Insect rearing system with shelf-integrated feeding

Abstract

The invention discloses an automated insect rearing system (10) having: a shelf arrangement (12) that has a shelf (14) having a plurality of shelf storage locations (34) for storing a corresponding plurality of trays (16), wherein each of the trays (16) is designed to receive insects during a rearing period; a storage and retrieval unit, RBG, (18) which has a vertically movable load-receiving means, LAM, (36) which is designed to transport the trays (16) and to store and retrieve said trays horizontally in and from the storage locations (34); and a food applicator (44), which is designed to distribute insect food among the insects located in one of the trays (16); wherein the applicator (44) is arranged: on the RBG-LAM (36) or in at least one of the storage locations (34), which is designed as a food supply station.

Description

[0001] Insect breeding system with shelf-integrated feeding

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the industrial rearing of insects, for example for use as animal feed (in livestock farming) or as a protein source, wherein an automatically operated storage rack system is used in which the insects are stored in, preferably long, containers or trays on the rack during the rearing period. In particular, it relates to the automation of the feeding process.

[0003] The industrial farming of insects for the production of, for example, animal feed is a growing sector that offers a sustainable protein source for animal feed. Frequently farmed insects

[0004] Insect species include, for example, the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), mealworms (Tenebrio molitor), and house crickets (Acheta domesticus), as they have a high protein content, a rapid growth rate, and are easy to breed. Breeding and propagation can be achieved by maintaining an initial population of adult insects to lay eggs. The eggs can then be collected and placed in special breeding containers.

[0005] The eggs are transferred to incubation containers. They can then be incubated under controlled conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.). Hatched larvae are fed in containers with a nutrient substrate. Commonly used substrates include organic waste, food production residues, or specialized feed mixtures. The nutrient substrate is added to the containers holding the larvae. This can be done manually or automatically. Many modern facilities use automated systems to make feeding more efficient and consistent. Automatic conveying systems transport the feed to the individual rearing containers outside the racks, and automatic dosing systems ensure that the correct amount of feed is dispensed into each container. After a specific growth period, the larvae are harvested. This is done, for example, by sieving or other separation methods.The harvested larvae are cleaned and often sterilized by heating or drying to eliminate pathogens. The larvae are then dried to extend their shelf life. The dried larvae are processed into powder or pellets for easier incorporation into animal feed. This insect meal is mixed with other ingredients to create balanced feeds for livestock such as fish, poultry, or pigs.

[0006] Automated feeding systems play a central role in industrial insect farming to ensure the efficiency and consistency of feeding. As mentioned above, conveyor systems can transport feed from a central feed storage area to the rearing containers located separately outside the storage area. Screw conveyors use a rotating screw to transport the feed. Belt conveyors use a moving belt to move the feed to the containers. Vacuum conveyors use a vacuum to draw feed through pipes to separately arranged feeding stations.

[0007] WO 2016 / 166471 A1 describes a high-bay warehouse where rearing containers are stacked on top of each other during the growth phase and are placed on pallets in the racking area where growth takes place. The pallets are stored and retrieved using stacker cranes and transported via conventional conveyor technology from the storage area (Zone 1) to a separately located handling area (Zone 2). At the interface between the two areas, the containers are unstacked, i.e., separated, to then be filled with (insect) food, restacked, and returned to the racking area. The same handling approach is described in WO 2014 / 171829 A1, but without the use of pallets and pallet racking in the storage area. The rearing process, on the one hand, and any kind of handling, such as feeding, of the insects (larvae), on the other, takes place in clearly separated areas.

[0008] US Patent 2023 / 0210097 A1 describes an automated mass breeding process for mosquito larvae. Rearing containers (bags made of two rigid, sealed layers of plastic) are filled with larvae and food, placed in trays, and stored on a shelf. When more food needs to be added, robotic arms and conveyor belts are used to automatically move the larvae trays, including the bags. The conveyor systems use vacuum suction cups to lift and evenly distribute the bags, minimizing the risk of imbalances and damage. Sensors continuously monitor the growth conditions and automatically adjust the temperature and lighting to ensure optimal growth.

[0009] EP 3 944 759 A1 describes an automatic vertical lift module (VLM) where trays for growing plants are used in a so-called storage lift. The storage lift consists of two racks between which a storage machine (lift) is positioned to horizontally load and unload the trays, transfer them between different storage locations, and exchange them with the outside world via an interface (operating port). One of the storage locations is configured as an irrigation station, to which the trays are transported by the storage machine to be filled with water. After irrigation, the trays are returned by the storage machine to their original storage locations.

[0010] According to its title, WO 2022 / 180 128 A1 concerns a transport device and a transport method in insect breeding.

[0011] US 2017 / 0360014A1, according to its title, concerns an autonomous feeding platform for insects. US 2013 / 0319334A1, according to its title, concerns systems and methods for raising insect larvae.

[0012] According to its title, US 2020 / 0 323 173 AI concerns an automated insect breeding facility, a container and modules.

[0013] According to its title, DE 10 2021 117 134 B3 relates to a device and a method for raising insects in a high-bay warehouse.

[0014] According to its title, EP 4 118 963 A1 concerns an arrangement for the breeding of insects and methods for breeding insects using the arrangement.

[0015] It is therefore an objective of the present disclosure to provide an improved automated insect rearing system that, in particular, avoids insect contamination and unnecessary transport. The rearing process should be time-optimized.

[0016] This problem is solved by an automated insect rearing system comprising: a, preferably fully automatic and / or enclosed, racking arrangement comprising: a rack having a plurality of storage locations for storing a corresponding plurality of trays, which are arranged, in particular, one above the other and spaced apart from each other, each tray being configured to hold insects during a rearing period; a storage and retrieval machine (SRM) having a vertically movable load handling device (LMD) configured to transport the trays and to store and retrieve them horizontally in and out of the storage locations; and a feed applicator configured to distribute insect feed over the insects located in one of the trays; wherein the applicator is arranged on the SRM LMD, which is further configured to transport the trays;or in one of the storage areas that is set up as a food supply station.

[0017] Integrated management eliminates the risk of insect contamination during external transport. Furthermore, it eliminates the handling cycles required for removing insects from storage, thus significantly increasing energy efficiency.

[0018] Management, especially feeding, is efficient and compact. The developing insects are handled – as living organisms – with care, particularly by moving them as little as possible.

[0019] The system requires a small total area (“footprint”) because an external feeding station is not needed. The available space is used optimally.

[0020] The system is assembled from simple components. It is modular. The system can be easily installed.

[0021] The system is energy-efficient because the transport of insects is restricted. Transport routes are shorter, requiring less energy for transport. Separate climate control of the transport routes is unnecessary. Connecting conveyor technology is also eliminated.

[0022] The risk of contaminating the insects during their growth is reduced. The insects do not leave the growth area; they remain permanently within the shelving system. They have no contact with the outside world. Contamination via conveyor technology or any handling location other than the storage area is eliminated.

[0023] Undocking and stacking are eliminated. This reduces handling time.

[0024] The applicator can move freely within the racking system and reach every area. It is possible to supply both the top and bottom storage levels directly with food without any retrieval. When the applicator is mounted on the RBG-LAM (Rail-Mounted Storage and Retrieval System), lifting and unloading the tray is not considered retrieval in the traditional sense, where the load carrier leaves the racking system. The necessary relocation or retrieval steps for feeding are completely eliminated.

[0025] Preferably, the system further comprises a food silo, which is attached in particular to the LAM, and more preferably to its platform. The silo can be directly connected to the applicator.

[0026] The feed silo on the LAM, particularly on its platform, improves the efficiency and continuity of the feed supply. This reduces the need for manual intervention and ensures a constant supply of food to the insects. It saves time and effort because the feed is brought to the insects, not the other way around. With appropriate silo dimensions, the RBG can operate autonomously for extended periods without needing to be refilled. The silo on the LAM can be filled from an upper position in the racking system, which also facilitates cleaning and maintenance of the LAM's equipment.

[0027] Preferably, the applicator is arranged above a platform of the RBG-LAM, and in particular is mounted movably along the platform.

[0028] A movable applicator mounted above the RBG-LAM platform enables precise and flexible nutrient distribution, making insect feeding even more efficient, needs-based, and, in particular, more uniform. The applicator's position above the platform allows for gravity feeding. The LAM has a low-profile design.

[0029] Preferably, the applicator is designed to distribute the food as needed, in particular evenly, over the insects located in one of the trays.

[0030] The even distribution of food over the insects in a tray ensures optimal nutrition, resulting in more uniform and healthier insect growth. Uneven weight distribution during growth within the rearing container is avoided. Preferably, the applicator further comprises at least one of the following components: a vision system; a heat source; and / or a gripper.

[0031] By integrating components such as a vision system, a heat source and / or a gripper, the applicator can take on additional tasks, e.g. monitoring the health of the insects, providing heat and handling objects, which increases the automation and efficiency of the system.

[0032] Preferably, the system further comprises a conveying system designed to transport the insects to and from the shelf arrangement, wherein the conveying system is in particular arranged above the shelf and passes through the shelf arrangement.

[0033] A conveyor system that transports the insects to and from the shelving unit optimizes material flow and increases the efficiency of the entire rearing process. Positioning the insects above the shelving unit and allowing them to pass through it maximizes space utilization and improves the transport route.

[0034] Preferably, the shelf is designed for multi-deep storage of the trays.

[0035] The multi-deep storage trays increase the storage capacity within the racking system, allowing more insects to be raised in a limited space. Storage density is maximized.

[0036] Preferably, the system also has a housing that completely, and in particular tightly, surrounds the shelf arrangement.

[0037] A housing that completely and tightly encloses the shelving unit protects the insects and the equipment from external influences and contamination, thus improving hygiene and control over breeding conditions. Preferably, the shelving unit is a storage lift.

[0038] The use of a storage lift within the racking system enables fast and efficient vertical movement of the trays, reducing access times and optimizing tray handling. The footprint is extremely small.

[0039] Preferably, the system also includes an air conditioning device, which is provided in particular within the rack arrangement and is located above the rack, and even more preferably within the housing.

[0040] An air conditioning system within the rack system ensures optimal environmental conditions for insect rearing, leading to improved insect health and productivity. An optional heat source on the applicator mounted on the LAM can also be integrated into the air conditioning system to achieve the desired climate control within the rack system.

[0041] Preferably each of the trays has: a horizontally surrounding frame and an insert, wherein the frame preferably never leaves the rack arrangement and wherein the conveying system and the RBG-LAM are set up to handle the inserts (e.g. lifting, inserting and transporting).

[0042] The horizontal frame of the trays remains in the racking system, while the trays are handled by the conveyor system and the RBG-LAM. This reduces wear on the trays and allows for more efficient handling and cleaning of the trays. Insect harvesting can be carried out at a remote location without moving the trays out of the racking system.

[0043] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Exemplary embodiments are shown in the drawings and are explained in more detail in the following description. The drawings show:

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of a system for the automated rearing of insects;

[0045] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a shelf arrangement;

[0046] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the shelf arrangement of Fig. 2;

[0047] Fig. 4 shows a top view of the shelf arrangement of Fig. 2; and

[0048] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a food applicator on an RBG-LAM.

[0049] The present disclosure relates generally to a system 10 for the industrial rearing of insects, which are used, for example, as animal feed (in livestock farming) or as a protein source, wherein an automatically operated (storage) rack arrangement 12 is used in which the insects are stored in (long) trays 16 in the rack 14 during the rearing period. In particular, it relates to the automation of the feeding process that takes place within the rack arrangement 12.

[0050] Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of a system 10 for the industrial rearing of insects. The system 10 comprises a racking arrangement 12. The racking arrangement 12 has one or more shelves 14, which are configured for storing a plurality of trays 16, and at least one storage and retrieval machine (SRM) 18. The racking arrangement 12 may also include an air conditioning unit 20 and / or a feed silo 22, which serves as a supply for insect feed. The system 10 may also include a conveying system 24 and / or a control unit 26. The racking arrangement 12 may be implemented as a storage lift 28. The racking arrangement 12 may be arranged in a housing 30, which is preferably (hermetically) closed. The conveying system 24 may pass through the housing 30 and through the racking arrangement 12. The Lagerlift 28 is an automated storage system used in intralogistics to efficiently manage and store goods.Storage lifts 28 are computer-controlled systems that automatically store and retrieve goods. This reduces manual labor and increases efficiency. By storing goods vertically, storage lifts 28 make optimal use of available space. This is particularly advantageous in warehouses with limited space. Storage lifts 28 allow quick and direct access to stored goods. This reduces access times and improves productivity. Goods can be presented to an operator (not shown) at an ergonomically convenient height via an access panel (not shown), reducing physical strain and increasing workplace safety. In this application, operators and access panels are not required. Storage lifts 28 can be equipped with a warehouse management system (WMS) and / or an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, e.g.to optimize inventory management and improve information flow.

[0051] A typical example of a vertical lift module (VLM) is a vertically oriented lift module (VLM) in which the shelves 14 are arranged vertically and accessed via a motorized platform (load handling unit, LMU) that transports the trays 16. This enables efficient and organized storage and retrieval of the trays 16. Vertical lift modules are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, retail, the automotive industry, and anywhere high storage density and fast access times are required. The general functionality and design of vertical lift modules are described, for example, in the "Whitepaper 2 / 2019" entitled "STORAGE LIFTS - Functionality - Variants - Applications," which can be downloaded from the SSI Schäfer website (www.ssi-schaefer.com). This document explains the different functionalities of vertical lift modules in more detail.

[0052] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the racking arrangement 12, which by way of example comprises three (double-sided) storage lifts 28-1 to 28-3 arranged in a row. It is understood that more or fewer storage lifts 28 can be provided, in particular also just a single storage lift 28 (not shown). Fig. 3 shows a side view of the racking arrangement 12 of Fig. 2, looking along a longitudinal direction X into a racking aisle 32 between the racks 14. Fig. 4 shows a top view of the racking arrangement 12 of Fig. 2. The longitudinal direction X, a transverse direction Z, and a vertical direction Y are illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3 in a manner customary in intralogistics and form a Cartesian coordinate system. The following description is given with simultaneous reference to Figs. 2 to 4.

[0053] The storage lifts 28 are shown as double-sided, with the shelves 14 arranged to the left and right of the aisle 32. It is understood that one or more of the storage lifts 28 could also be single-sided, with a shelf 14 provided on only one side of the aisle 32. The shelves 14 are shown as double-deep storage of the trays 16, with two trays 16 stored one behind the other in the transverse direction Z within the shelf 14. It is understood that the shelves 14 could alternatively be configured for single-deep or multi-deep storage of the trays 16. Figure 2 shows an example of six separate shelves 14, with three shelves 14 arranged to the left and three shelves 14 to the right of the aisle 32. It is understood that several of the shelves 14 (particularly in the longitudinal direction X) can be connected to form a single shelf 14. The shelves 14 are arranged in a stationary position.The shelving units 14 comprise an (outer) frame, which can be formed from vertical posts 15 (in the Y direction) and horizontal crossbeams (in the X and Z directions) as well as diagonal stiffening struts (in the XY and YZ planes). The frame also includes (shelf) supports, such as support brackets, which are designed to hold and store the shelves 16 within the shelving units 14.

[0054] The shelves 14 define the storage locations 34 (see Fig. 3). The storage locations 34 are arranged vertically above one another. The storage locations 34 preferably have a minimal distance between them in the vertical Y-direction to allow for the highest possible storage density. The distances can be chosen to be small because the insects do not grow beyond the shelves 16 during their growth. The shelves 16 can preferably be closed with a lid (not shown) to prevent the insects from escaping (and mixing with each other).

[0055] Figure 2 shows three (stationary) stacker cranes 18-1 to 18-3 by way of example, because three storage lifts 28 are also provided. It is understood that the racks 14 of the three storage lifts 28-1 to 28-3 could be served by one or more stacker cranes 18 that are movable in the X-direction. Each stacker crane 18 has a load handling device (LHD) 36, which is configured to be moved (at least) in the vertical Y-direction. The LHD 36 comprises a (lifting) platform 38 (see Figure 5). The platform 38 is configured to receive and transport one or more of the trays 16 (depending on the storage depth), in particular between the storage locations 34 and interfaces with the conveyor system 24, which is preferably arranged above the racks 14. The conveyor system 24 can, for example, be implemented by one or more (modularly designed) belt conveyors.The conveyor system 24 can generally include continuous conveyors (roller conveyors, chain conveyors, belt conveyors, overhead conveyors, etc.) and / or discontinuous conveyors (FTF, AGV, AMR, drones, etc.).

[0056] The (RBG-) LAM 36 is configured to store the trays 16 horizontally in the transverse direction Z into the storage locations 34 and to retrieve them from the storage locations 34. For this purpose, telescopic arms can be used, for example, which move in the Z direction into the area of ​​the racks 14 and can then grasp the trays 16 and move them onto the platform 38.

[0057] The air conditioning unit 20 (including ventilation) can also be arranged in an upper area of ​​the racking arrangement 12 or the storage lifts 28, whereby a single air conditioning unit 20 can suffice for several of the racking arrangements 14 or the storage lifts 28. An optional heat source of the applicator 44 on the LAM 36 can be integrated into the air conditioning unit to provide the desired climate control for the racking arrangement 12.

[0058] The racking arrangement 12 can be arranged within an enclosure 30. The enclosure 30 completely and, in particular, hermetically surrounds the racking arrangement 12. The enclosure 30 is designed to allow the conveying system 24 to pass through without compromising its seal. Figure 2 shows three enclosures 30 by way of example, with a separate enclosure 30 being provided for each of the storage lifts 28. The enclosure 30 restricts the volume within which the growth conditions must be controlled. Furthermore, the enclosure 30 minimizes the risk of contamination. The space within the enclosure 30 can be easily inspected. The trays 16 can be trough-shaped containers, which may be open at the top. The trays 16 are designed to be stored in the storage locations 34. The trays 16 can have components on their short side walls that correspond to the shelf supports.The trays 16 can have a (horizontally surrounding) frame, in particular made of metal, which is designed to receive one or more inserts 40. The inserts 40 can be made of plastic. The inserts 40 can also be trough-shaped. The inserts 40 can be inserted into the (tray) frame in a form-fitting manner. The inserts 40 can be moved separately from the trays 16. The inserts 40 can be moved independently of the tray 16 using the conveyor system 24, so that the trays 16 can always remain within the racking arrangement 12 or the storage location 28. Within the racking arrangement 12, the inserts 40 preferably remain within the trays 16, in particular to ensure safe handling and movement with the LAM 36. It is understood that it is also possible to configure the trays 16 so that they too can be moved on the conveyor system 24.In this case, the trays 16 can also be removed from the shelf arrangement 12, for example, to harvest the insects after the growth phase has been completed (at a different, separate location). It is understood that instead of trays 16, other ordinary load carriers can also be used as rearing containers, such as ordinary plastic storage containers measuring 400 x 600 x 400 mm³ or pallets.

[0059] The top view in Fig. 4 illustrates a possible route of the conveyor system 24 through the rack arrangement 12. A material flow is indicated by arrows 42. The trays 16 or inserts 40 can be exchanged between the conveyor system 24 and the racking system 18.

[0060] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of part of one of the storage lifts 28. In this case, the storage lift 36 is further equipped with a food applicator 44. The applicator 44 is designed to distribute insect food (not illustrated) over the insects (not illustrated) located in the tray 16. The distribution is indicated in Fig. 5 by arrows 46. The applicator 44 can be arranged (vertically) above the platform 38. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the applicator 44 is plate-like and extends substantially over the entire surface of the tray 16, which is positioned on the platform 38. The platform 38 can also be plate-like. In Fig. 5, the platform 38 is smaller, for example, rib-like.

[0061] The applicator 44 can be designed like a rain shower to apply the (preferably liquid) food. In this case, the applicator is plate-like with a multitude of openings. Alternatively, the applicator 44 can be frame-like, similar to a clothes hanger, extending essentially in the transverse Z direction (not illustrated), and in this case, preferably movable in the X direction. The food can be sprayed onto the insects. In this case, the applicator 44 can be connected to a pneumatic line (not illustrated). A demand-based and / or uniform distribution of the food over the insects in the tray 16 is advantageous because the insects then grow uniformly. This results in a uniform weight distribution.

[0062] The applicator 44 can further comprise one of the following components: a vision system; a heat source; and / or a gripper. The vision system can include one or more cameras and / or lighting devices to generate (real-time) images of the insects within the tray 16, which can be evaluated using image processing programs, for example, to determine the growth stage of the insects. Furthermore, diseased insects can be identified and subsequently sorted out with the gripper. The heat source can additionally support the growth of the insects.

[0063] In Fig. 5, the applicator 44 is attached to the RBG 18, and in particular to the LAM 36. Alternatively or additionally, one or more (connected) storage locations 34 can be equipped with the applicator 44. In this case, the storage locations 34 become a rack-integrated food supply station. This station is configured to supply the trays 16 with food, whereby the storage locations 34 required for the station are not used for storing the trays 16. The station can be arranged at any height within a rack column. The applicator 44 is connected to the food silo 22. The silo 22 represents a self-contained storage unit. The food silo 22 can be positioned on the LAM 36 or at another location on the RBG 18. This means that the RBG 18 carries the silo 22 while the LAM 36 is moved. Silo 22 is dimensioned so that several of the trays 16 can be supplied with food before silo 22 is empty.Alternatively, the silo 22 can also be located at a different position within the racking arrangement 12, for example, on top of one or more of the shelves 14. In this case, the LAM 36 and / or the feeding station are connected to the applicator 44, for example, via (flexible) hoses (not illustrated). Alternatively, pipes can also be used. It is understood that not only food but also medication can be supplied in this way. Filling the silo on the LAM 36 can take place at an upper position in the racking arrangement 12, where cleaning and maintenance of the LAM 36's components can also be carried out.

[0064] The applicator 44 can also be movably attached to the LAM 36 in the transverse direction Z, in order to be moved into the storage locations 34. In this case, the trays 16 are not moved from storage location 34 to platform 38, but remain in storage location 34 itself during the food supply.

[0065] The applicator 44 can also include a dosing system (not shown). The dosing system ensures that each larval unit receives the correct amount of food. This is important to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding and to guarantee optimal growth conditions. There are different types of dosing systems. A volumetric doser dispenses a fixed volume of food. A gravimetric doser dispenses food in a precise quantity based on its weight. A time-controlled doser dispenses food for a set period of time to achieve a specific quantity.

[0066] Additional and (optionally) installed sensors and control systems can continuously monitor the amount and distribution of feed in the rearing containers. They can also control environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. For example, fill level sensors can monitor the feed level in the rearing containers and send signals when refilling is needed. Humidity sensors ensure that the feed does not become too moist to prevent mold growth. Temperature sensors control the temperature to ensure optimal conditions for larval growth. Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are central control units that can coordinate all feeding and environmental control. They can be programmed to regulate the feeding schedule, quantity, and frequency. In the case of automatic schedules, feeding times and quantities can be pre-programmed.Adjustments can be made in real time. Based on sensor data, System 10 can make adjustments to optimize feeding. System 10 can record data on feeding quantities and environmental conditions to monitor and analyze larval efficiency and growth. One or more of the aforementioned features can optionally be included in Applicator 44.

[0067] The applicator 44 can be serviced regularly and easily, for example in the area above shelves 14. Regular cleaning of the applicator 44 can be carried out directly on site to avoid blockages and hygiene problems.

[0068] Regular inspection of the mechanical and electronic components serves to detect and resolve problems early.

[0069] It goes without saying that instead of a storage lift 28, any other automated storage system, such as an automated high-bay warehouse or a paternoster rack, to name just a few examples, could also be used. Industrial insect breeding system, shelving arrangement, shelf, shelf post, tray, storage and retrieval machine (SRM), climate control unit, feed silo, conveyor system, control unit, storage lift, housing, (shelf) aisle, (shelf) storage location, (SRM) load handling device (LHD), platform, insert, material flow, feed applicator

Claims

Claims 1. Automated insect rearing system (10) comprising: a racking arrangement (12) comprising: a rack (14) having a plurality of rack storage locations (34) for storing a corresponding plurality of trays (16), each of the trays (16) being configured to hold insects during a rearing period; a storage and retrieval machine (SRM) (18) comprising a vertically movable load handling device (LMD) (36) configured to transport the trays (16) and to horizontally store and retrieve them in and out of the storage locations (34); and a feed applicator (44) configured to distribute insect feed over the insects located in one of the trays (16); wherein the applicator (44) is arranged: on the SRM LMD (36) or in at least one of the storage locations (34) which is configured as a feed station.

2. System (10) according to claim 1, further comprising a food silo (22) which is preferably attached to the LAM (36), and in particular to its platform (38).

3. System (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the applicator (44) is arranged above a platform (38) of the RBG-LAM (36) and is preferably movably mounted along the platform (38).

4. System (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the applicator (44) is configured to distribute the food as required and / or evenly over the insects located in one of the trays (16).

5. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the applicator (44) further comprises at least one of the following components: a vision system; a heat source; and / or a gripper.

6. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a conveying system (24) configured to transport the insects to and from the shelf arrangement (12), wherein the conveying system (24) is preferably arranged above the shelf (14) and passes through the shelf arrangement (12).

7. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the shelf (14) is configured for multi-deep storage of the trays (16).

8. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a housing (30) that completely surrounds the shelf arrangement (12).

9. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the rack arrangement (12) is a storage lift (28).

10. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which further comprises an air conditioning device (20) which is preferably provided within the shelf arrangement (12) and which may be arranged above the shelf (14), and preferably within the housing (30).

11. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each of the trays (16) comprises: a horizontally circumferential frame and an insert (40), wherein the frame preferably never leaves the shelf arrangement (12) and wherein the conveyor system (24) and the RBG-LAM (36) are configured to handle the inserts (40).

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