Animal breeding device

Abstract

To provide a higher performance animal breeding device.SOLUTION: An animal breeding device includes a breeding case part 12 having airtightness in which crickets are bred in an internal space 13, and an air circulation part for performing supply of air to the breeding case part 12 and collection of air from the breeding case part 12. The breeding case part 12 includes a circulation air inlet port 18 for taking in air and a circulation air outlet port 20 for discharging air. The animal breeding device includes a ventilation part 50 for partitioning the internal space 13 into an upper space part 52 and a lower space part 54, through which air can pass. Air is caused to pass from the lower space part 54 to the upper space part 52, and crickets are bred in the upper space part 52.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an animal breeding apparatus used for breeding animals. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 (claim 1, etc.) listed below discloses an invention relating to a system including a crate (1) for storing insect larvae, an air inlet duct (2), etc. In the invention disclosed in Patent Document 1, multiple crates (1) are stacked. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 (paragraphs 0029, 0030, Figure 2, etc.) listed below discloses that the upper end of a stop member (21) is held by a ceiling board (111), and the stop member (21) serves as a foothold for the crickets (500). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7302098 [Patent Document 2] Patent Publication No. 2021-151190 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the technical field of animal breeding devices, there is a demand for performance that is even more suitable for the animals to be kept and for the people who keep them (breeders).

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an animal rearing apparatus with higher performance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An animal breeding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: an airtight breeding case portion in which animals are bred; an air circulation unit that supplies air to the rearing case unit and collects the air from the rearing case unit, The rearing case part is an inlet for taking in the air; and an outlet for discharging the air. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a higher performance animal breeding apparatus can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view schematically illustrating an animal breeding apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1(a) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a plurality of rearing case parts are connected in series, and FIG. 1(b) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a plurality of rearing case parts are connected in parallel. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a circulating air inlet and a circulating air outlet. [Figure 4] 10(a) to 10(c) are explanatory diagrams showing modified examples relating to the arrangement of the circulating air inlet and the circulating air outlet. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a light source unit. [Figure 6] 10(a) and 10(b) are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the arrangement of the scaffolding part, and 10(c) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the structure of the locking receiving part. [Figure 7] 10(a) and 10(b) are explanatory diagrams showing modified examples of the scaffolding part. [Figure 8] FIG. 1A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a lid portion, and FIG. 1B is an explanatory diagram showing a modified example of the lid portion. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are explanatory views showing another modified example of the lid portion. [Figure 10] FIG. 1(a) is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a feeding area, and FIG. 1(b) is an enlarged perspective view of the feeding area of ​​FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a window portion. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a fumigation unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] <Basic Configuration of Animal Breeding Apparatus 10> An animal rearing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows the animal rearing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment. The animal rearing apparatus 10 can rear any animals, but in this embodiment, the insect crickets are the targets of rearing. The animal rearing apparatus 10 can be installed, for example, in a rearing factory where crickets are reared.

[0010] The animal breeding apparatus 10 includes a breeding case section 12 and an air circulation section 14. An air purifying section 16 is provided between the breeding case section 12 and the air circulation section 14. Here, basic details of the breeding case section 12, the air circulation section 14, and the air purifying section 16 will be explained, and their details will be described later.

[0011] The breeding case section 12 is airtight due to its sealed structure, and it is sufficient that animals (here, crickets) can be raised in the internal space 13. The air circulation section 14 is sufficient that it can supply air to the breeding case section 12 and collect air from the breeding case section 12. Furthermore, the breeding case section 12 is sufficient that it has an inlet (circulating air inlet 18) for taking in air and an outlet (circulating air outlet 20) for discharging air. Furthermore, the air purification section 16 is sufficient that it purifies the air.

[0012] 1, the rearing case section 12, the air circulation section 14, and the air purification section 16 are each shown schematically as a rectangular box (container). The rearing case section 12, the air circulation section 14, and the air purification section 16 may have any shape as long as they can perform the functions described above.

[0013] The rearing case section 12 and the air circulation section 14 are connected to each other so as to enable air circulation (air circulation). Specifically, the rearing case section 12 and the air circulation section 14 are connected to each other via a circulating air inlet pipe 22 and a circulating air outlet pipe 24.

[0014] As described above, the rearing case section 12 has a circulating air inlet 18 and a circulating air outlet 20. Furthermore, the air circulation section 14 has a circulating air supply port 30 and a circulating air recovery port 32. The circulating air introduction pipe 22 is connected to the circulating air inlet 18 of the rearing case section 12 and the circulating air supply port 30 of the air circulation section 14. The circulating air discharge pipe 24 is connected to the circulating air discharge port 20 of the rearing case section 12 and the circulating air recovery port 32 of the air circulation section 14. The air purifying section 16 is disposed midway along the circulating air discharge pipe 24.

[0015] The circulating air inlet pipe 22 and the circulating air outlet pipe 24 are connected to the rearing case section 12 and the air circulation section 14 at each connection port (circulating air inlet port 18, circulating air outlet port 20, circulating air supply port 30, and circulating air recovery port 32) so as to prevent leakage of circulating air (circulating air). For connection of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 and the circulating air outlet pipe 24 at each connection port, for example, a straight or L-shaped pipe joint may be used.

[0016] Furthermore, the air circulation unit 14 is formed with an air intake port 34 and an air discharge port 36. An air intake pipe 38 is connected to the air intake port 34, and an air discharge pipe 40 is connected to the air discharge port 36. Pipe joints can also be used to connect the air intake pipe 38 and the air discharge pipe 40 to the air intake port 34 and the air discharge port 36.

[0017] The rearing case section 12, the air circulation section 14, and the air purification section 16 constitute a "rearing system." This "rearing system" is a concept that represents the space, area, and / or grouping where animals (here, crickets) are reared. Outside the rearing system is the "rearing work system." This "rearing work system" is a concept that represents the space, area, and / or grouping where a person who rears animals (a breeder) can perform the actions (rearing actions) necessary for rearing animals in the "rearing system."

[0018] <Air Circulation Section 14> The air circulation unit 14 is a facility having the function of flowing air into the rearing case unit 12 and circulating air between the rearing case unit 12. In order for the air circulation unit 14 to perform its air circulation function, for example, various fan devices (not shown) are installed inside the air circulation unit 14.

[0019] By operating a fan device inside the air circulation section 14 to blow air, it becomes possible to introduce air into the rearing case section 12 via the circulating air inlet pipe 22. Furthermore, by operating the fan device, it becomes possible to push out the air inside the rearing case section 12 via the circulating air outlet pipe 24, thereby discharging the air inside the rearing case section 12. Here, arrow A0 in Figure 1 indicates the direction in which the circulating air flows.

[0020] A fan device inside the air circulation section 14 gives fluidity to the air, and the circulating air flows through the air circulation section 14, rearing case section 12, air purifying section 16, air circulation section 14, . . .

[0021] For example, the air circulation section 14 may be provided with a fan device (first fan device) for circulating air between the rearing case section 12 and the rearing case section 12, and a fan device (second fan device) for taking in outside air and discharging air returning from the rearing case section 12. When two types of fan devices are provided in this way, either one of the fan devices (or a part of the multiple fan devices) may be disposed outside the air circulation section 14.

[0022] Furthermore, it is not limited to a fan device, and it is also possible to use other types of blowers, air pumps, etc. The air intake pipe 38, blowers, and air pumps function as devices for continuously or intermittently replacing part of the circulating air with external air.

[0023] The air circulation unit 14 has a function of adjusting the temperature and / or humidity (temperature and / or humidity) of the air flowing into the rearing case unit 12. The temperature and humidity can be adjusted by providing the air circulation unit 14 with various devices (temperature and humidity adjusting devices, temperature and humidity adjusting units) such as a heater, a cooler, an air conditioner, a humidifier, etc. The function of the air circulation unit 14 to adjust the temperature and humidity of the air can be adjusted to a state suitable for rearing.

[0024] Regarding temperature, for example, a temperature of around 30° is desirable. Regarding humidity, it is desirable to keep it below 50% (for example, 30-50%). Regarding humidity control, it is thought that dehumidification will be required more often than humidification. Furthermore, since working for long periods of time in low humidity is harsh on breeders, it is effective to separate the breeding system from the breeding work system and allow breeders to work outside the breeding system.

[0025] Here, if the animal breeding apparatus 10 can use an external heat source, the heat source may be used to adjust the temperature and humidity of the air instead of a heater. An example of a case in which the animal breeding apparatus 10 can use an external heat source is when the animal breeding apparatus 10 can use exhaust heat from other equipment attached to the breeding factory. By breeding animals in a sealed space (internal space 13) as in this embodiment, heat loss can be prevented.

[0026] By providing the air circulation unit 14 as described above, it is possible to maintain good air quality in the rearing environment (such as the rearing system) for crickets and in the working environment (such as the rearing work system) of the rearing factory. Specifically, by rearing animals (here, crickets) in the rearing case unit 12, toxic components (poisonous substances) and smelly components (smelly substances), such as ammonia generated from feces and carcasses, become mixed into the air within the rearing case unit 12. Toxic components include components that are toxic to crickets. Smelly components include components that humans perceive as smelly. Hereinafter, toxic components and smelly components will be collectively referred to as "toxic components, etc."

[0027] If the concentration of toxic substances increases, it can have an adverse effect on the rearing of living organisms (here, crickets). This is particularly noticeable in an animal rearing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, which is a type that rears animals in a sealed space rather than an open space. However, by providing the air circulation unit 14, air circulation is performed and the air inside the rearing case unit 12 is replaced, so the concentration of toxic substances can be reduced and maintained at an acceptable level (around the acceptable concentration). Note that, when looking at the entire circulation path, the concentration of toxic substances increases simply by circulating the air. Therefore, it is effective to remove toxic substances using the air purification unit 16 described above. Details of the air purification unit 16 will be described later.

[0028] Furthermore, a decrease in O2 concentration and an increase in CO2 concentration due to respiration by living organisms (here, crickets) may disrupt the concentration balance throughout the circulation path. This disruption in the O2 and CO2 concentration balance (like an increase in the concentration of harmful substances) can adversely affect the rearing of living organisms. Therefore, the concentration balance can be maintained by exchanging (changing) outside air with circulating air. Specifically, in this embodiment, the air circulation unit 14 is provided with an air intake pipe 38 and an air discharge pipe 40. Fresh outside air is taken into the air circulation unit 14 through the air intake pipe 38. A flow of air is also released from the air circulation unit 14 through the air discharge pipe 40. The air circulation unit 14 also contains circulated air returning from the rearing case 12. Therefore, the circulated air can be exchanged with outside air. The exchange of outside air with circulated air also makes it possible to maintain the concentration balance of O2, CO2, and the like in the air supplied to the rearing case 12 at an acceptable level (about the acceptable concentration level). In this embodiment, the air intake port 34, the air discharge port 36, the air intake pipe 38, and the air discharge pipe 40 are arranged in the air circulation unit 14, but the present invention is not limited to this and may be provided, for example, in the air purification unit 16 or in a piping portion (such as a portion midway through the circulating air inlet pipe 22 or the circulating air outlet pipe 24). Also, it is possible to perform only one of the adjustment of the concentration and concentration balance using the air intake pipe 38 and the air discharge pipe 40, and the adjustment of the concentration and concentration balance using the air purification unit 16 (described later).

[0029] For example, a plurality of rearing case sections 12 may be connected to one (single) air circulation section 14. In such a case, the connection may be in parallel as shown in FIG. 2(a) or in series as shown in FIG. 2(b). The connection of the plurality of rearing case sections 12 may be, for example, a combination of series and parallel. In the example of FIGS. 2(a) and 2(b), the air purifying section 16 is attached to each rearing case section 12 in a one-to-one relationship, but the air purifying section 16 may also be disposed in a shared section (common section) of the circulating air outlet pipe 24. In this way, the number of air purifying sections 16 can be reduced.

[0030] In the example of Figure 1, the size of the rearing case section 12 in the longitudinal direction (here, the X direction) is about 1.5 m. However, if a larger rearing space is required, it is possible to connect multiple rearing case sections 12 as shown in Figures 2(a) and 2(b) to increase the size of the rearing equipment. However, increasing the size of the rearing equipment increases the burden of keeping the space used for rearing clean and the burden of harvesting (collecting) the crickets. Therefore, it is desirable to select an appropriate size for the rearing equipment so that it is not excessively large.

[0031] <Air Purification Unit 16> The air purifying unit 16 is disposed midway along the circulating air outlet pipe 24, and as will be described later, circulating air drawn out from the rearing case unit 12 is introduced into the air purifying unit 16. The air purifying unit 16 purifies the introduced air and discharges it, removing toxic components and the like from the circulating air.

[0032] An air purification member such as a filter or an air purification device is installed inside the air purification unit 16. The filter is preferably installed according to the component to be removed. An example of a filter is one that uses activated carbon. The filter is preferably detachable and replaceable.

[0033] Instead of or in addition to the filter, a germicidal lamp may be used to purify the circulating air. The germicidal lamp may emit, for example, UV light. Here, the term "sterilization" is used in this embodiment to mean, for example, disinfection and sterilization.

[0034] <Breeding Case Section 12> Next, various configurations (configurations shown in Figs. 3 to 12 and other configurations) that can be equipped in the breeding case section 12 will be described in order. Note that, although various configurations will be described individually below, multiple configurations can be used in appropriate combination in one animal breeding apparatus 10 unless there is any particular problem.

[0035] <<Circulating air path>> The rearing case section 12 is a facility with functions suitable for rearing and harvesting animals. Specifically, as shown schematically in Figure 3, the rearing case section 12 is capable of ventilating the entire interior with circulating air.

[0036] 3 shows the internal structure regarding ventilation of the rearing case section 12. In the internal space 13 of the rearing case section 12, the circulating air introduction pipe 22 extends linearly from the ceiling section 46 to the bottom section 48. Note that the circulating air introduction pipe 22 may be formed to be bent (including curved) in the internal space 13 of the rearing case section 12.

[0037] A ventilation section 50 is installed inside the rearing case section 12. The ventilation section 50 has a plate-like (or sheet-like) shape and is installed horizontally (along the XY plane) inside the rearing case section 12. The ventilation section 50 divides (separates) the internal space 13 of the rearing case section 12 into an upper space section 52 and a lower space section 54. The upper space section 52 is used as a space into which crickets are released and for rearing the crickets.

[0038] The material for the ventilation section 50 may be one having holes or gaps large enough to prevent crickets from passing through. Specific examples of the material for the ventilation section 50 include a punched panel or netting material with many small holes, and a nonwoven fabric with appropriate rigidity and breathability.

[0039] When raising crickets, for example, from eggs to adults, the material of the ventilation section 50 is preferably one that can prevent the eggs from falling. When raising crickets from hatched larvae, it is preferable to select a material according to the general size of the crickets at the age at which they are first raised. Furthermore, a material that allows sufficiently dried and shrunk feces to fall into the lower space 54 may be used.

[0040] The circulating air inlet pipe 22 passes through the ventilation section 50, and the outlet 58 of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 is located in the lower space section 54. The circulating air inlet pipe 22 introduces the circulating air into the internal space 13 of the rearing case section 12 as shown by arrow A1, and blows it out from the outlet 58. The ventilation section 50 passes the air in the lower space section 54 into the upper space section 52 as shown by arrow B.

[0041] An inlet 60 of the circulating air outlet pipe 24 opens in the ceiling 46 of the rearing case section 12. The circulating air outlet pipe 24 draws in air from the upper space section 52 as shown by arrow A2 and discharges it to the air purifying section 16 provided outside the rearing case section 12.

[0042] By using the rearing case section 12 as described above, it is possible to provide a higher performance animal rearing apparatus 10. Specifically, according to the animal rearing apparatus 10 of this embodiment, it is possible to continuously introduce and discharge circulating air into and from the rearing case section 12. Furthermore, by introducing and discharging circulating air, even if toxic substances or the like are generated in the internal space 13 of the rearing case section 12, it is possible to keep the concentration of the toxic substances or the like at or below a concentration that does not affect insects.

[0043] As a result, it is possible to reduce the frequency of cleaning the rearing case section 12. It is also possible to clearly separate the rearing system, which is the rearing environment for crickets, from the rearing work system, which is the environment where people work in the rearing factory. The rearing work system environment can be separated from the temperature and humidity suitable for rearing crickets and the odors that accompany rearing crickets, improving the work environment in the rearing work system.

[0044] Cricket droppings, dead bodies, etc. can be collected in the upper part of the ventilation section 50. Furthermore, the outlet 58 of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 and the inlet 60 of the circulating air outlet pipe 24 can be arranged diagonally in the vertical direction (here, the Z direction). By continuously flowing circulating air between the outlet 58 located at the bottom and the inlet 60 located at the top, the circulating air can be distributed throughout the interior section of the rearing case section 12, preventing stagnation and enabling good ventilation. Furthermore, by continuously forming a flow of circulating air and preventing stagnation, it is also possible to prevent airborne infection of viruses caused by airborne microorganisms, etc.

[0045] Furthermore, the ventilation section 50 separates the space into which the crickets are released (here, the upper space section 52) and the space into which the circulating air is blown out (here, the lower space section 54). This prevents the circulating air from being blown directly onto the crickets in the upper space section 52. As a result, it is possible to prevent situations from occurring where the circulating air hits the crickets and adversely affects their rearing.

[0046] It is also possible to attach filters 26, 28 (e.g., partitions using netting or nonwoven fabric) to the outlet 58 of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 and / or the inlet 60 of the circulating air outlet pipe 24, which allow the circulating air to pass through but prohibit the passage of crickets (larvae and adults). By doing so, it is possible to prevent crickets from escaping into the circulating air inlet pipe 22 or the circulating air outlet pipe 24.

[0047] Here, the relative positions of the outlet 58 of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 and the inlet 60 of the circulating air outlet pipe 24 are desirably determined in consideration of the flow of circulating air. In the example of Fig. 3, the outlet 58 of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 and the inlet 60 of the circulating air outlet pipe 24 are located at each end in the length direction (here, the X direction) of the rearing case section 12 and at the middle in the width direction (the Y direction). In contrast to this, Figs. 4(a) to (c) show modified examples regarding the positions of the outlet 58 and the inlet 60.

[0048] 4(a) is a schematic plan view of the rearing case 12 from above (here, in the direction opposite to the Z-direction arrow). In the example of FIG. 4(a), the outlet 58 of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 and the inlet 60 of the circulating air outlet pipe 24 are located at each end of the rearing case 12 in the length direction (X-direction) and at opposite (diagonally opposite) ends in the width direction (Y-direction). In this way, circulating air introduced into one corner can be discharged at the other diagonally opposite corner, enabling efficient ventilation of the entire interior space.

[0049] Furthermore, the circulating air introduction pipe 22 and / or the circulating air introduction pipe 22 may be branched into multiple pipes in the internal space 13 of the rearing case section 12. Furthermore, there may be multiple circulating air introduction pipes 22 and / or multiple circulating air introduction pipes 22. In these cases, there will be multiple outlets 58 and / or multiple inlets 60.

[0050] 4(b) and (c) show examples of arrangements in which there are multiple outlets 58 and multiple inlets 60. In the example of FIG. 4(b), multiple (four of each) outlets 58 and inlets 60 are arranged at each end of the length direction (X direction) of the rearing case section 12 and in areas along two sides (opposite sides) extending in the width direction (Y direction). This makes it possible to efficiently ventilate a wide area.

[0051] 4(c), multiple (eight of each) outlets 58 and inlets 60 are arranged at each end of the lengthwise direction (X direction) and widthwise direction (Y direction) of the rearing case section 12, and in areas along each of two sides (opposite sides) extending in the lengthwise direction (X direction) and widthwise direction (Y direction). This makes it possible to ventilate a wide area more efficiently than, for example, the example of FIG. 4(b).

[0052] The arrangement of the outlet 58 and / or the inlet 60 is not limited to the examples shown in Figure 1 and Figures 4(a) to (c), and can be modified in various ways. In any case, it is also possible to direct the outlet 58 (or a part of multiple outlets) of the circulating air inlet pipe 22 toward the inner wall surface 62 of the rearing case section 12 and have it reflected by the inner wall surface 62 of the lower space section 54.

[0053] <<Installation of light source unit 66>> 5, a light source unit 66 can be installed inside the rearing case unit 12. The light source unit 66 irradiates the interior of the rearing case unit 12 with environmentally friendly light. The environmentally friendly light is light that promotes the growth of crickets, and has been confirmed to promote the growth of crickets through, for example, previous experiments.

[0054] In a previously conducted experiment, for example, it is examined whether good rearing results are obtained when rearing is performed under the same conditions, with only the presence or absence of a light source being different. Then, the light source that has produced good results is selected as the light source for the light source unit 66.

[0055] Such a light source unit 66 simulates day and night in a natural environment by changing the lighting duration and light intensity conditions. These conditions may be conditions obtained through the aforementioned "preliminary experiments, etc." Furthermore, the lighting mode of the light source unit 66 may be changed manually. Alternatively, although not shown, the light source unit 66 may be connected to a light source control unit, and the lighting mode of the light source unit 66 may be changed by automatic control performed by the light source control unit.

[0056] The light source unit 66 may be one that outputs visible light (visible rays) (such as a fluorescent lamp or LED light source). Alternatively, the light source unit 66 may be one that outputs both visible light and UV light, provided that this does not interfere with the rearing of the crickets. For example, UV light with a UV level equivalent to that of sunlight is used. According to the inventors' findings, irradiation with UV light can sometimes be effective in resolving incomplete molting in insects such as crickets. Therefore, it is desirable that the UV light be at a level that allows for smooth molting without damaging the crickets.

[0057] The circulating air can be sterilized using UV light from the air purifier 16, while the light source 66 can promote the growth of crickets. The light source 66 can also sterilize at a level that does not damage the crickets.

[0058] Furthermore, light sources that output different types of light may be employed to irradiate multiple types of light (for example, light with different wavelengths and / or colors) as the multiple light source units 66. Furthermore, the light source unit 66 may be a combination of a light source and optical elements such as a lens element, a deflection element, a mirror, etc.

[0059] Furthermore, the size, arrangement, number, etc. of the light source unit 66 can be set arbitrarily within a range that is effective for rearing crickets. Also, the light source unit 66 may be one that outputs only invisible light (invisible light rays) as long as it can produce good results for rearing crickets.

[0060] By providing the light source unit 66 as described above, it is possible to provide an animal breeding apparatus 10 with higher performance.

[0061] <<Installation of scaffolding 70>> As shown in Figs. 6(a) to (c), scaffolding sections 70 can be provided inside the rearing case section 12. The scaffolding sections 70 are capable of being grasped by crickets, and in the example of Figs. 6(a) and (b), multiple scaffolding sections 70 are provided inside the rearing case section 12. Each scaffolding section 70 has a sheet-like (or plate-like) shape. The scaffolding sections 70 may be suitably flexible, or may be rigid enough not to bend easily. By providing multiple scaffolding sections 70, it is possible to secure a larger rearing area within the limited size of the internal space 13.

[0062] As shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), a rod-shaped scaffolding support member 72 penetrates the upper parts of the multiple scaffolding sections 70. The cross-sectional shape of the scaffolding support member 72 may be any of a perfect circle, ellipse, triangle, square, polygon, etc. Furthermore, the scaffolding support member 72 may be singular or plural.

[0063] The scaffolding support member 72 is fixed to the inner wall surface 62 of the rearing case section 12 and extends in the X direction. Various methods can be used to fix the scaffolding support member 72. As shown in an enlarged view in Fig. 6(c), the scaffolding support member 72 shown in Fig. 6(a) and (b) has both axial end portions 74 (only one of which is shown) formed in a T-shape.

[0064] A locking receiving portion 76 is provided to protrude from the inner wall surface 62. The locking receiving portion 76 has a structure that allows an end portion 74 of the scaffolding support member 72 to be locked, and both ends 74 of the scaffolding support member 72 are hooked onto the locking receiving portion 76. The scaffolding support member 72 is supported at both ends in the upper space 52 of the rearing case section 12. Furthermore, a plurality of scaffolding sections 70 are suspended by the scaffolding support member 72 in a state where they are arranged parallel to one another at equal intervals.

[0065] Although not shown in the figures, the sheet surface (or plate surface) of the foothold portion 70 has irregularities formed thereon to make it easier for crickets to grab onto it. These irregularities may be formed on both the front and back sheet surfaces (or plate surfaces) of the foothold portion 70, or may be formed on only one of the sheet surfaces (or plate surfaces). To form the irregularities, for example, it is possible to intentionally scratch the surface of the foothold portion 70 to roughen the surface (increase the surface roughness). For example, synthetic resin or metal can be used as the material for the foothold portion 70. If resin is used as the material for the foothold portion 70, it is easy to form the irregularities.

[0066] Here, by varying the size (depth, width, etc.) of the unevenness formed on the foothold portion 70, the ease with which crickets can grasp the surface tends to vary. For example, large crickets have difficulty grasping relatively small unevenness, but find it easy to grasp large unevenness. Therefore, for example, by varying the size of the unevenness for each foothold portion 70, it becomes possible to separate crickets (segregate their habitats) according to their size.

[0067] Furthermore, when raising crickets, depending on the circumstances, the crickets may engage in cannibalism. Cannibalism often occurs when large, relatively strong crickets prey on small, relatively weak crickets in a situation where crickets of different sizes coexist. For this reason, by installing multiple scaffolding sections 70 with different sizes of unevenness, for example, scaffolding sections 70 with small unevenness or areas of the scaffolding sections 70 with small unevenness can be used as escape routes for small crickets. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent crickets of different sizes from mixing on a single scaffolding section 70. As a result, it is possible to reduce the frequency of cannibalism.

[0068] Furthermore, the unevenness is not limited to being added later (additional machining). For example, when forming the scaffold portion 70 using a molding die, it is also possible to form appropriate unevenness on the inner surface of the molding die in advance. Furthermore, the scaffold portion 70 may be formed from a pulp mold material (pulp mold material) used for paper egg packaging containers, fruit and vegetable trays, etc. Pulp mold material generally has an appropriately rough surface (a surface with unevenness). Furthermore, the unevenness may be large enough to be visible to the naked eye, or may be small enough to be invisible to the naked eye.

[0069] By providing the scaffolding portion 70 as described above, it is possible to provide an animal breeding apparatus 10 with higher performance.

[0070] In the example of Figures 6(a) and (b), the scaffolding section 70 is hung vertically in the upper space section 52, but this is not limited thereto, and it may be oriented diagonally, for example, as shown in Figure 7(a). Furthermore, the scaffolding section 70 may be oriented horizontally, as shown in Figure 7(b). By doing so, it is possible to reduce the strain on the cricket when it grabs onto the scaffolding section 70.

[0071] Furthermore, in addition to the scaffolding 70 additionally provided on the rearing case 12, the inner wall surface 62 or the ceiling 46 of the rearing case 12 may also be used as the scaffolding. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 6(a) to (c) and 7(a) and (b), the scaffolding 70 is not added to the rearing case 12, and although not shown, for example, the inner wall surface 62 or the ceiling 46 of the rearing case 12 may also be used as the scaffolding. Furthermore, sheet bodies (or plate bodies) such as the scaffolding 70 may be arranged in a line on the bottom 48 of the rearing case 12.

[0072] Furthermore, it is also possible to change the size of the unevenness in one scaffolding part 70. For example, in the scaffolding part 70 of the example of Figures 6(a) and (b), it is possible to form relatively small (or large) unevenness in the upper part and relatively large (or small) unevenness in the lower part.

[0073] <<Structure for easy harvesting>> The rearing case section 12 can be provided with an opening / closing section (described later) that spatially connects the internal space 13 with the external space 78 of the rearing case section 12 to release the airtightness. By providing such an opening / closing section, the rearing case section 12 can be provided with a structure that makes it easy to harvest crickets.

[0074] For example, an open section can be formed by making a part of the rearing case section 12 openable, closable or detachable. Hereinafter, opening, closing or detaching may be referred to as "opening, closing, etc."

[0075] The position and size of the open part may be, for example, a part or all of the upper part 77 of the rearing case part 12. For example, Fig. 8(a) shows an example in which a lid part 80 is provided as an open part in the upper part 77 constituting the ceiling part 46 of the rearing case part 12. The lid part 80 normally constitutes a part of the upper part 77 of the rearing case part 12, but is opened when harvesting crickets or when feeding as described below, and spatially connects the internal space 13 and the external space 78.

[0076] 8(b) shows an example in which the entire upper part 77 of the rearing case part 12 is made into a lid part 82 (open part). The lid part 82 normally constitutes the entire upper part 77 of the rearing case part 12 as shown by the two-dot chain line, but when harvesting crickets, for example, it is opened as shown by arrow C, and spatially connects the internal space 13 and the external space 78.

[0077] By providing the openings (lids 80, 82) as shown in Figure 8(a) or (b), it is possible to open the openings (lids 80, 82), turn the breeding case section 12 upside down (upside down), and collect crickets through the downward openings (openings 81, 83). Furthermore, by providing the openings (lids 80, 82), it is possible to provide an animal breeding apparatus 10 with higher performance. Note that it is desirable to attach a sealing body (not shown), such as a rubber packing, around the openings (lids 80, 82) to maintain sufficient airtightness when the openings (openings 81, 83) are closed.

[0078] The position in the rearing case section 12 where it can be opened and closed can be determined depending on the method of collecting crickets. For example, some or all of the multiple side sections 84 to 87 of the rearing case section 12 may be provided with lid sections similar to the lid section 80 shown in Figure 8(a). Furthermore, for example, as shown by arrow D in Figure 9, the entire section above the sides 84 to 87 may be configured to be removable. In this case, the detachable lid section 90 is configured by the section above the sides 84 to 87.

[0079] When collecting crickets, it is possible to separate live crickets (living organisms) from feces, dead bodies, etc. by sieving them through a sieve. When collecting crickets, it is also possible to use a method in which CO2 is introduced into the internal space 13 of the rearing case section 12 using the circulating air introduction pipe 22, increasing the CO2 concentration and temporarily stunning the crickets. Temporarily stunning the crickets prevents them from escaping outside the rearing case section 12 when they are collected.

[0080] <<Feeding Structures>> A structure for feeding, watering, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "feeding, etc.") can be employed in the rearing case section 12. Figure 10(a) shows a state in which a feeding area section 92 is installed in the rearing case section 12.

[0081] In the example of Fig. 10(a), the feeding area 92 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate, as shown enlarged in Fig. 10(b). A feed recess 96 and a water recess 98 are formed on a plate surface 94 of the feeding area 92. Food 100 is placed in the feed recess 96, and water is not placed in the water recess 98. In the example of Fig. 10(b), a cricket 101, shown schematically, approaches the feeding area 92 along the foothold 70, and as indicated by arrow E, moves to the feeding area 92 and can ingest food 100, etc.

[0082] The size, number, and location of the food and water recesses 96 and 98 can be determined arbitrarily depending on the number of crickets 101 to be reared and other circumstances. It is also possible to form the food and water recesses 96 and 98 on the front and back plate surfaces 94 and 102 of the feeding area 92.

[0083] Regarding the water supply, for example, a water absorbent body (not shown) made of a material such as absorbent cotton or sponge may be saturated with water and placed on the feeding area 92. The feeding area 92 may also be formed from a material such as absorbent cotton or sponge. Furthermore, solids containing moisture, such as vegetables or jelly, may also be used as the bait 100.

[0084] In the examples of Figures 10(a) and (b), it is possible to change the angle of the feeding area section 92. For example, as shown in Figure 10(b), a support arm 104 that rotatably supports the feeding area section 92 is provided on the ceiling section 46. The tip of the support arm 104 engages with the feeding area section 92, and the feeding area section 92 is supported by the support arm 104 at two points.

[0085] The feeding area section 92 is stopped by the support arm 104 with the plate surface 94 horizontal and facing upward. The position of the feeding area section 92 can be maintained, for example, by utilizing the frictional force between the support arm 104 and the feeding area section 92. Alternatively, a ratchet mechanism or the like can be provided at the tip of the support arm 104 to maintain the position of the feeding area section 92 horizontal. Furthermore, a motor or solenoid or the like can be provided at the tip of the support arm 104 to supply power and change the angle of the feeding area section 92.

[0086] The feeding area 92 can rotate in both forward and reverse directions as shown by arrow G, around a line F (a line parallel to the X direction) connecting the two points where the support arm 104 is engaged. The angle of the feeding area 92 can be changed by a keeper (not shown) rotating the feeding area 92 with their fingers. In the example of Figures 10(a) and (b), the portion of the ceiling 46 located directly above the feeding area 92 is an openable lid 106. This lid 106 can be similar to the lid 80 in Figure 8(a).

[0087] The keeper (not shown) opens the lid 106, brings his / her fingers close to the feeding area 92 through the opening 107, and rotates the feeding area 92. The keeper (not shown) can also open the lid 106 and place food 100 or water (water-soaked absorbent cotton or the like) on the feeding area 92.

[0088] Furthermore, when such a feeding area 92 is provided, either the plate surface 94 or 102 can be selectively directed upward by rotating the feeding area 92. Furthermore, unnecessary food 100 and droppings on the feeding area 92 can be dropped downward and removed.

[0089] The circulating air outlet pipe 24 may also be connected to the cover 106. In this case, the circulating air outlet pipe 24 can be attached and detached. Furthermore, the circulating air outlet pipe 24 can be used for absorbing water. Furthermore, maintenance of the circulating air outlet pipe 24 becomes easier. Furthermore, the parts connected to the outside of the rearing case 12 can be concentrated in one place, making it easier to prevent the crickets from escaping.

[0090] It is desirable to avoid using foreign substances, such as grease, that may have a negative effect on crickets in the mechanism supporting the feeding area 92. Therefore, it is desirable that the mechanism supporting the feeding area 92 be able to support the feeding area 92 so that it can rotate, without using gear mechanisms or bearings that require grease. For this reason, for example, when rotating the feeding area 92 using a driving source such as a motor or solenoid, it is possible to arrange these driving sources inside the rearing case 12 and drive them directly, without using a gear mechanism or the like.

[0091] By providing the feeding area 92 as described above, a higher performance animal rearing apparatus 10 can be provided. It is also possible to provide multiple feeding areas 92. Providing multiple feeding areas 92 makes it easier for the food 100 to reach all the crickets. It also reduces the number of crickets gathering at one feeding area 92. However, according to the inventors' knowledge, the possibility of cannibalism occurring at the feeding area 92 is low, and providing only one feeding area 92 is sufficient to prevent cannibalism from occurring. Reducing the number of feeding areas 92 makes it easier to perform tasks such as replenishing the food 100, cleaning, and maintenance.

[0092] <<Structure that allows for internal observation>> The rearing case 12 can be provided with a light-transmitting window. In the example of Fig. 11, most of the side 84 of the rearing case 12 is a window 110 made of a transparent material. Examples of materials for the window 110 include colorless, transparent glass and acrylic resin.

[0093] By providing such a window 110, the keeper can observe the inside of the rearing case 12 without opening the above-mentioned lids 80, 82, 88, 90, 106. Note that the material of the window 110 may be a colored transparent or translucent material, as long as it allows the interior space 13 of the rearing case 12 to be viewed. Furthermore, by providing the window 110, it is possible to provide an animal rearing apparatus 10 with higher performance.

[0094] The size of the window 110 can be determined arbitrarily depending on factors such as the purpose of observation and the amount of light incident through the window 110. The window 110 may be provided on more than one of the side portions 84 to 87 (for example, the side portion 84 and the side portion 85 facing in different directions), or may be provided on all of the side portions 84 to 87. The window 110 may also be provided on the upper portion 77 or the lower portion 79 constituting the bottom 48. The window 110 may also cover the entire surface of at least some of the upper portion 77, the side portions 84 to 87, and the lower portion 79.

[0095] Furthermore, a light-shielding section (not shown) that covers the window section 110 and blocks light may be provided so that the window section 110 is not exposed except during observation. This prevents external light from entering the internal space 13 when observation is not being performed (when not being observed). Furthermore, when combined with the light source section 66 (FIG. 5) described above, the light source section 66 can be used more effectively. The aforementioned ambient reproduction light may be formed by combining the light entering through the window section 110 with the light from the light source section 66. Furthermore, various types of light-shielding sections may be used, such as a plate-shaped cover, a curtain, a blind, or an adhesive light-shielding sticker.

[0096] <<Labor reduction in sterilization>> The breeding case 12 can be equipped with a sterilization unit capable of sterilizing the internal space 13. In the example of FIG. 5, a light source 66 that outputs UV light is used. Such a light source 66 can perform sterilization automatically, which contributes to reducing the labor required for sterilization. Furthermore, other sterilization devices can also be used.

[0097] 12 shows an example in which the sterilization unit is provided with a fumigation unit 112. The fumigation unit 112 is a facility capable of generating smoke for sterilization therein. The smoke may be generated, for example, by a chemical reaction between water and a heat generating agent, or by ignition of an ignition agent.

[0098] The fumigation unit 112 is connected to the circulating air introduction pipe 22 when there are no crickets in the rearing case 12. The fumigation unit 112 then sends the generated smoke into the rearing case 12. The interior space of the rearing case 12 is sterilized by fumigation using the fumigation unit 112. The fumigation unit 112 may be equipped with a fan device for sending smoke into the rearing case 12. If it is possible to send smoke into the rearing case 12 by utilizing the air pressure difference between the fumigation unit 112 and the rearing case 12, the fan device may be omitted.

[0099] By providing the fumigation unit 112 as described above, it is possible to reduce the number of people required to sterilize the internal space 13 of the breeding case unit 12. Furthermore, by using the fumigation unit 112, it is possible to provide an animal breeding apparatus 10 with higher performance.

[0100] After sterilization, the fumigation unit 112 can be replaced with a blower unit 114, as shown by arrow H in Figure 12. The blower unit 114 is equipped with a fan device. The blower unit 114 sends air for ventilation into the rearing case unit 12 through the circulating air introduction pipe 22. Ventilation by the blower unit 114 is continued until the environmental level in the internal space 13 of the rearing case unit 12 reaches a level that does not adversely affect the living organisms of the crickets.

[0101] Furthermore, it is possible to dispose the fumigation unit 112, for example, between the rearing case unit 12 and the air circulation unit 14. In this case, the smoke generated in the fumigation unit 112 can be mixed with the circulating air flowing from the air circulation unit 14 toward the rearing case unit 12, and sent into the internal space 13 of the rearing case unit 12. In this case, it is not necessary to provide the fumigation unit 112 with a fan device.

[0102] After fumigation, the fumigation section 112 can be removed and circulating air can be sent from the air circulation section 14 to the rearing case section 12. In this case, it becomes possible to ventilate the interior of the rearing case section 12 without using the air blower section 114.

[0103] 2(a) and 2(b), fumigation can also be performed when multiple rearing case units 12 are connected. In these cases, the fumigation unit 112 is connected to a common piping that is commonly connected to the multiple rearing case units 12, or to piping that is individually connected to the multiple rearing case units 12, so that fumigation can be performed on each individual rearing case unit 12.

[0104] <Inventions that can be extracted from the embodiments> From the embodiments described above, the following inventions can be extracted. (1) A breeding case part (such as breeding case part 12) having an airtight internal space (such as internal space 13) in which animals (such as crickets) are bred; an air circulation unit (such as air circulation unit 14) that supplies air to the rearing case unit and collects the air from the rearing case unit, The rearing case part is an inlet for taking in the air (such as a circulating air inlet 18); and an outlet (such as a circulating air outlet 20) for discharging the air. (2) The internal space is divided into an upper space portion (such as the upper space portion 52) and a lower space portion (such as the lower space portion 54), and a ventilation portion (such as the ventilation portion 50) is provided through which the air can pass. The animal rearing apparatus according to (1) above, wherein the air is passed from the lower space to the upper space, and the animals are reared in the upper space. (3) The animal rearing apparatus according to (2) above, wherein the upper space is provided with a foothold (such as foothold 70) that the animal can grasp. (4) The animal breeding apparatus according to (2) above, which is provided with an air purifying unit (such as air purifying unit 16) that purifies the air. (5) The animal breeding apparatus according to (2) above, further comprising a light source unit (such as the light source unit 66) that irradiates the breeding case unit with light that reproduces the environment that promoted the growth of the animals. (6) An animal breeding device as described in (2) above, in which the breeding case section is provided with an opening / closing section (such as a lid section 80, 82, 90, 106) that spatially connects the internal space with the external space of the breeding case section (such as external space 78) and releases the airtightness. (7) The animal breeding apparatus according to (2) above, wherein the internal space is provided with a feeding area section (such as feeding area section 92) whose angle can be changed. (8) The animal breeding apparatus according to (2) above, wherein the breeding case section is provided with a light-transmitting window section (such as window section 110). (9) The animal rearing apparatus according to (2) above, which is provided with a sterilization section (such as the fumigation section 112) capable of sterilizing the internal space.

[0105] <Other> The present invention is not limited to the various embodiments described above, and various modifications and combinations of the various embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 10: Animal breeding equipment 12: Rearing case section 13: Interior space 14: Air circulation section 16: Air purifying unit 18: Inlet for rearing case 20: Breeding case outlet 22: Circulating air intake pipe 24: Circulating air outlet pipe 50: Ventilation section 52: Upper space part 54: Lower space part 66:Light source section 70: Scaffolding 72: Scaffolding support member 76: Locking receiving part 80, 82, 90, 106: Lid part 92: Feeding area 110: Window section 112: Fumigation Department

Claims

1. an airtight breeding case portion in which animals are bred; an air circulation unit that supplies air to the rearing case unit and collects the air from the rearing case unit, The rearing case part is an inlet for taking in the air; and an outlet for discharging the air.

2. a ventilation section that divides the internal space into an upper space section and a lower space section and allows the air to pass through; 2. The animal rearing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the air is passed from the lower space to the upper space, and the animals are reared in the upper space.

3. 3. The animal breeding apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the upper space is provided with a foothold that the animals can grasp.

4. The animal breeding apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising an air purifying unit that purifies the air.

5. 3. The animal breeding apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a light source unit that irradiates the breeding case unit with light that reproduces an environment that promotes the growth of the animals.

6. The animal breeding apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising an opening / closing part in the breeding case section that spatially connects the internal space with an external space of the breeding case section to release the airtightness.

7. The animal breeding apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the internal space is provided with a feeding area section whose angle can be changed.

8. The animal breeding apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the breeding case portion is provided with a light-transmitting window portion.

9. The animal breeding apparatus according to claim 2 , further comprising a sterilization unit capable of sterilizing the internal space.

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