. 4]) whose ends of the U are integral with the base 101. In other words, this element 102 comprises a central upright 102a, extending substantially parallel to the base 101, having two ends from which two lateral uprights 102b, 102c extend substantially perpendicularly. The lateral uprights 102b, 102c therefore connect the central upright 102a to the base 101 and substantially form a square (according to the front view of the hanger illustrated in [Fig. 4]). In this example, the uprights 102a, 102b and 102c have a length of approximately 50 cm and the U-shaped element 102 is substantially centered relative to the base 101.

[0085] The lateral uprights 102b, 102c have an arched / curved profile (according to the side view of [Fig.5] in particular) which makes it possible to give its volume to the pocket 1 when the flexible envelope 11 is assembled with the hanger 100. It is therefore possible to choose / select the radius of curvature that is desired for the lateral uprights 102b, 102c in order to define the dimensions of the space 12 for receiving the oysters. In this example, the lateral uprights 102b, 102c are curved so as to obtain a curve of approximately 8 cm in height.

[0086] Such a hanger 100, arranged inside the flexible envelope 11, allows the bag 1 to always keep its “rack” shape, that is to say to keep a curved shape providing a space 12 for receiving the oysters, when it is loaded and closed. In addition, once the bag 1 is empty, it is possible to flatten / crush the openable side in order to allow the flexible envelope 11 to flatten / crush against the hanger 100. Thus, the entire bag 1 flattens against the hanger 100, so as to follow the shape of the hanger 100 and provide an optimized footprint. In this way, when the bags 1 are not used at sea, they can be stacked so as to have a limited footprint allowing a very significant saving of space when storing them on land.

[0087] The suspension axis 105 has a central portion 106 which is substantially rectilinear and which has a section in the shape of an arc of a circle (as illustrated in [Fig.5]) corresponding to the base 101. This central portion 106 is substantially identical to the base 101, and therefore has substantially the same length as the base 101 (i.e. approximately 65 cm in the example illustrated). The central portion 106 and the base 101 have a substantially U-shape.

[0088] The central portion 106 carries, at each of its ends, a circular rod 107a, 107b forming the axis of rotation 105 of the pocket 1. More precisely, in the example illustrated, the circular rods 107a, 107b are fixed at the ends, on the upper surface of the central portion 106 (i.e. the surface opposite the interior of the pocket 1). In this example, the circular rods 107a, 107b have a length of approximately 30 cm and protrude by approximately 23 cm relative to the central portion 106.

[0089] As illustrated in [Fig.5], the circular rods 107a, 107b preferably extend in an offset axis parallel to the axis of the central portion 106. This offset, that is to say the fact that the axis of the circular rods 107a, 107 is eccentric / offset allows the bag 1 to rotate / pivot, relative to the suspension table, upwards and to always replace itself by the same side. Thus, the rotation of the bags is better controlled / controlled even in the event of storms. Oyster mortality is therefore significantly reduced.

[0090] Preferably, the circular rods 107a, 107b are welded to the central portion 106. Other methods of securing can nevertheless be envisaged, such as screwing or riveting for example. It could also be envisaged to manufacture this assembly by a very resistant plastic molding, in which the central portion 106 would receive and hold the circular rods 107a and 107b, made of stainless steel, forming the axis of rotation 107. In another variant, the axis of rotation 107 could itself be made of plastic, with for example a system for attaching the container 1 to the suspension support which would be different.

[0091] In yet another variant not illustrated, it could be envisaged to provide only a single circular rod whose length would be substantially identical to the sum of the lengths of the circular rods 107a, 107b and of the central portion 106. This single rod, forming the axis of rotation 107, could be fixed on the central portion 106 in accordance with the description above. Such an implementation could for example be particularly suitable for containers 1 of larger dimensions or greater thickness, which would be authorized in certain growing regions.

[0092] Unlike the techniques described in relation to the prior art, the axis of rotation formed by the suspension axis 105 is therefore here fixed to the pocket (and not to the table). Preferably, this axis is slightly offset relative to the outer surface of the pocket 1, which allows the pocket 1 to always descend on the same side when the sea ebbs. In this way, the pocket 1 rotates on an axis integrated into the pocket, or carried by the pocket. Obviously, the implementation of this axis does not hinder the filling and emptying of the pocket 1.

[0093] The hanger 100 and the suspension axis 105 are secured in this example by reversible fixing means 108 so as to facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the casing 11 with the metal frame 10 as well as the replacement of the flexible casing 11 during the growth of the oysters, for example. In this example, the fixing means 108 are in the form of holes 108a provided in the central portion 106 of the suspension axis 105 and the base 101 of the hanger 100. These holes 108a are intended to cooperate with screws and nuts (conventional nuts or lock nuts) for fixing 108b. In this example, the central portion 106 of the suspension axle 105 and the base 101 of the hanger 100 have three holes 108a cooperating with three pairs of fixing screws and nuts 108b. They are, in this example, located in the center of the central portion 106 and approximately 2 cm from the ends of the central portion 106.

[0094] The circular rods 107a, 107b also carry thrust washers 109 which make it possible to maintain the position of the pocket 1 relative to the suspension table (described in the remainder of this description). Thus, these thrust washers 109 allow optimal centering of the pocket 1 and prevent it from moving in translation relative to the suspension table, even in the event of storms for example. These thrust washers 109 are for example welded onto the circular rods 107a, 107b, at a determined distance from the free end of the circular rods 107a, 107b to allow optimal centering. In this example, the thrust washers 109 are welded approximately 7.5 cm from the free end.

[0095] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 6, the oyster bag 1 carries at least one float 13. Preferably, the float(s) 13 are arranged on the same face so as to ensure rotation and descent of the bag 1 always in the same direction / of the same side. In this example, the pocket 1 carries only one float 13 extending substantially over a length identical to the hanger 100, as visible in [Fig.l].

[0096] Preferably, the float 13 is located on the lower half of the pocket 1 (according to the view of [Fig.l]), that is to say as close as possible to the ground or opposite the suspension axis 105. This makes it possible to ensure optimal rotation of the pocket 1 during tides.

[0097] More preferably, the float 13 is fixed on the outer surface of the flexible envelope 11 of the bag 1, and preferably on the side of the hanger 100, so as to allow the oysters to roll freely inside the bag 1.

[0098] In this example, the float 13 is fixed to the outside of the envelope 11 by a hook mechanism 131 and elastic straps 132. This mechanism makes it possible to simply and reliably fix the float 13 to the envelope 11. Nevertheless, it is obviously understood that other solutions can be envisaged for fixing the float 13, without departing from the general principle of the invention.

[0099] The float 13 is preferably removable, so that it is possible to fix it or not on the bag 1 depending on the time of year in order to optimize the growth of the shellfish. Thus, when the sea rises or falls, the float 13 rotates the bag 1 around its suspension axis 105. This rotation of the bag 1 therefore makes it possible to move the oysters, without human intervention, twice a day during periods of high water in the breeding parks and every day in the fattening parks located further ashore.

[0100] Thus, the oyster bag 1 according to the invention makes it possible to no longer have to manually shake / turn the oyster bags 1, unlike the technique traditionally used.

[0101] Preferably, the oyster bag 1 of the invention has dimensions that comply with the regulations in force, that is to say that the oyster bags of the invention fall within the framework imposed by the maritime structures diagram. More precisely, the diagram of the structures of marine culture farms in the Manche department (France) stipulates that the bags must comply with the following dimensions: 1 mx 0.50 x 0.20 or 0.1 m3. Other dimensions are possible / authorized, provided that the volume indicated above is respected. It should be noted that the diagram of the structures of marine culture farms in Loire-Atlantique only has one indication, namely “1 meter type bag”.

[0102] More particularly, the bag 1 has, in this example, a length of approximately 93 cm and a width of approximately 50 cm. The thickness of the bag, in its center or at its greatest thickness, is between 12 and 16 cm once the bag 1 is assembled. These preferred dimensions allow these bags to remain relatively easy to handle, with a shape allowing the oysters to be rolled inside. In other words, the bag must keep a shape that is substantially rectangular.

[0103] Preferably, the pocket 1 has a length of between 70 cm and 120 cm, a width of between 40 and 70 cm and a thickness of between 12 and 40 cm.

[0104] According to another example, pocket 1, having a float (described below) could have a length of 0.70 m, a width of 0.40 m and a thickness of 0.35 m, i.e. a volume of approximately 0.1 m3 corresponding to the diagram of the structures of the Channel.

[0105] Such a bag 1 makes it possible, for fattening oysters, to cultivate with a density of between approximately 120 and 130 units per bag 1. For breeding (up to a so-called “marketable” stage), the density is between 180 and 220 units per bag 1. Finally, for breeding (up to a so-called “half-breeding” stage), the density is between 350 and 400 units per bag 1.

[0106] It should be noted that the envelope 11 has, for example, before assembly with the frame 10, a length of approximately 115 cm and a width of approximately 53 cm.

[0107] It is obviously understood that other pocket dimensions can be envisaged, in particular in the event of modification of the regulations in force and differences in regulations depending on the country, without however departing from the general principle of the invention.

[0108] Thanks to these dimensions, the bag 1 according to the disclosure makes it possible to maintain a yield at least as high as with bags according to the traditional technique, while significantly improving the shape and quality of the oysters. The bag of the present disclosure also makes it possible to significantly reduce the arduousness of the shaking work since the bag rotates automatically / naturally thanks to the tides.

[0109] Furthermore, the bag 1 in accordance with the disclosure is suitable for all stages of use of traditional oyster bags, i.e. filling / emptying and placement on storage areas while awaiting sorting of the oysters, for example.

[0110] Furthermore, the bag 1 in accordance with the disclosure allows, depending on the size of the mesh used, the breeding of oysters throughout the cycle, i.e. from spat to refining. [YES] According to another example, illustrated in [Fig. 13], the container 1' is in the form of a rigid box, or rigid basket, for example made of plastic. Such a rigid box 1' has a mesh 11' which in this example is in the form of a rigid envelope 11'. The use of a frame, made of metal or plastic, is optional but can help to optimize the lifespan of the box.

[0112] Such a rigid case 1' may also directly carry a rotation axis 105 as described previously. The rigid case 1' may also carry a float 13 as described previously. The rotation axis 105 and the float 13 have the same structures, characteristics and advantages as those presented in relation to the flexible bag 1 described previously and are therefore not described again.

[0113] It is therefore understood that the general principle of the invention is therefore applicable to different types of containers 1,1', whether flexible or rigid and with varied dimensions, adapted to the cultivation of shellfish in particular.

[0114] The invention also relates to a suspension support 2, hereinafter called suspension table 2, which is configured to receive and hold in position a plurality of containers 1, 1' such as the flexible bag 1 or the rigid rack 1' described previously. The suspension table 2 is also configured to allow the suspension axis 105 of the containers 1, 1' to pivot relative to the table 2, so as to allow an automatic / natural rotational movement of the container 1, 1' relative to the suspension table 2 during tides, in particular. To do this, the suspension table 2 does not have a transverse bar in the vicinity of the containers 1, 1' suspended on the suspension table 2 which could prevent / hinder the rotation of the containers 1, 1'.Furthermore, the absence of these transverse bars, generally positioned at the same level as the upper bars 22 described in more detail in the remainder of this description, makes it easier to lift manually by an operator, or possibly to lift mechanically by a machine, since the rotation axes 105 and / or the center of the containers 1 are easily accessible.

[0115] A first example of a suspension table 2 is illustrated in Figures 7 and 8. A suspension table 2 according to the disclosure comprises at least four legs 21 arranged in at least two parallel lines, or rows, 211a, 211b. In the illustrated example, the suspension table 2 comprises six legs arranged in two rows of three legs 21 spaced evenly apart in each row.

[0116] In this example, and to optimize the stability of the suspension table 2, the six legs 21 are arranged in three pairs of legs 21. The legs 21 of the same pair are connected by a crosspiece 26 thus forming a U whose base on the ground (formed by the crosspiece 26) is preferably less wide (for example 30 cm) than the spacing between the free end of the legs 21 of the same pair of legs. Preferably, the free end of the legs 21 of the same pair are spaced apart by a distance of approximately 97 to 100 cm. Thus, the suspension table 2 has a flared shape allowing the tables 2 to be stacked during storage on the ground, so as to limit their bulk, in particular.

[0117] In order to guarantee optimal stability and lifespan of the suspension table 2, which, it should be remembered, is intended to be placed on the seabed, reinforcement bars 25 can be used to connect the legs 21 of the same row 21 1a, 211 in order to avoid any swinging of the suspension table 2 at sea.

[0118] Preferably, and in order to ensure optimal placement, rotation, and removal of the containers 1, 1' on the suspension table 2, the reinforcement bars 25 are arranged at a distance from the upper end of the feet 21 at least equal to the width 1g (visible in [Fig.6]) of a container 1, 1' and in particular of an oyster bag 1 or a rigid basket 1' as described previously. This distance ensures that the container 1,1' can pivot freely relative to the suspension table 2 and makes it easier to lift the containers 1,1', for example using a lifting machine (not described).

[0119] The legs 21 carry, at their upper end, upper bars, or joists, 22. More precisely, each row 211a, 211b of legs 21 carries an upper bar 22. Thus, the suspension table 2 has, in this example, two upper bars 22 extending parallel.

[0120] The upper bars 22 comprise means 23 for receiving at least one container 1, 1' on the suspension table 2. More specifically, the upper bars 22 comprise a plurality of receiving means 23 preferably arranged with a constant / regular spacing along each upper bar 22. The receiving means 23 are arranged at corresponding positions on each of the upper bars 22 so that the receiving means 23 are arranged facing each other on the upper bars 22 and form pairs of receiving means 23. Thus, each pair of receiving means 23 can receive and hold in position a container 1. The receiving means 23 are more specifically configured to receive the suspension axis 105 of a container 1, 1' while allowing rotation of the suspension axis 105 within the receiving means 23.

[0121] The implementation of receiving means 23 of the suspension axis 105 of the container 1, 1' makes it possible to easily fix, at sea, the oyster containers 1, 1' without using the elastic or rubber bands used in at least some of the techniques of the prior art. These receiving means 23 also make it possible to eliminate or at least limit the risks of loss of the containers 1, 1' at sea.

[0122] In the example illustrated in [Fig.8], the receiving means 23 are in the form of hooks 231 in the shape of a lying U which are fixed to the upper bars 22. Preferably, the hooks are made of metal, and even more preferably of stainless steel. In this example, each upper bar 22 carries eight hooks 231 welded and spaced approximately 55 cm apart along the upper bar 22. Thus, the illustrated suspension table 2 is capable of supporting eight containers 1, 1' spaced approximately 55 cm apart. Preferably, the containers 1, 1' located at the end of the suspension table 2 are separated from the containers 1, 1' of the next suspension table 2 by approximately 57 cm.

[0123] Preferably, the hooks 231 are all oriented in the same direction (the same direction) in order to allow mechanization / automation of the installation / loading and uninstallation / unloading of the containers 1, 1' on the suspension table 2.

[0124] The suspension table 2 also comprises first locking means 24 for locking the support axis 105 in the locking means 23 in order to prevent the container 1, 1' from being removed involuntarily or undesirably from the suspension table 2.

[0125] In this example, the first reversible locking means 24 are in the form of a bore 241 made through the hook 231 and a pin 242, preferably made of stainless steel, configured to cooperate with said bore 241. Preferably, the hooks 231 are welded in a manner slightly offset from the longitudinal axis of the upper bar 22 in order to ensure easy insertion of the pin 242 into the bore, that is to say without being hindered by the upper bar 22, in particular. This relatively simple technique to implement makes it possible to reliably hold the container 1, 1' on the suspension table 2. Reversible locking means are understood to mean locking means which can be moved at least between a locked position and an unlocked position.

[0126] In a variant not illustrated, it could be envisaged to replace the pin 242 with a padlock or any other secure locking device which would prevent any theft of the container, for example.

[0127] To install the oyster containers 1, 1' on the suspension table 2, it is therefore sufficient:

[0128] - to place the container 1, 1', by its suspension axis 105, on the bars su upper 22 of the suspension table 2,

[0129] - to move the suspension axis 105 of the container 1, 1' into the bottom of the hooks 231, and

[0130] - to put in place the locking pins 242 at the level of the hooks 231 of the two upper bars 22.

[0131] In the variants described in the remainder of the description, unless otherwise indicated, identical elements bear the same reference numbers and have the same technical characteristics and operating modes.

[0132] [Fig. 14] illustrates another example of a 2” suspension support also in the form of a suspension table. As before, this 2” suspension table comprises four legs 21 arranged in two rows, 211a, 211b parallel and spaced evenly apart in each row.

[0133] Preferably, and as illustrated, the feet 21 are inclined. Thus, the suspension table 2'' has a flared shape allowing stacking of the tables 2 during storage on the ground, so as to limit their bulk, in particular. In addition, the angle of inclination of the feet 21 is selected to obtain an offset of approximately 26 cm relative to the vertical of the end of the upper bars 22 in order to allow optimal and easy positioning of the next / adjacent table of the feet-to-feet type. This particular inclination makes it possible to directly obtain the desired distance of approximately 55 cm between the receiving means 23 of the rotation axes 105 of the containers 1, 1' of two adjacent tables.

[0134] In this example, the suspension table 2'' is adapted to receive four containers 1. This allows the containers to be easily handled by a single operator.

[0135] The suspension tables 2, 2” illustrated in Figures 7, 8 and 14 are for example made of metal, and preferably iron. In other words, the legs 21, the upper bars 22, the reinforcement bars 25 and the crosspieces 26 are made of iron and are welded together. Such a suspension table 2, 2” made entirely of metal is adaptable to all types of terrain, that is to say it can be installed on soft ground, such as sand or mud, and on hard ground, such as on rocky ground, for example. This suspension table 2, 2'' can for example be fixed to the ground in the same way as traditional tables, that is to say by iron stakes having substantially a “1” (one) or “L” shape. This shape of the stakes makes it possible to avoid using rubber to fix the stakes to the legs 21 of the suspension table 2.To do this, the inside angle / corner of the “1” or “L” is positioned at the junctions between the legs 21 and the crosspieces 26 or the reinforcement bars 25.

[0136] It should be noted that such a suspension table 2 is easily handled when installed on parks. Indeed, it has a lower weight than the tables traditionally used, thus making the work of the operators less physically difficult.

[0137] In a variant not illustrated, the suspension table 2, 2” is made of wood and iron. More specifically, such a suspension table 2, 2” comprises legs 21, in the form of wooden piles, driven into the ground at regular spacing and in at least two rows 21 1a, 21 1b, in accordance with the description above.

[0138] More particularly, the wood used is preferably an exotic rot-proof wood known for its longevity in a marine environment. The wooden feet 21 are preferably implanted vertically in the substrate and adjusted in height (for example between 0.90 m and 1.40 m) according to the parks and the tidal coefficients of these parks.

[0139] For example, the two rows 21 la, 211b of feet 21 are spaced approximately 1 m apart and the feet of the same row 21 la, 211b are spaced approximately 1.10 m apart.

[0140] In a manner identical to the embodiment previously described, upper iron bars 22 are fixed (for example by bolting) to the free end of the feet 21 and carry means 23 for receiving the suspension axis 105 of the oyster containers 1.

[0141] For example, the receiving means 23 may be presented, as previously, in the form of hooks 231 in a U-shaped position welded onto the upper bars 22. First locking means 24 (for example identical to the holes 241 and the pins 242) may also be implemented. In this alternatively, the reinforcement bars 25 and the crosspieces 26 are optional.

[0142] Such a 2.2” suspension table, combining wooden legs 21 and iron upper bars 22, is particularly suitable for installation on soft soils, such as sand or mud, for example. Indeed, such wooden legs can only be planted in soils containing little or no rock. Cultivation parks implemented on soils consisting mainly of rock will therefore not be able to accommodate this type of table.

[0143] In another variant not illustrated, it is possible to replace the upper iron bars 22 with upper wooden bars 22. In this way, the suspension table 2, 2” comprises legs 21, in the form of wooden stakes, driven into the ground at regular spacing and in at least two rows 211a, 211b, in accordance with the description above. In a manner identical to the embodiment previously described, upper bars 22 (this time made of wood) are fixed to the free end of the legs 21 and carry means 23 for receiving the suspension axis 105 of the oyster containers 1, 1'. For example, the receiving means 23 may be in the form of hooks 231 in a lying U (made of stainless steel for example) fixed by screwing onto the upper bars 22. First locking means 24 (for example identical to the holes 241 and the pins 242) may also be implemented.In this variant, the reinforcement bars 25 and the crosspieces 26 are also optional.

[0144] As before, the wood used is preferably an exotic rot-proof wood known for its longevity in a marine environment. Such a 2.2” suspension table, made entirely of wood, is particularly suitable for installation on soft ground, such as sand or mud, for example.

[0145] In yet another variant, illustrated in Figures 9 and 10a, 10b, the suspension support is in the form of another suspension table 2' made of wood and plastic (or one of its derivatives, hereinafter grouped under the general term "plastic") having sufficient rigidity to carry the oyster containers 1, 1'. As previously, this suspension table 2' comprises feet 21, in the form of wooden piles, driven into the ground at regular spacing and in at least two rows 211a, 211b, in accordance with the description above.

[0146] In this variant, upper plastic bars 22' are fixed to the free end of the feet 21. More precisely, each of the upper bars 22' is made up of two half-bars 221a, 221b (illustrated in FIGS. 10a and 10b) which are substantially identical (but may have a different thickness, for example). In this example, the half-bars 221a, 221b are fixed to the free end of the feet 21 by a fixing screw 223 and a washer (not visible but, for example, made of stainless steel). To do this, the half-bar 221a in contact with the wooden foot 21 has a hole in into which the fixing screw 223 is inserted, preferably made of stainless steel, which is then screwed into the foot 21, as illustrated in [Fig. 10a]. It is obviously understood that other solutions for fixing the upper bars 22' to the feet 21 are possible without departing from the general principle of the invention.

[0147] The half-bars 221a, 221b have, on their faces located opposite each other, slots, or notches, 222 which are for example machined in the shape of a semicircle or a hook open upwards. These notches 222, of approximately 10 mm in diameter for example, are arranged regularly (for example every 55 cm) and are located at corresponding positions along the half-bars 221a, 221b so that, when the half-bars 221a, 221b are assembled, the notches 222 together form a circular orifice configured to receive and hold the suspension axis 105 of an oyster container 1, 1'. Thus, the notches 222 of the half-bars 221a, 221b form the receiving means 23 of the oyster containers 1, 1'.

[0148] Thus, to install containers 1, 1' on such a suspension table 2', it is necessary:

[0149] - to open / separate the half-bars 221a, 221b from the two upper bars 22',

[0150] - to arrange the suspension axis 105 of the containers 1, 1' in the corresponding notches laying the upper bars 22, and

[0151] - to close / assemble the half-bars 221a, 221b of the two upper bars 22' together so that the support axis 105 of the container 1, 1' is trapped between the half-bars 221a, 221b.

[0152] Thus, the oyster containers 1, 1' are suspended by their suspension axes 105 between the two rows 211a, 211b of feet 21 and the upper bars 22'.

[0153] In order to hold the half-bars 221a, 221b in position together after assembly, second reversible locking means 27 can be implemented. To do this, it is possible to provide holes 271 passing through the two half-bars 221a, 221b which are configured to cooperate with, for example, a fixing bolt 272. In the example illustrated in [Fig. 10b], the fixing bolt 272 comprises a stainless steel wing nut, a stainless steel washer, a stainless steel threaded rod, a second stainless steel washer and a stainless steel nut. The fixing bolt 272 can be replaced by a secure pin, a padlock or any other device for locking the half-bars 221a, 221b together, without departing from the general principle of the invention.

[0154] In this variant, the reinforcement bars 25 and the crosspieces 26 are optional.

[0155] Such a suspension table 2, combining wooden legs and plastic top bars, is particularly suitable for installation on soft ground, such as sand or mud, for example.

[0156] In addition, a 2' suspension table of this type has a significantly longer lifespan / lifespan than known suspension tables. Indeed, these tables allow a lifespan of approximately 20 to 30 years to be achieved. In addition, the plastic material used for the upper bars 22' allows very little algae and shellfish to cling. The plastic is also selected to be easily recyclable and to have very low adhesion so that the stainless steel suspension shaft 105 containing 1.1' can rotate easily and with almost no wear. Thus, the environmental impact of such a 2' suspension table is optimized.

[0157] The suspension tables 2, 2' described above in relation to the different variants and using wooden legs 21 are capable of withstanding very strong storms. In addition, their installation is relatively simple since it is possible to choose their height according to the type of park in which they are used.

[0158] Furthermore, it is obviously understood that it is possible to implement a greater number of feet and / or rows of feet, regardless of the variant of the suspension table described above, so as to multiply the number of upper bars in order to suspend a greater number of containers, without departing from the general principle of the invention.

[0159] Furthermore, due to the integration of the suspension axis 105 directly on the container 1, it is possible to provide that the suspension table 2 does not have high transverse bars so as to allow the passage of a machine for loading and unloading the containers onto a towed trailer or onto a boat, for example, so as to mechanize / automate the operations of loading / unloading the shellfish containers.

[0160] [Fig. 11] illustrates an example of a 2, 2', 2” suspension table conforming to the invention showing the containers 1.1' according to the invention in the rest position, that is to say standing substantially vertically. This rest position is the one that the containers 1.1' can take when the tide is low, for example.

[0161] [Fig. 12] illustrates the same 2, 2', 2” suspension table carrying the same containers 1,1' than in [Fig. 11], in which the containers 1,1' are in an inclined position, that is to say they are held at an angle other than vertical. This inclined position is the one that the containers 1,1' can take when the tide is high, for example. This natural pivoting of the containers 1,1' is notably permitted by the implementation of the rotation axis 105 and the float 13 on the container 1,1'.

Claims

Claims

1. Container (1, 1') for the cultivation of shellfish comprising a mesh (11, 11') shaped so as to form a receiving space (12) for said shellfish, said container (1) being in the form of a pocket (1) comprising: - a flexible envelope (11) forming said mesh, as well as - a frame (10) carrying an axis of rotation (105) of said container (1, 1') and a hanger (100), said hanger (100) being arranged inside said flexible envelope (11) and being configured to conform the flexible envelope (11) so as to form said receiving space (12) of said shells within the flexible envelope (11), and said hanger (100) comprising a rectilinear base (101) from which extends a U-shaped element (102) whose lateral uprights (103b, 103c) are curved.

2. Container (1, 1') according to claim 1, characterized in that said axis of rotation (105) is fixed on an external surface of said mesh (11, 11') and in that it is offset relative to a plane comprising the center of gravity of said container (1).

3. Container (1) according to any one of claims 1 and 2, according to which said suspension axis (105) comprises at least one circular rod (107a, 107b) forming an axis of rotation of the oyster bag (1), said at least one circular rod (107a, 107b) being offset relative to an outer edge of said flexible envelope (11).

4. Container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, according to which the envelope 11 is in the form of a tube with an openable end, said end having reversible closing means (111) of the flexible envelope 11, said reversible closing means (111) preferably comprising hooks (112) mounted on an elastic band (113).

5. Container (1) according to one of claims 3 and 4, according to which said frame (100) is entirely or partially metallic and comprises means for fixing said suspension axis (105) with said hanger (100), said flexible envelope (11) being arranged between said suspension axis (105) and said hanger (100).

6. Container (1, 1') according to one of claims 1 to 5, according to which said container (1, 1') comprises at least one float (13) fixed on at least one float (13). at least one outer surface of said mesh (11, 11').

7. Suspension support (2, 2', 2”) intended to suspend at least one container (1) as defined according to one of claims 1 to 7, said suspension support (2, 2', 2”) comprising at least four feet (21) arranged in at least two parallel rows (211a, 211b) and two upper bars (22, 22') extending substantially parallel to said parallel rows (211a, 211b), and said upper bars (22, 22') each being carried by at least two feet (21) of the same row (211a, 221b), said upper bars (22, 22') comprising at least one pair of receiving (23) and holding means arranged opposite each other on each of said upper bars (22, 22') so as to be able to receive the rotation axis (105) of a container (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, said suspension support (2, 2', 2”) being free of transverse bar at the level of said upper bars (22).

8. Suspension bracket (2, 2”) according to claim 7, wherein said upper bars (22) are made of metal, and said receiving means (23) comprise at least one hook (231) welded to each of said upper bars (22).

9. Suspension support (2, 2”) according to claim 7, characterized in that said upper bars (22) are made of wood and in that said receiving means (23) comprise at least one hook (231) fixed on each of said upper bars (22).

10. Suspension support (2, 2”) according to one of claims 7 to 9, comprising first reversible locking means (24) of said containers (1) with said receiving means (23).

11. Suspension bracket (2, 2”) according to claim 7, wherein said upper bars (22) are made of plastic and in that said receiving means (23) comprise at least one hook (231) fixed on each of said upper bars (22).

12. Suspension support (2') according to claim 7, according to which said at least two upper bars (22') are each made up of two half-bars (221a, 221b) having corresponding slots / notches which, when the half-bars (221a, 221b) are assembled, form said means for receiving (23) and holding at least one container (1, 1') for shells.

13. Suspension support (2') according to claim 12, according to which it comprises second reversible locking means (27) of said half-bars (221a, 221b) between them when they are assembled and when they receive said containers (1, 1').

14. Suspension support (2, 2', 2”) according to one of claims 7 to 13, according to which 1 further comprises at least one crosspiece (26) and / or at least one reinforcement bar (25), said crosspiece (26) and / or at least one reinforcement bar (25) being fixed between at least two feet (21) at a distance from the upper end of the feet (21) at least equal to the width (1g) of a container (1, 1').

15. Equipment for raising shellfish comprising a suspension support (2, 2', 2”) as defined according to any one of claims 7 to 14 and at least one container (1, 1') suspended from said suspension support (2, 2', 2”) so that the axis of rotation (105) containing (1, 1') is received by a pair of receiving means (23) arranged opposite each other on each of the upper bars (22).

16. Use of the equipment as defined according to claim 15 for the purpose of mechanization / automation of the loading and unloading of the containers (1, 1') onto the suspension table (2).

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