System and method for producing honey

Abstract

Described herein is an artificial honeycomb cassette (100) including a pair of separable modules (110), each separable module (110) including: an outer face (111) and an opposite inner face (112); and a plurality of artificial honeycomb cells (120), each artificial honeycomb cell (120) extending from an outer end (121), at the outer face (111), to an inner end (122), at the inner face (112), wherein the inner end (122) of each artificial honeycomb cell (120) is partially closed by a respective base structure (123); wherein, the separable modules (110) are configured such that, when the separable modules (110) are joined along their inner faces (112), the respective base structures (123) mate to substantially close respective inner ends (122) of the artificial honeycomb cells (120).

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING HONEYCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to Australian provisional patent application number 2024903854, filed on 22 November 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to honey production. In particular, the present invention relates to devices, systems and methods for use in producing honey.BACKGROUND

[0003] Background information described in this specification is background information known to the inventors. Reference to this information as background information is not an acknowledgment or suggestion that this background information is prior art or is common general knowledge to a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0004] Beekeeping, for producing honey, typically involves the use of honeycomb frames removably mounted within a hive box housing a colony of bees. The frames are used to support honeycomb built by the bees and may include artificial honeycomb foundations. In operation, bees build their honeycomb within a frame, fill cells of the comb with honey and cap the filled cells with wax. Honey harvesting then involves removing the frames from the hive box, uncapping the cells and extracting the honey. Extracting the honey may be variously performed by drip extraction, centrifuging the frames, and / or pressing the honeycomb. An alternative system is the flow-type hive box, which includes a series of preformed honeycomb cells within frames. The frames include a mechanism to vertically, longitudinally split the cells into a series of columns of zigzagging half cells. To extract the honey, the cells are split open to allow honey within to flow, under gravity, down through the hive and out of a tap, without the need to remove the frames from the hive box. The extracted honey may then be filtered to remove any residual beeswax, or other impurities.

[0005] Existing honey extraction techniques can be time consuming, be inconvenient, result in lost honey, and / or result in excessive contamination of honey with debris.Existing honey extraction techniques are also often disruptive to the entire hive or at least an entire frame of honeycomb.

[0006] Accordingly, the inventors of the present invention identified that there remains a need for more convenient and efficient honey harvesting systems and methods, or at least a useful alternative to existing systems.SUMMARY

[0007] According to aspects of the present disclosure there is provided devices, systems and methods for use in producing, harvesting and extracting honey.

[0008] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules, each separable module including: an outer face and an opposite inner face; and a plurality of artificial honeycomb cells, each artificial honeycomb cell extending from an outer end, at the outer face, to an inner end, at the inner face, wherein the inner end of each artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by a respective base structure; wherein, the separable modules are configured such that, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces, the respective base structures mate to substantially close respective inner ends of the artificial honeycomb cells.

[0009] In some embodiments, a portion of the inner end of each artificial honeycomb cell is closed by a respective base structure. In some embodiments, the separable modules are configured to be separably joined along their inner faces to define a joined interface; and, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces, the respective base structures are configured to mate to substantially close a remaining portion of the inner end of respective artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, each artificial honeycomb cell defines a respective cell axis; and, when the separable modules are separated, the cells are split along the joined plane, substantially transverse to the cell axis, such that the remaining portion of the inner end of each artificial honeycomb is opened.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces, each artificial honeycomb cell includes a base surface at the base of the inner end of the respective artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, the base surfaceis one or more of: a concave surface; a faceted surface; a rhomboidal surface; a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface; and a substantially flat surface. In some embodiments, each base structure, of each separable module, defines a portion of a base surface at the inner end of the respective artificial honeycomb cell of the respective separable module. In some embodiments, each base structure, of each separable module, is configured to define a remaining portion of the base surface at the inner end of a corresponding artificial honeycomb cell of the other separable module.

[0011] In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells, of each separable module, are coaxial with the artificial honeycomb cells, of the other separable module, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells, of each separable module, are offset relative to the artificial honeycomb cells, of the other separable module, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces.

[0012] In some embodiments, each separable module includes a peripheral structure for mounting the separable module to: a frame of a hive box; or a carrier of an extraction device. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure of each separable module is configured to: mount the artificial honeycomb cassette to the frame, in an operation orientation, wherein the separable modules are joined along their inner faces; and mount the respective separable module to the carrier, in an extraction orientation, wherein the separable modules are separated from each other. In some embodiments, the operation orientation and the extraction orientation are inverse.

[0013] In some embodiments, the pair of separable modules includes a first separable module and a second separable module. In some embodiments, the first separable module and the second separable module are interchangeable with each other.

[0014] According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules, each separable module including: an outer face and an opposite inner face; a plurality of artificial honeycomb cells, each artificial honeycomb cell extending from an outer end, at the outer face, to an inner end, at the inner face; and a mounting structure configured for mounting to a frame in an operation orientation and for mounting to an extraction device in an extraction orientation.

[0015] In some embodiments, in the operation orientation, the separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, in the extraction orientation, the inner faces of the separable modules are separated from each other. In some embodiments, the mounting structure of each module includes a peripheral flange around at least a portion of the respective module. In some embodiments, the peripheral flange of each module extends substantially flush with the outer face of the respective module.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided an artificial honeycomb cassette including: a first separable module and a second separable module; the first separable module including: a first outer face and an opposite first inner face; and a plurality of first artificial honeycomb cells, each first artificial honeycomb cell extending from an outer end, at the first outer face, to an inner end, at the first inner face, wherein the inner end of each first artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by a respective first base structure; and the second separable module including: a second outer face and an opposite second inner face; and a plurality of second artificial honeycomb cells, each second artificial honeycomb cell extending from an outer end, at the second outer face, to an inner end, at the second inner face, wherein the inner end of each second artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by a respective second base structure; wherein the first and second base structures are configured to mate to substantially close respective inner ends of the first and second artificial honeycomb cells when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces.

[0017] In some embodiments, each of the artificial honeycomb cells includes a base surface. In some embodiments, the base surface is at the base of the inner end of the respective artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, the base surface is configured to emulate the natural structure of a beehive. In some embodiments, the base surface is a concave surface. In some embodiments, the base surface is a faceted surface. In some embodiments, the base surface is a rhomboidal surface. In some embodiments, the base surface is a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface. In some embodiments, the base surface is a substantially flat surface.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first and second separable modules are a pair of separable modules. In some embodiments, the first and second separable modules are corresponding modules. In some embodiments, the respective separable modules are interchangeable. In some embodiments, the first separable module is identical to the second separable module. In some embodiments, the first separable module is mirrored to the second separable module. In some embodiments, the first separable module is keyed to the second separable module. In some embodiments, each separable modules includes projections for keyed joining with the other separable module. In some embodiments, the base structures of each module are keyed for joining with the other separable module. In some embodiments, the base structures of each module are keyed for joining with the cells of the other separable module.

[0019] In some embodiments, each separable module includes a plurality of rows and columns of respective artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells are alike. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells, of each separable module, tessellate with each other. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells are substantially hexagonal in cross section. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells are configured to emulate the natural structure of a beehive. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells are substantially circular in cross section. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cells have alternative cross sections and geometries.

[0020] In some embodiments, the base structures tessellate. In some embodiments, the first base structures tessellate with the second base structures. In some embodiments, the base structures are generally trapezoidal. In some embodiments, the base structures are generally hexagonal. In some embodiments, the base structures are generally semicircular. In some embodiments, the base structures have alternative geometries.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first outer face defines a first plane, and the second outer face defines a second plane. In some embodiments, the first and second plane are substantially parallel when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the first artificial honeycomb cells extend normal to the first outer face. In some embodiments, the first artificial honeycomb cells extend at a cell angle from the first outer face to the first inner face. In someembodiments, the second artificial honeycomb cells extend normal to the second outer face. In some embodiments, the second artificial honeycomb cells extend at a cell angle from the second outer face to the second inner face. In some embodiments, the cell angle is configured to emulate the natural structure of a beehive. In some embodiments, the cell angle is between approximately 5° and approximately 15°. In some embodiments, the cell angle is approximately 11 °. In some embodiments, the cell angle is an alternative angle. In some embodiments, each cell extends at the same cell angle. In some embodiments, each cell extends at different cell angles.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first artificial honeycomb cells define a first axis extending from the first outer face to the first inner face. In some embodiments, first axis of the first artificial honeycomb cells is substantially orthogonal to the first plane. In some embodiments, first axis of the first artificial honeycomb cells is angled relative to the normal of the first plane. In some embodiments, the second artificial honeycomb cells define a second axis extending from the second outer face to the second inner face. In some embodiments, second axis of the second artificial honeycomb cells is substantially orthogonal to the second plane. In some embodiments, second axis of the second artificial honeycomb cells is angled relative to the normal of the second plane.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first axis and the second axis are substantially parallel when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the first axis of respective first artificial honeycomb cells is substantially coaxial with the second axis of corresponding respective second artificial honeycomb cells when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the first artificial honeycomb cells are offset from the second artificial honeycomb cells such that they are not coaxial when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces.

[0024] In some embodiments, the respective inner ends of the first and second artificial honeycomb cells are split open when the first and second separable modules are separated. In some embodiments, the first and second separable module define a joined interface along their respective inner faces when they are joined together. In some embodiments the joined interface is generally parallel to the first outer face and the second outer face when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the first and second separable modules areseparable along the joined interface such that the first and second artificial honeycomb cells are split along the joined interface substantially transverse to the axis defined by each of the first and second artificial honeycomb cells.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first separable module includes a plurality of first rows and first columns of first artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the first artificial honeycomb cells tessellate with each other. In some embodiments alternating first rows are horizontally offset from each other. In some embodiments, alternating first columns are vertically offset from each other. In some embodiments, the second separable module includes a plurality of second rows and second columns of second artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the second artificial honeycomb cells tessellate with each other. In some embodiments alternating second rows are horizontally offset from each other. In some embodiments, alternating second columns are vertically offset from each other. In some embodiments, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces, the first artificial honeycomb cells are substantially aligned with the second artificial honeycomb cells.

[0026] In some embodiments, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces, the first artificial honeycomb cells are offset from the second artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the first artificial honeycomb cells are offset from the second artificial honeycomb cells by a horizontal offset. In some embodiments, the horizontal offset is proportional to a width of the artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the horizontal offset is approximately half of the width of the artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the horizontal offset includes a portion of a cell dividing wall thickness. In some embodiments, the first artificial honeycomb cells are offset from the second artificial honeycomb cells by a vertical offset. In some embodiments, the vertical offset is proportional to a height of the artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the vertical offset is approximately a third of the height of the artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the vertical offset is approximately two thirds of the height of the artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the vertical offset includes a portion of a cell dividing wall thickness.

[0027] In some embodiments, the respective outer ends of the first and second artificial honeycomb cells are open along the respective outer faces of the first and second separable modules. In some embodiments, the respective inner ends of the first andsecond artificial honeycomb cells are partially open when the first and second separable modules are separated.

[0028] In some embodiments, each first base structure is substantially flush with the first inner face. In some embodiments, each first base structure is substantially flush with the respective inner end. In some embodiments, each first base structure extends out from the first inner face. In some embodiments, each first base structure extends out from the respective inner end. In some embodiments, each second base structure is substantially flush with the second inner face. In some embodiments, each second base structure is substantially flush with the respective inner end. In some embodiments, each second base structure extends out from the second inner face. In some embodiments, each first base structure extends out from the respective inner end.

[0029] In some embodiments, each first base structure projects out from the respective first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, each first base structure extends from the respective first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, each first base structure extends into the respective first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, each first base structure does not extend into the respective first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, a portion of the inner end of each first artificial honeycomb cell is closed by the respective first base structure. In some embodiments, the portion, closed by the respective first base structure, is approximately half of the of the inner end of the respective first artificial honeycomb cell.

[0030] In some embodiments, a remaining portion of the respective inner ends of the first artificial honeycomb cells remains open when the first and second separable modules are separated. In some embodiments, the open remaining portion, when the first and second separable modules are separated, is approximately half of the inner end of the respective first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, the open remaining portion is an alternative portion of the inner end of the respective first artificial honeycomb cell.

[0031] In some embodiments, the inner end of each first artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by a corresponding second base structure of a corresponding second artificial honeycomb cell, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the inner end of each first artificial honeycomb cell is substantially closed by a corresponding second basestructure of a corresponding second artificial honeycomb cell, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the corresponding second base structure projects into the respective first artificial honeycomb cell, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces, to substantially close the remaining portion of the respective inner end. In some embodiments, the corresponding second base structure interfaces with an inner end face of the walls defining the respective first artificial honeycomb cell to substantially close the remaining portion of the inner end of the respective first artificial honeycomb cell.

[0032] In some embodiments, the inner end of each first artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by corresponding cooperating second base structures of corresponding second artificial honeycomb cells, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the inner end of each first artificial honeycomb cell is substantially closed by corresponding cooperating second base structures of corresponding second artificial honeycomb cells, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the corresponding cooperating second base structures interface with an inner end face of the walls defining the respective first artificial honeycomb cell to substantially close the remaining portion of the inner end of the respective first artificial honeycomb cell.

[0033] In some embodiments, each of the cooperating second base structures substantially close a portion of the remaining portion of the inner end of the first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, each of the cooperating second base structures substantially close approximately half of the remaining portion of the inner end of the first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, one of the cooperating second base structures closes approximately a third of the remaining portion, and the other cooperating second base structure closes approximately two thirds of the remaining portion of the inner end of the respective first artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, the corresponding cooperating second base structures are adjacent second base structures. In some embodiments, the corresponding cooperating second base structures are adjoining second base structures.

[0034] In some embodiments, each second base structure projects out from the respective second artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, each second base structure extends into the respective second artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, a portion of the inner end of each second artificial honeycomb cell is closed by the respective second base structure. In some embodiments, the portion, closed by the respective second base structure, is approximately half of the of the inner end of the respective second artificial honeycomb cell.

[0035] In some embodiments, a remaining portion of the respective inner ends of the second artificial honeycomb cells remains open when the first and second separable modules are separated. In some embodiments, the open remaining portion, when the first and second separable modules are separated, is approximately half of the inner end of the respective second artificial honeycomb cell.

[0036] In some embodiments, the inner end of each second artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by a corresponding first base structure of a corresponding first artificial honeycomb cell, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the inner end of each second artificial honeycomb cell is substantially closed by a corresponding first base structure of a corresponding first artificial honeycomb cell, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the corresponding first base structure projects into the respective second artificial honeycomb cell, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces, to substantially close the remaining portion of the respective inner end. In some embodiments, the corresponding first base structure interfaces with an inner end face of the walls defining the respective second artificial honeycomb cell to substantially close the remaining portion of the inner end of the respective second artificial honeycomb cell.

[0037] In some embodiments, the inner end of each second artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by corresponding cooperating first base structures of corresponding first artificial honeycomb cells, when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the inner end of each second artificial honeycomb cell is substantially closed by corresponding cooperating first base structures of corresponding first artificial honeycomb cells, whenthe first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the corresponding cooperating first base structures interface with an inner end face of the walls defining the respective second artificial honeycomb cell to substantially close the remaining portion of the inner end of the respective second artificial honeycomb cell.

[0038] In some embodiments, each of the cooperating first base structures substantially close a portion of the remaining portion of the inner end of the second artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, each of the cooperating first base structures substantially close approximately half of the remaining portion of the inner end of the second artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, one of the cooperating first base structures closes approximately a third of the remaining portion, and the other cooperating first base structure closes approximately two thirds of the remaining portion of the inner end of the respective second artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, the corresponding cooperating first base structures are adjacent first base structures. In some embodiments, the corresponding cooperating first base structures are adjoining first base structures.

[0039] In alternative embodiments, the open portions, closed portions and remaining portions of the inner ends of respective first and second cells and base structures have alternative dimensions, alternative proportions and alternative relative ratios thereof.

[0040] In some embodiments, the base structure of each first and / or second artificial honeycomb cell defines a portion of a base surface at the base of the respective artificial honeycomb cell. In some embodiments, the base surface is outwardly facing in the direction of the respective outer face of the respective module. In some embodiments, the portion of the base surface is substantially flat. In some embodiments, the portion of the base surface is concave. In some embodiments, the portion of the base surface is a spherical sector surface. In some embodiments, the portion of the base surface is faceted. In some embodiments, the portion of the base surface is trapezoidal. In some embodiments, the portion of the base surface includes a triangular facet and a quadrilateral facet.

[0041] In some embodiments, the base structure of each first and / or second artificial honeycomb cell defines an opposite surface. In some embodiments, the opposite surface is inwardly facing, away from the respective outer face of the respectivemodule. In some embodiments, the opposite surface is substantially flat. In some embodiments, the opposite surface is concave. In some embodiments, the opposite surface is a spherical sector surface. In some embodiments, the opposite surface is faceted. In some embodiments, the opposite surface is trapezoidal. In some embodiments, the opposite surface includes a triangular facet and a quadrilateral facet.

[0042] In some embodiments, a remaining portion of the base surface of each respective artificial honeycomb cell is defined by one or more opposite base structures when the modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the base surface of each respective artificial honeycomb cell is defined by one or more portions of opposite surfaces defined by respective opposite base structures when the modules are joined along their inner faces. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the base surface is substantially flat. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of base surface is concave. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the base surface is a spherical sector surface. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the base surface is faceted. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the base surface is trapezoidal. In some embodiments, the remaining portion of the base surface includes a triangular facet and a quadrilateral facet.

[0043] In some embodiments, each base surface is substantially flat. In some embodiments, each base surface is at least partially concave. In some embodiments, each base surface is hemispherical. In some embodiments, each base surface is faceted. In some embodiments, each base surface is a rhomboidal base surface. In some embodiments, each base surface is a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface. In alternative embodiments, the base surfaces, opposite surfaces and portions may have alternative shapes and geometries, and combinations thereof.

[0044] In some embodiments, each base structure is configured to define a portion of a base surface in one direction. In some embodiments, each base structure, of each cell, is configured to define a portion of the base surface of the respective cell in one direction. In some embodiments, each base structure is configured to define an opposite portion of one or more opposite base surfaces in an opposite direction. In some embodiments, each base structure is configured to define a primary portion of an opposite base surface of one opposite cell and a secondary portion of an opposite basesurface of another opposite cell. In some embodiments, each base structure, of each cell, is configured to define half of the base structure of the respective cell in one direction; to define a third of an opposite base surface of one opposite cell; and to define two thirds of an opposite base surface of another opposite cell.

[0045] In some embodiments, each separable module includes a plurality of inner end structures along the respective inner face. In some embodiments, each inner end structure includes one or more respective base structures. In some embodiments, each inner end structure includes three respective base structures. In some embodiments, each inner end structure includes the base structure of three adjoining artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the inner end structure is rotationally symmetrical about a junction of the adjoining artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, the inner end structure is generally hexagonal. In some embodiments, the inner end structure is generally trapezoidal. In some embodiments, the inner end structure is generally triangular. In some embodiments, the inner end structure includes multiple facets. In some embodiments, the inner end structure includes alternating triangular facets and quadrilateral facets.

[0046] In some embodiments, the inner end structure is configured to define a portion of one or more base surfaces in one direction; and a portion of one or more opposite base surfaces in an opposite direction. In some embodiments, the inner end structure is configured to define a portion of three base surfaces in one direction; and a portion of three opposite base surfaces in an opposite direction. In some embodiments, the base surfaces in one direction are aligned with the opposite base surfaces in the opposite direction. In some embodiments, the base surfaces in one direction are offset with the opposite base surfaces in the opposite direction.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first separable module includes a plurality of first inner end structures along the first inner face. In some embodiments, the second separable module includes a plurality of second inner end structures along the second inner face. In some embodiments the first and second inner end structures are complementary. In some embodiments, the first inner end structures define first inner end recesses. In some embodiments, the second inner end structures define second inner end recesses. In some embodiments, the first inner end recesses are configured to receive the second inner end structures. In some embodiments, the second inner endrecesses are configured to receive the first inner end structures. In some embodiments, the first and second inner end structures are configured to tessellate when the first and second separable modules are joined along their inner faces.

[0048] In some embodiments, each separable module includes a peripheral structure. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure is a peripheral flange around at least a portion of the outer face. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure includes one or more projections from the periphery of the separable module. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure is configured for mounting the separable module to a frame. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure is configured for mounting the cassette to the frame. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure is configured to be received by a frame. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure includes a module key configured to cooperate with a frame key for mounting the cassette in a frame. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure includes a cutout or recess corresponding to a projection of the frame. In some embodiments both the first and second separable modules include a peripheral structure. In some embodiments, only the first or second separable module includes a peripheral structure. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure is configured for mounting the separable module to an extractor. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure is configured for mounting to a frame in an operation orientation. In some embodiments, the peripheral structure is configured for mounting to the extractor in an extraction orientation. In some embodiments, the operation orientation and the extraction orientation are inverse orientations.

[0049] In some embodiments, each separable module includes one or more peripheral ribs. In some embodiments, the peripheral ribs are configured to reinforce the separable module. In some embodiments, the peripheral ribs are configured to enable separation of the separable modules. In some embodiments, the peripheral ribs include an indent, defining a fulcrum point for separating the separable modules. In some embodiments, the peripheral ribs include a recess, defining a fulcrum point for separating the separable modules.

[0050] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a honey extraction system including an artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules; and a hive box for mounting the artificial honeycomb cassette in. In some embodiments, the system includes a plurality of artificial honeycomb cassettes. Insome embodiments, the system includes a frame for mounting the artificial honeycomb cassettes in the hive box. In some embodiments, the frame is retrofittable to an existing hive box. In some embodiments, the one or more cassettes are retrofittable to an existing frame.

[0051] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for use in honey production, the system including an artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules; and a frame insert configured to receive the artificial honeycomb cassette. In some embodiments, the frame insert is configured to be mounted to a frame. In some embodiments, the frame insert is configured to be retrofitted to an existing frame of a hive box. In some embodiments, the system includes a plurality of frame inserts. In some embodiments, the system includes a plurality of artificial honeycomb cassettes corresponding to a respective frame insert.

[0052] In some embodiments, the frame includes a plurality of apertures for respectively receiving the artificial honeycomb cassettes. In some embodiments, each aperture of the frame includes a frame key configured to cooperate with a module key for mounting the cassettes in the aperture. In some embodiments, each aperture includes a projection corresponding to a cutout or recess of the cassettes. In some embodiments, the projections are ramped projections. In some embodiments, the system includes a plurality of frames for mounting a plurality of artificial honeycomb cassettes.

[0053] In some embodiments, the system includes a honey extractor. In some embodiments, the honey extractor is a centrifugal honey extractor. In some embodiments, the extractor includes a carrier configured to receive one or more separable modules. In some embodiments the carrier is configured to receive a pair of separable modules. In some embodiments, the carrier includes receiving structures configured to receive peripheral structures of the respective separable modules. In some embodiments, the carrier is configured to hold the modules at an extraction orientation. In some embodiments, the extraction angle is proportional to a cell angle. In some embodiments, the extraction angle is between approximately 5° and approximately 15°. In some embodiments, the extraction angle is approximately 11 °. In some embodiments, the extraction angle is an alternative angle.

[0054] In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be cast (e.g., vacuum cast). In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be moulded (e.g., injection moulded). In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be, at least partially, subtractively manufactured (e.g., machined). In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be, at least partially, additively manufactured (e.g., 3D printed). In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be manufactured in the same, separate, or different manufacturing processes and combinations thereof.

[0055] In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be formed from a food safe material. In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be formed from a plastic (e.g., a thermoplastic). In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be formed from a resin (e.g., an epoxy resin or polyurethane resin). In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be formed from a metal (e.g., aluminium). In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be formed from a composite material. In some embodiments, the cassette, frame and / or carrier may be formed from the same or different materials, and combinations thereof.

[0056] According to another embodiment of the invention there is provided a method of producing honey, the method including the steps of: providing an artificial honeycomb cassette in a hive box, the artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules joined along respective inner faces, each separable module including a respective plurality of artificial honeycomb cells having open outer ends along respective outer faces of the separable modules; determining that one or more of the artificial honeycomb cells have been filled with honey and the open outer end capped; separating the separable modules, thereby opening respective inner ends of each artificial honeycomb cell; and extracting the honey from the one or more of the artificial honeycomb cells.

[0057] In some embodiments, the hive box is configured to house a colony of bees. In some embodiments, providing the artificial honeycomb cassette in the hive box includes mounting the artificial honeycomb in a frame. In some embodiments, the artificial honeycomb cassette is mounted, in the frame, in an operation orientation with theseparable modules joined along their inner faces and wherein their respective outer faces are outwardly directed from each other. In some embodiments, the method includes mounting multiple cassettes in the hive box. In some embodiments, the method includes mounting multiple frames in the hive box.

[0058] In some embodiments, the method includes extracting at least a portion of the honey from one or more of the artificial honeycomb cells without uncapping the outer end of the one or more of the artificial honeycomb cells. In some embodiments, extracting the honey includes centrifugally extracting the honey. In some embodiments, extracting the honey includes mounting the separated modules in a honey extractor. In some embodiments, a pair of separated modules are mounted in a carrier of a honey extractor. In embodiments, the separated modules are mounted in an extraction orientation with the respective inner faces separated and outwardly directed from each other. In some embodiments, extracting the honey includes centrifuging the separated modules. In some embodiments, the method includes extracting the honey substantially locally to the hive box. In some embodiments, the method includes transporting the artificial honeycomb cassette, from the hive box, before extracting the honey. In some embodiments, the method includes transporting the artificial honeycomb cassette with the separable sections joined along their inner faces.

[0059] Reference throughout this specification to “some embodiments” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “some embodiments” or “various embodiments” throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some, but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the following description and claims, any of the features of any one the embodiments may be used in any combination.

[0060] Further aspects of the present invention and further embodiments of the aspects described in the preceding paragraphs will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0062] FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of the separable modules of an artificial honeycomb cassette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of a frame and artificial honeycomb cassettes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIGURE 3 is a perspective view of an artificial honeycomb cassette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIGURE 4 is a rear view of an artificial honeycomb cassette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIGURE 5A is a front view of a first separable module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIGURE 5B is a rear view of a second separable module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIGURE 6A is a cross sectional view of the first separable module of figure 5A taken along line A’ -A”.

[0069] FIGURE 6B is a cross sectional view of the second separable module of figure 5B taken along line B’-B”.

[0070] FIGURE 7A is a rear view of the first separable module of figure 5A.

[0071] FIGURE 7B is a front view of the second separable module of figure 5B.

[0072] FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of a frame and artificial honeycomb cassettes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIGURE 9 is a perspective view of the separable modules of an artificial honeycomb cassette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIGURE 10 is a perspective view of a honey extractor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIGURE 11 is a perspective view of the inner face, of a separable module, showing the inner end structures according to an embodiment of the preset disclosure.

[0076] FIGURE 12 is an enlarged perspective view of an inner end structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIGURE 13 is a view of corresponding inner faces of a pair of separable modules according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIGURE 14 is a side view of an artificial honeycomb cassette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] FIGURE 15 is a front view of the artificial honeycomb cassette of figure 14.

[0080] FIGURE 16 is a partial, sectional view of corresponding inner end structures according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0081] FIGURE 17A is a perspective view of an artificial honeycomb cassette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0082] FIGURE 17B is a perspective view of the artificial honeycomb cassette of figure 17A with a hive tool being applied.

[0083] FIGURE 17C is a perspective view of the separated modules of the artificial honeycomb of figure 17A.

[0084] FIGURE 18A is a side view of the artificial honeycomb cassette of figure 17A.

[0085] Figure 18B is a cross sectional view of the artificial honeycomb cassette of figure 18A taken along line B-B.

[0086] FIGURE 19A is a rear perspective view of a frame and frame inserts according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] FIGURE 19B is a front perspective view of the frame and frame inserts of figure 19A.

[0088] FIGURE 19C is front perspective view of the frame and frame inserts of figure 19B, further including an artificial honeycomb cassette according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] FIGURE 19D is a front perspective view of the frame, frame insert and honeycomb cassette of figure 19C.

[0090] For ease of reference in the figures and throughout the description, corresponding features have been given corresponding reference numerals. In certain instances, reference numerals include a suffix of “a” or “b”, wherein the suffix “a” indicates that the feature generally corresponds to a first separable module and the suffix “b” indicates that the feature generally corresponds to a second separable module. Where a relevant reference numeral does not include a suffix, it may be applicable to the features of either, or both, of the first and second separable modules. For clarity, not all instances of each feature and not all features in each figure are referenced.

[0091] While the description is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed. The intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0092] As discussed above the practice of beekeeping generally involves a hive box for housing a colony of bees. Multiple frames, for supporting beeswax and honeycomb structures, are mounted within the hive box. The frames are generally rectangular and support honeycomb structures of cells built by the bees. The frames may include honeycomb foundations, for example, a sheet of pressed wax, or artificial honeycomb cells. In the production of honey, bees build their honeycomb and fill the cells with honey before capping off the cells with wax. Specifically, the bees deposit nectar into the cells, the nectar ripens into honey, and the bees cap the cells with wax, with the capping protecting and preserving the honey. Whilst specifically the bees deposit nectar into the cell which then ripens into honey, for ease of description herein, at times bees are referred to as depositing honey into cells. To harvest the honey, the frames ofcapped cells are removed, the cells uncapped, and the honey extracted. Typically, to extract the honey, multiple frames of uncapped cells are simultaneously centrifuged within a chamber. Honeycomb may also be pressed to extract honey.

[0093] As also discussed above, flow-type hive box frames include a series of zigzagging columns of half cells which, when aligned, form artificial honeycomb cells through the plane of the frame. Bees overlay the artificial honeycomb cells with wax and to fill the cells with honey. To harvest flow-type hive boxes, each frame includes a mechanism to vertically shift alternating columns of half cells relative to adjacent columns, thereby vertically, longitudinally splitting the cells. Honey may then flow, under gravity, down through the zigzagging channels of the hive into a catchment reservoir and / or tap.

[0094] There are inefficiencies and inconveniences with existing honey extraction techniques. Under conventional honey extraction processes, often the entire hive is disrupted by the removal, uncapping and / or splitting of an entire frame of cells. The uncapping and / or splitting of the beeswax may also increase contamination of the honey with debris, exacerbating the need for filtering of the honey. Moreover, honey is a particularly viscous and adhesive substance, anytime the honey contacts a surface, at least some of the honey adheres to the surface, and is lost as a residue on that surface. Accordingly, intermediary surfaces and mechanisms can result in excess lost honey. Existing methods are also often very time consuming, require lots of equipment, significant harvesting time, and significant clean up following extraction. With existing methods, it is not practical to produce and / or harvest honey at relatively small (or variable) quantities. Thus, beekeepers are unable to fully manage the quantities of honey for harvesting, and so typically harvest as much as possible at once. However, this can lead to excess quantities of honey, causing further difficulties in storing the harvested honey, and impacting the bees by vastly changing their honey stores within the hive.

[0095] Aspects of the present disclosures address one or more of these issues with conventional honey production and extraction systems. Particularly preferred embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for the production of honey which are more efficient and more convenient, or at least provide a useful alternative.

[0096] Referring in general to the figures, embodiments of the invention provide a system including one or more artificial honeycomb cassettes (cassettes, for short), a hive box, frames, carrier and honey extractor. Each cassette includes a pair of separable modules (modules, for short). Each module includes one face, outwardly facing in operation (hereinafter, the outer face), and another, opposite face, inwardly facing in operation (hereinafter, the inner face). The separable modules are configured to be joined along their respective inner faces. Each module includes artificial honeycomb cells (cells, for short) open at an outer end at an outer face of the module. When the modules are separated, the inner ends of the cells are partially closed and partially open. When the modules are joined along their respective inner faces, the inner ends of the cells are substantially closed by cooperating base structures of the respective modules.

[0097] As used herein, a cell end being “closed” generally refers to the cell having a substantially enclosed end sealing the cell and / or providing a base surface sufficient for bees to utilise the cell for lining with wax and storing honey therein. The base surface, of a closed cell end, need not be continuous or monolithic, for example, the base surface may be defined by multiple separate portions, substantially abutting with (or proximate to) each other. Alternatively, a closed cell end may be a cell end covered by a sheet or cap of beeswax. Conversely, a cell end being “open” refers to the cell end providing (or including) an aperture sufficient for bees to store honey through and into the cell (e.g., via the open outer end) and / or sufficient to extract honey through and from the cell (e.g., the partially open inner end of separated modules).

[0098] The cassette is the point at which the bees integrate with the system. Cassettes of joined modules may be mounted in a frame and the frames mounted in the hive box to facilitate bees to build upon the foundations of the cassettes, fill the cells with honey and cap the open ends of the cells. To harvest the honey, each cassette can be individually removed from its frame and the joined modules separated to conveniently open the inner ends of the cells, without disturbing their outer ends (and wax cappings). The separated modules may then be mounted in a carrier of a centrifugal honey extractor and spun to extract the honey.

[0099] Referring to FIGURE 1 there is depicted an embodiment of a cassette 100 with a pair of modules 110. Each of the modules 110 have an outer face 111 ; an inner face112; and a plurality of artificial honeycomb cells 120 extending through the module 110, from the outer face 111 to the inner face 112. The cells 120 are channels in the module 110 and, in operation, define a volume for holding honey. Each module 110 includes an array of multiple rows and columns of cells 120.

[0100] Each cell 120 extends from an outer end 121 , at the outer face 111 of the respective module 110, to an inner end 122, at the inner face 112. The inner end 122 of each cell 120 is partially closed by a respective base structure 123. When the modules 110 are separated a remaining portion 124 of the inner end 122 of each cell 120 remains open. When the modules 110 are joined, along their inner faces 112, respective base structures 123 are configured to cooperate to substantially close respective inner ends 122 of corresponding cells 120. That is, the remaining portion 124 of each inner end 122 of the cells 120 of each module 110 is substantially closed by a corresponding, complementary base structure 123 of a cell 120 of the other module 110. Advantageously, the cooperating pair of modules 110 are able to substantially close the inner ends 122, of the respective cells 120, without requiring additional components or seals, thereby simplifying the honey production and extraction process.

[0101] The outer face 111 of each module 110 defines an outer plane. The inner face 112 of each module defines a generally planar inner surface, with projections and recesses defined by the base structures 123. The modules 110 are joinable along their respective inner faces 112 to define a generally planar joined interface 101 , with projections and recesses defined by the cooperating base structures 123. When the modules 110 are joined, the joined interface 101 is substantially parallel with the outer planes. Each cell 120 defines a cell axis 113 substantially orthogonal to the joined interface 101. That is, the modules 110 are joinable such that the cells 120 mate along the joined interface 101 ; and the modules 110 are separable such that the cells 120 are split, along the joined interface 101 , substantially transverse to their axis 113 when the modules 110 are separated.

[0102] The base structure 123, of each cell 120, extends into each cell 120 and defines a portion 125 of a base surface 126 of that cell 120. Each base structure 123 also projects out from the inner face 112 of the module 110 and away from the cell 120. The base structure 123 thus effectively extends and projects along the cell axis 113. When the modules 110 are joined, a remaining portion 127 of each base surface 126 isdefined by an opposite surface 128 of a base structure 123 of the other module 110. That is, the opposite surface 128 of the projecting portion of each base structure 123 of each module 110 extends into the remaining open portion 124 of a corresponding cell 120 of the opposite module 110. Additionally, or alternatively, each base structure 123 of each cell 120 of each module 110 may interface with the inner end face of the cell walls, of the other module 110, to substantially close the respective cells 120. In this way, the cells 120 and their respective base structures 123 are configured to cooperate to substantially close respective cells, such that the inner ends of the cells of both modules 110 are substantially closed when the modules are joined.

[0103] In the embodiment of figure 1 , the cells 120 are generally hexagonal in cross section and each cell includes a generally trapezoidal base structure 123 partially closing the respective cell inner end 122. In the orientation of figure 1 , along the visible inner face 112 of the one module 110, the top half of each inner end 112 of the cells 120 is closed by a respective trapezoidal base structure 123. Whilst not visible in figure 1 , the bottom half of the inner end of each cell 120 of the other module 110 is closed by a corresponding trapezoidal base structure 123. Accordingly, when the modules 110 are joined along their inner faces 112, the trapezoidal base structures 123 of respective cells 120, of respective modules, cooperate to substantially close the hexagonal cells 120. In particular, each trapezoidal base structure 123 extends partially into a cell 120 of the opposite module 110 to define a portion 127 of the opposite cell’s base surface 126. In figure 1 , the respective base structures 123 of each module 110 define at least a portion 125 of a substantially flat base surface 126 of each respective cell 120 as well as a respective opposite cell 120 of the other module 110. In alternative embodiments the base structures 123 may cooperate to define alternative base surfaces 126. For example, in various embodiments, base surfaces may be concave, convex, faceted and / or otherwise have variable depth provided by the respective base structures.

[0104] The projecting base structures 123 may also act to orient the modules 110 with respect to each other by serving as a key to the aperture defined by the remaining open portion 124, of the opposite cells 120, for receiving the base structure. Furthermore, the comers of each module 110 include key and aperture structures 114 and 115 to orient and join the modules 110. Each of the modules also include peripheral structures, in the form of ribs 116, around their peripheral surfaces. The ribs 116 help provide structural integrity to the modules 110. The ribs 116 may also be used to mount 100 the cassetteto a frame 140. For example, the ribs 116 may be received by corresponding slots of a frame 140. In alternative embodiments, additional or alternative mounting structures are also possible.

[0105] The modules 110 of figure 1 are configured to be interchangeable. That is, the first module 110 is substantially identical to the second module 110 and thus, where there are 3 or more such modules 110, any module 110 may be flipped and joined with any other module 110 along their respective inner faces 112. In alternative embodiments, the cassette 100 may include unique first and second modules and / or particular modules may be keyed to other modules as pairs to form a cassette.

[0106] Generally, the cells 120 of the modules 110 are hexagonal in cross section, emulating the natural structure preferred by bees. However, in alternative embodiments, alternative cell shapes (and corresponding structures) are possible. For example, the cells may be cylindrical channels (instead of hexagonal) and the base structures arcs of a circle (instead of trapezoidal), cooperating to substantially close the cells. In the embodiment of figure 1 , the cells 120 of each module 110 are coaxial with respective corresponding cells 120 of the other module 110. In alternative embodiments, alternative cell arrangements are possible, for example, the cells of one module may be offset from the cells of the other module. In alternative embodiments, the base structures need not extend or project and may instead define a substantially flush surface for closing respective cell inner ends. For example, the base structures may tesselate along the joined interface of the modules, to define base surfaces of respective cells, without extending through the joined interface.

[0107] Referring to FIGURE 2, multiple cassettes 100, each including a pair of separable modules 110 joined along their respective inner faces 112 may be mounted in a frame 140. The cassettes 100 are mounted in the frame 140 in an operation orientation, wherein each cassette 100 presents an outer face 111 of one module 110 along the front of the frame 140 and an outer face 111 of the other module 110 along the rear of the frame 140. That is, in operation, both outer faces 111 (and their respective open cell outer ends 121 ) are open and accessible when the cassettes 100 are mounted in the frame 140. The frame may include multiple apertures 141 configured to receive respective cassettes 100. Each cassette 100 may be mounted in (and removed from) a respective aperture 141 of the frame 140, independently from anyother cassette 100. Additionally, the cassettes 100 may be interchangeable between apertures 141 or may be uniquely keyed to a respective aperture 141 . The frame 140 may then be mounted in a hive box. The frames 140 may be sized corresponding to existing conventional frames, enabling the frames 140 (and the cassettes 100 therein) to be retrofitted to existing hive boxes.

[0108] In operation, when the frames 140 are mounted within a hive box, the bees are able to build upon each of the cassettes 100 and fill the cells 120 of respective modules 110 with honey. Advantageously, the artificial cells 120 and the base surfaces 126 at their closed inner ends 111 present a structure similar to the natural structure of a beehive. The frames 140 may be moved, removed and replaced within the hive box to monitor the cassettes 100, for example, to view the extent of cells that have been filled with honey and have had their outer ends 121 capped by beeswax. When a sufficient number of cells 120, of a cassette 100, have been capped (e.g., about 95%, or a desired amount), the cassette 100 may be removed from the frame 140 for harvesting. Honey may then be harvested from that cassette 100 and the cassette 100 remounted in the frame 140. Alternatively, a different replacement cassette may be mounted in the respective aperture of the frame. Thus, cassettes 100 may be modularly harvested from the frame 140 as each cassette is filled with honey, without requiring the full frame to be harvested at once.

[0109] Advantageously, a cassette 100 may be removed from the frame 140 without disturbing any of the other cassettes 100 in the frame. That is, each cassette 100 may be operated independently of other cassettes. Additionally, a cassette 100 may be removed from the frame 140 without disturbing the outer faces 111 (and potentially wax capped cells) of that cassette (or other cassettes). Moreover, a cassette 100 may be removed from the frame 140 and its modules 110 partially separated to inspect the inner ends 122 of the cells 120 without disrupting the outer end 121 wax caps of the cells. Such a cassette 100 may then be (rejoined and) placed back in the frame 140.

[0110] Furthermore, a cassette 100 may have the honey extracted at the apiary, that is, substantially locally at a shed or workstation of the apiary or even immediately at the hive box. Alternatively, because the cassette 100 may be removed from the frame 140 without disturbing its capped outer cell ends 121 , the cassette 100 (with honey filled cells) remains sealed and may thus be transported whilst preserving the integrity of thehoney. In this way, individual frames 140 and individual cassettes 100 of each frame may be conveniently monitored, inspected, transported, harvested and replaced without disturbing the cassettes, other cassettes or frames. Honey production and harvesting may thus occur at the individual cassette scale, rather than the full frame scale, wherein individual cassettes 100 can be operated independently.

[0111] Referring to FIGURE 3 there is illustrated another embodiment of an artificial honeycomb cassette 100 including a first separable module 110a and a second separable module 110b, the modules 110 being separable joined together. The first separable module (first module 110a, for short) includes a first outer face 111a; a first inner face 112a; and a plurality of first artificial honeycomb cells (first cells 120a, for short), each first cell 120a extending from an outer end 121a, at the first outer face 111 a, to an inner end 122a at the first inner face 112a, wherein the inner end 122a of each first artificial honeycomb cell 120a is partially closed by a respective first base structure 123a. When the first and second modules 110 are separated from each other a remaining portion 124a of the inner end 122a of each of the first cells 120a remains open.

[0112] The second separable module (second module 110b, for short) includes a second outer face 111b; a second inner face 112b; and a plurality of second artificial honeycomb cells (second cells 120b, for short), each second cell 120b extending from an outer end 121 b, at the second outer face 111 b, to an inner end 122b at the second inner face 112b, wherein the inner end 122b of each second artificial honeycomb cell 120b is partially closed by a respective second base structure 123b. When the first and second modules 110 are separated from each other a remaining portion 124b of the inner end 122b of each of the second cells 120b remains open.

[0113] In figure 3, the cassette 100 is in an operation configuration, with the modules 110a and 110b joined along their respective inner faces 112a and 112b wherein the modules are in an operation orientation, with their respective outer 111a and 111 b faces being outwardly directed and outer ends 121 of their respective cells 120 being accessible. The first and second base structures 123 are configured to mate to substantially close respective inner ends of the first and second artificial honeycomb cells 120 when the first and second separable modules 110 are joined along their inner faces 112. That is, the remaining open portion 124a of the inner ends 122a of the firstcells 120a are substantially closed by second base structures 123b and the remaining open portion 124b of the inner ends 122b of the second cells 120b are substantially closed by the first base structures 123a.

[0114] In figure 3, the cassette 100 includes a peripheral flange 117(a / b) extending around, and substantially flush with, the outer face 111 of each module 110. Each module 110 also includes ribs 116(a / b) projecting from the respective flange 117 and indents 118 within the middle ribs 116 at top end of the modules 110. The flange 117, ribs 116 and indents 118 provide reinforcement to the module 110; provide structures for (keyed) mounting of the cassette 100 to a frame 140 and / or extraction device 150; and provide structures to facilitate separating the modules 110. Additionally, the flange 117b of the second module 110b includes cut outs 119, along its bottom and side edges. Such cut outs 119 in the flange 117 are configured to orient the cassette 100 with respect to a frame 140, as will be described below, with reference to figure 8.

[0115] In general, the modules 110 and their cells 120 are sized to emulate the natural structures of a beehive in order to provide foundations for bees to utilise in the production of honey. The modules 110 of the cassette of figure 3 includes 15 rows of cells and 13 columns of cells, alternating rows being offset for the hexagonal cells to tesselate. Although in alternative embodiments alternative numbers of rows and columns, and alternative cell arrangements are possible. Each module 110 may be approximately 75 to 150 millimetres (mm) wide, suitably about 92mm wide. Each module 110 may be approximately 75 to 150 (mm) tall, suitably about 92mm tall. Each module 110 may be approximately 10 to 25 (mm) thick, suitably about 17mm thick. The cells 120 may be approximately 5 to 10mm in diameter, suitably about 6mm in diameter. In one embodiment, each module is approximately 92mm wide, 92mm tall and 17mm thick. Advantageously, such module and cell sizes provide a substantially hand sized cassette which is convenient to handle. Such a cassette sizing may also be approximately portion sized or configured to fit within a punnet or other packing for storage, transport and / or distribution. Moreover, in operation, each cassette is sized in cooperation with the frame and hive box such that bees have sufficient space to move around freely between frames. Each module may be formed from a food safe plastic (e.g., a food safe thermoplastic) in a vacuum moulding or injection moulding process. In one embodiment, each module is formed from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)plastic. In alternative embodiments additional and / or alternative materials and manufacturing processes are also possible.

[0116] FIGURE 4 depicts a further embodiment of an artificial honeycomb cassette 100. The embodiment of figure 4 is generally similar to that of figure 3, except the peripheral flanges 117 and cut outs 119 are not visible. Although, in figure 4 ribs 116 can be seen protruding from the top and bottom of the cassette 100. The ribs 116 of each module 110 are configured to facilitate improved fitment into the frame 140. In figure 4, the first and second base structures 123a and 123b cooperate to substantially close the inner ends 122a and 122b of the first and second cells 120a and 120b. The rear view of the cassette 100 shows the second outer face 111 b of the second module 110, through the second cells 120b, the second base structures 123b can be seen at the base of the second cells 120b. Through the second cells 120b, the complementary first base structures 123a can also be seen substantially closing what would otherwise be the open remaining portion 124b of the second cell inner ends 122b. The closed inner ends 122 of the cells 120 are thus substantially sealed by complementary base structures 123 to define a base surface 126 in each cell 120.

[0117] The base surface 126b, at the base of each second cell 120b is defined by cooperating first and second base structures 123a and 123b. In particular, a portion 125b of the base surface 126b of each second cell 120b is defined by a respective second base structure 123b of the second cell 120b. The remaining portion 127b of the second base surface 126b of each second cell 120b is defined by an opposite surface 128a of at least one first base structure 123a. Opposite here refers to the opposite surface 128a of a first base structure 123a, of a given first cell 120a, being oppositely directed relative to the base surface 126a of that given cell 120a. Depending on the alignment of the first and second cells 120a and 120b when the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined, the remaining portion 127b of the base surface 126b may be defined by a pair of opposite surfaces 128a, of base structures 123a of respective cells 120a, of the other module 110a.

[0118] The base surface 126 of each cell 120 may be substantially flat. Alternatively, whilst not visible in the rear elevation view, the base surfaces may vary in depth to define three dimensional base surfaces. In particular, each base surface may be a rhomboidal base surface, emulating the natural structures preferred by bees.Specifically, the base surface may be a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface. In such a structure, the relief of the base of the cell defines a pyramid with a hexagonal base and three rhomboidal (or quadrilateral) facets as faces of the pyramid. Two edges of each rhomboidal face adjoin the hexagonal base, two edges of each rhomboidal face adjoin edges of the other rhomboidal faces, and the mutual corner of all three faces is the apex of the pyramid. In this way, the apex of the pyramid is the lowest or base point of the base surface of the cell. This arrangement is described in further detail below, with reference to figure 12. In alternative embodiments, the base surfaces may be substantially flat, convex, concave bowls, faceted surfaces, or of alternative shapes and geometries.

[0119] Another embodiment of a cassette O is depicted in figures 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B. Referring to FIGURE 5A there is depicted a front view of a first module 110a of the cassette and referring to FIGURE 5B there is depicted a rear view of a second module 110b of the cassette. The first module 110a includes rows and columns of first (hexagonal) cells 120a, each first cell including a first base structure 123a partially closing its inner end 122a. In particular a (trapezoidal) portion 125a of the inner end 122a is closed by the first base structure 123a to define a portion 125a of a first base surface 126a for each first cell 120a. A remaining (trapezoidal) portion 124a of the inner end 122a of each first cell 120a remains open. The second module includes rows and columns of second (hexagonal) cells 120b, each second cell including a second base structure 123b partially closing its inner end 122b. In particular a (trapezoidal) portion 125b of the inner end 122b is closed by the second base structure 123b to define a portion 125b of a second base surface 126b for each second cell 120b. Additionally, the second base structures 123b define second opposite (trapezoidal) surfaces 128b, facing in an opposite direction of the second base surfaces 126b. A remaining (trapezoidal) portion 124b of the inner end 122b of each second cell 120b remains open.

[0120] The first and second base structures 123a and 123b are generally trapezoidal and thus close approximately half of the inner end 122 of their respective first or second (hexagonal) cells 120. When the first module 110a is placed on top of the second module 110b (i.e. , they are joined along their inner faces 112), the first and second base structures 123 are configured to mate to substantially close respective inner ends 122 of the first and second cells 120. In particular the opposite surfaces 128b of the secondbase structures 123b close the otherwise open remaining portion 124a of the inner end 122a of the first cells 120a and, similarly, opposite surfaces 128a of the first base structures 123a close the otherwise open remaining portion 124b of the inner end 122b of the second cells 120b. When the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined, the rows and columns of the first cells 120a are offset from the rows and columns of the second cells 120b. In particular, the second cells 120b are vertically offset up by approximately a third of a cell height relative to the first cells 120a. The first and second cells 120a and 120b are also horizontally offset from each other by approximately half a cell width, such that, when the modules 110 are joined, the centre of each first cell 120a of the first module 110a is aligned with a junction of the second cells of the other module. That is, in the embodiment of figures 5a and 5b, when the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined, the first and second cells 120a and 120b are not coaxial with each other. Instead, by way of the vertical and horizontal offsets each first cell 120a will generally overlay three second cells 120b and each second cell 120b will generally overlay three first cells 120a.

[0121] The first and second base structures 123a and 123b are also clustered in groups of three to define respective first and second end structures 130a and 130b. In particular, three base structures 123 of adjoining cells are clustered into an end structure centred 130 over the junction 131 of the adjoining cells 120. Additionally, the base structures 123 are rotationally symmetric around the junction 131 of the adjoining cells. Each end structure 130 is a generally triangular formation comprising alternating quadrilateral facets 132 and triangular facets 133 (each pair of quadrilateral and triangular facets 132 and 133 defining a trapezoidal facet pair).

[0122] In general in this arrangement, the first and second end structures 130a and 130b tesselate such that the inner end 122a of each first (hexagonal) cell 120a is partially closed by its first (trapezoidal) base structure 123a (the trapezoidal base structure 123a including a quadrilateral facet 132a and a triangular face 133a) and the remaining open portion 124a is then closed by a (quadrilateral) primary opposite surface 134b of a second base structure 123b of a second cell 120b cooperating with a secondary (triangular) opposite surface 135b of a second base structure 123b of another second cell 120b. Similarly, the inner end 122b of each second cell 120b is partially closed by its (trapezoidal) second base structure 123b and the remaining open portion 124b is then closed by a (quadrilateral) primary opposite surface 134a of a firstbase structure 123a of a first cell 120a cooperating with a (triangular) secondary opposite surface 135a of a first base structure 123a of another first cell 120a. That is, when the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined along their inner faces, each first cell inner end 122a is closed by a pair of cooperating second cell base structures 123b and each second cell inner end 122b is closed by a pair of cooperating first cell base structures 123a.

[0123] Put another way, each hexagonal cell 120 is partially closed by its own trapezoidal base structure 123 and the remaining trapezoidal portion 124 is closed by a quadrilateral primary opposite surface 134 (of an opposite base structure of an opposite cell) and a triangular secondary surface 135 (of another opposite base structure of another opposite cell), wherein the quadrilateral primary opposite surface 134 and the triangular secondary surface 135 cooperate to define a trapezoidal opposite surface 128. The arrangement of end structures 130 will be described in further detail below, with reference to figure 12.

[0124] Some cells along the borders of the array of columns and rows of first cells may include additional border base structures which close a further portion of the respective cells. Such additional border base structures may accommodate where the offset of the cells otherwise causes an opposite base structure to not fully overlay a cell along the border of the array. In such a case, the inner end of such a cell may be fully closed by its own additional end structure. Additionally, or alternatively, the modules may include additional opposite surfaces (and base structures), not part of a particular cell, on their inner face along the border their cells. The additional opposite surfaces configured to mate with remaining open portions of cells of the other module.

[0125] Visible in figure 5B, the second module 110b includes keyed projections 114b around the perimeter, in particular along the top edge and at the bottom comers, configured to be received by corresponding recesses 115a of the first module 110a. The second module 110b also includes recesses 115b around the periphery to receive corresponding projections 114a of the first module 110a. Whilst not visible in figure 5A, the first module 110a also includes corresponding keyed projections and recesses 114a and 115a. The respective keyed projections and recesses 114 and 115 function to locate the modules 110 in a unique relative orientation to ensure tessellation of the respective base structures.

[0126] Referring to FIGURE 6A there is depicted a cross sectional view of the first module 110a, taken along the line A’ -A” of figure 5A. Referring to FIGURE 6B there is depicted a cross sectional view of the second module 110b, taken along the line B’-B” of figure 5B. The respective section lines of figures 5A and 5B are through the middle of a respective row of cells. Due to the offset of the first and second cells 120a and 120b, the section line of figure 5B is vertically offset up by approximately a third of a cell height, relative to the section line of figure 5A. Accordingly figures 6A and 6B do not precisely tesselate with each other, rather each shows a cross section of half of a row of cells with partially closed and partially open inner ends 122.

[0127] In figure 6A, each first cell 120a includes an open outer end 121a at the outer face 111a of the first module 110a. Each first cell 120a also includes a first base structure 123a partially closing the inner end 122a of the cell 120a, along the inner face 112a of the first module 123a. In figure 6B, each second cell 120b includes an open outer end 121 b at the outer face 111 b of the second module 110b. Each second cell 120b also includes a second base structure 123b partially closing the inner end 122b of the cell 120b, along the inner face 112b of the second module 110b. Keyed projections 114a at the top comers of the first module 110a are visible in the view of figure 6A. The keyed projections 114b at the top edge of the second module 110b are also visible in the views of figures 6B.

[0128] In operation, when the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined, the inner ends of each cell are closed by cooperating first and second base structures 123a and 123b to define a respective base surface 126. Each cell thus defines a volume between the cell walls, the base surface and a plane define by the outer end of the cell. Nectar may be deposited through the open outer end 121 of each cell 120 and the nectar may then mature into honey within the volume of the cell. Once a cell 120 is filled with nectar and the nectar has matured into honey, the outer end 121 is capped to seal the cell 120. The base surface 126 of each cell 120, of each module 110, is concave, that is extending away from the cell, into the joined interface 101 of the modules 110. The concave base surface 126 in this example is a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface, although in other embodiments the base surface may be a faceted surface, a concave bowl surface or another surface. The deepest point of the base surface of each cell is generally central to the cell, with the shallowest points running around the perimeter of the inner end of the cell. The deepest point of the base surface of each cellalso defines an oppositely directed apex 129. The oppositely directed apex 129 of each cell 120, of each module 110, aligns with a junction between cells 120 of the opposite module 110. Accordingly, the depth of the concave base surfaces defines a wave in cross section with the wave of the first module 110a being offset from the second module 110b such that respective peaks are received by respective troughs. Advantageously, this enables the cells to have concave, three dimensional surfaces without impinging on the opposite cells and without requiring an excessively thick cassette.

[0129] Put another way, when the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined, the apex 129a of each of the first cells 120a aligns with a junction (or wall) between the second cells 120b and the apex 129b of each of second cells 120b aligns with a junction (or wall) between the first cells 120a. In this way, by way of the offset between the first and second cells 120a and 120b (and their respective apexes 129a and 129b), the base structures 123a of the first cells 120a do not extend substantially into the volume of the second cells 120b and the base structures 123b of the second cells 120b do not extend substantially into the volume of the first cells 120a. Advantageously, the configuration provides that each of the first and second cells have respective concave base surfaces, without extending into the volume of the corresponding opposite cells. Accordingly, the volume of the cells can be maximised and suitable base surfaces provided for the bees in a relatively thin cassette. Furthermore, no additional intermediary structures or plates are required to facilitate the (concave) base surfaces of the cells.

[0130] Referring to FIGURE 7A there is depicted a rear view of the first module 110a of the cassette and referring to FIGURE 7B there is depicted a front view of the second module 110b of the cassette. Figures 7A and 7B respectively correspond to, and are a reversal of, figures 5A and 5B. Although, in the reversed views, the opposite surfaces 128a of the first base structures 123a of the first cells 120a of the first module 110a; and the portion 125b of the base surfaces 126b of the second base structures 123b of the second cells 120b of the second module 110b are now visible. Additionally, keyed projections 114a at the top comers and the middle of the bottom edge of the first module 110a are visible. Similarly to that of figures 5A and 5B, it can be seen that the first and second base structures 123a and 123b tesselate such that when the second module 110b is place on top of the first module 110a (i.e., they are joined along theirinner faces), the first and second base structures 123a and 123b are configured to mate to substantially close respective inner ends 122a and 122b of the first and second cells 120a and 120b.

[0131] Whilst the structures of figures 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A and 7B are in respect of hexagonal cells, trapezoidal base structures and certain groupings of cells and base structures, in alternative embodiments, alternative cell shapes, base structures and configurations are possible. For example, each cell could be a square channel overlaying four opposite cells with respective base structures cooperating to close halves and quadrants of the cells. As another alternative, cells could be generally cylindrical with semi-circular or semi-spherical base structures wherein respective base structures define arcs of a circle which tesselate to form circular closures of the cylindrical cells. Many alternative geometries and corresponding structures are possible, with hexagonal representing only a preferred embodiment. Furthermore, in other alternative embodiments, the first and second cells may be coaxial such that pairs of first and second base structures cooperate to close respective cell inner ends.

[0132] Referring to FIGURE 8 there is depicted another embodiment of a frame 140 including a plurality of apertures 141 for receiving respective artificial honeycomb cassettes 100. The cassettes 100 are mounted into the frames 140 in an operation orientation, wherein the respective outer faces 111 of the modules 110 of each cassette 100 are oriented outwardly. That is, when a cassette 100 is mounted in a frame 140, a first outer face 111 a of the cassette 100 is directed outwardly along the front of the frame 140 and a second outer face 111b of the cassette is directed outwardly along the rear of the frame. In this way, the open ends 121a and 121b of both the first and second cells 120a and 120b of the cassette 100 may be accessed for depositing nectar within the cells. The frames 140 are configured to be mounted in a hive box for housing a colony of bees wherein the bees may deposit nectar within the cells 120 of cassettes 100 mounted in the frames. Thus, in operation, both the first and second cells 120a and 120b may be used for storing honey.

[0133] In figure 8, for the purposes of description, one of the apertures 141 (top, left) is shown with frame key structures 142 configured to cooperate with a cassette 100 to orient the cassette when it is mounted in the frame aperture. In particular, the frame aperture 141 includes a raised projection 142 along the bottom edge and each sideedge. The raised projections 142 are ramped to facilitate mounting a cassette. The raised projections 142 also include a rear retaining lip 143 for abutting against a cassette 100. The cassette 100 includes cut outs 119 in the peripheral flange 117 of the rear module 110b. In particular, the bottom and side edges of the flange 117 of the rear module 110b include cut outs 119 corresponding to the projections 142 of the frame aperture 141 . The cut outs 119 in the flange 117 of the module 110b functions as module keys configured to respectively receive corresponding frame keys 142. In particular, the cassette 100 may be inserted rear module 110b first, into the aperture 14 of the frame 140, wherein the ramped projections 142 of the frame are received by the recesses 117 in the rear module 110b as the cassette 100 slides into the aperture 141 . When the cassette 100 is mounted in the aperture 141 , the retaining lip 143 of the frame key 142 may abut the outer face 111 b of the rear module 110b, for example, to prevent the cassette 100 from being pushed fully through the aperture 141 . In alternative embodiments, one or more additional apertures may include one or more frame keys corresponding to module keys of one or both modules of cassettes. In further alternative embodiments, the frame and module keys may have different configurations, for example, the frame key may be in the form of a recess and the module key in the form of a projection. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the frame keys and modules may be omitted.

[0134] In the example of figure 8, the outer faces 111 of the cassettes 100 are substantially flush with the front and rear face of the frame 140 as a whole. In alternative embodiments, the faces of the cassette modules may be recessed in, or protrude from, the frame. Whilst in this example, the cassettes are axially insertable into apertures of the frame, in alternative embodiments the cassettes and frame may be configured to alternatively mount the cassette in the frame. For example, in alternative embodiments, cassettes may be slotted into the frame, wherein peripheral flange structures of the cassette may be slotted into receiving slots of the frame to mount the cassettes in an operation orientation.

[0135] Once the cassettes 100 have been mounted in a hive box (within a frame 140), initially bees will build upon the structures provided by the cassette 100 as a foundation to their own beeswax. In particular, bees may line the cell walls and cell base surface 126 with a relatively thin layer of wax. Advantageously, the hexagonal cell channel and base surface is configured to emulate the natural shape and structured preferred bybees. Accordingly, bees may be induced to build upon the artificial honeycomb cassettes 100 in a natural manner, facilitating the production of honey. Once bees have built the wax structures within the cells 120, they will deposit nectar with the cells, via the open outer ends 121 along the outer faces 111 of the modules 110. Once the cells 120 are substantially filled with nectar and the nectar has matured into honey, the bees cap the outer end 121 of the cell with wax. The wax cappings serve to close and substantially seal the respective cells 120. When suitable to the beekeeper (e.g., at a desired time or once a desired number of cells 120 have been capped) the cassette 100 may be harvested.

[0136] To harvest honey, the cassette 100 with capped cells is removed from the frame 140. In practice, cassettes are preferred to be left in the frame until approximately 95% of the cells are filled and capped. Although, the cassettes may be removed from the frame at any desired time, including to inspect the cassette. Advantageously, removing a cassette 100 does not disturb any wax cappings along the outer faces 111 of the modules 110. Accordingly, the cassette 100 may be removed for monitoring and inspection and replaced without disturbing the wax cappings (or disturbing any other cassettes in the frame).

[0137] Additionally, a cassette 100 may be removed from the frame 140 and its modules 110 partially split open to partially open the inner ends and reveal the inside of the cell volumes for inspection without disturbing wax cappings on the outer ends. Such monitoring of the internal of a cell 120 is useful for inspecting honey producing cells. Additionally, monitoring of the internal of cells 120 may also be advantageous where cassettes 100 are used in brood areas of a hive. For example, separation of the modules 110 of a cassette 100 may also allow inspecting nursery cells, in the brood area, for parasites and / or treating eggs / larvae / pupae in such nursery cells, without disturbing the front wax seal of such nursery cells.

[0138] Harvesting of honey from a cassette 100 may be performed on a per cassette scale. That is, a single cassette 100 amongst potentially very many cassettes in one or more frames 140 in one or more hive boxes may be harvested individually. This may allow monitoring, inspecting, sampling and scheduling of honey over multiple cassettes 100 within frame(s) 140 and / or hive(s). Because of the cassette scale harvesting, and the configuration of the cassette, the convenience and efficiency of honey harvesting isimproved. Cassettes 100 may be harvested essentially in situ at (or substantially local to) a hive box. Alternatively, cassettes 100 may be transported wherein the wax cappings may seal the cells 120, and preserve the honey therein, during transport (and storage).

[0139] Advantageously, a cassette 100 full of honey may thus be removed from a frame 140 in a hive box and transported remotely before splitting open the cassette 100 and harvesting its honey. Indeed, the modules 110 of a cassette 140 may remain joined (and the cells 120 sealed) such that the honey is preserved until harvesting is desired at a later time and / or a remote location. In this way, the ultimate harvesting of a cassette 100 may be deferred (and the honey it contains preserved) until the point of consumption. Moreover, because the wax seal on the open ends 121 of the cells 120 remains, and the inner ends 122 of the cells remain closed while the modules 110 are joined, the honey may be preserved, effectively, in the same state as fresh from the hive.

[0140] The joined modules 110 of a cassette 100 may be separated by hand. For example, the edges of each module 110 and / or the peripheral flange 117 structure may be gripped and the modules 110 pulled apart to separate the cassette. In figure 8, the cassette 100 removed from the frame 140 includes peripheral structures in the form of a flange 117 around the periphery of each module 110. Each module 110 also includes ribs 116 transverse to the peripheral flange 117. The flange 117 and ribs 116 may provide points of grip and / or leverage to separate the modules 110. Additionally, the ribs 116 in the middle of the top edge of each module include an indent 118. Such indents 118 provide a recess that a tool, for example a pry bar or hive tool, may be placed in and twisted. In such an action the tool is received by the recess of the indent 118 in the ribs 116 and when the tool abuts the ribs 116 in a twisting action, the ribs 116 may act as a fulcrum to conveniently lever the modules 110 apart.

[0141] Referring to FIGURE 9, there is depicted another embodiment of a cassette 100 including a first module 110a and a second module 110b with the modules having been separated. As outlined above, in operation, the first and second module 110a and 110b are joined along their inner faces 112a and 112b to define a joined interface 101 ; their cells 120 are filled with nectar / honey and capped with wax. For harvesting of the honey, the modules 110 are separated from each other to open the inner ends 122 of therespective cells 120. In particular, the modules 110 may be pulled apart from each other along a cell axis 113 defined by each of the cells 120 such that inner ends 122 of the cells 120 are split open, along the joined interface 101 , substantially transverse to the cell axis 113. Whilst the embodiment of figure 9 does not include cut outs 119 in the flange 117, or indents 118 in the ribs 116, in alternative embodiments such structures can facilitate separating the modules.

[0142] Specifically, when the modules 110a and 11 b are separated, corresponding second base structures 123b are moved out of interaction with respective first cells 120a and the corresponding first base structures 123a are moved out of interaction with respective first cells 120b. Thus, the portions 124a and 124b of the inner ends 122a and 122b of the first and second cells 120a and 120b are opened. Advantageously, because the respective base structures 123 of the modules 110 close the inner ends 122 of the cells 120 without requiring additional intermediary components or removable layers, the inner ends 122 of the cells 120 can be opened without disturbing excess wax and without losing honey which would otherwise adhere to intermediary components.

[0143] Referring to FIGURE 10, once the modules 110a and 110b have been separated, and the inner ends 122 of the cells 120 have been opened, honey in the modules 110 may be extracted. To do so, each of the modules 110 are mounted in an extraction device 150. The extraction device (extractor), in this example, is a micro honey harvester centrifuge device 150. Advantageously, the cassette 100 and separable modules 110 enable honey extraction at the relatively micro (cassette) scale. The centrifuge 150 includes a chamber 151 , a motor in its base 152 and a spindle 153, connected to the motor and extending into the chamber. The motor is configured to rotate the spindle 153. The centrifuge device 150 also includes a carrier 154 configured to receive one or more modules 110. The carrier 154 is removably mountable to the spindle 153 such that, in operation, when the carrier 154 is mounted to the spindle 153, rotation of the spindle 153 rotates the carrier 154 within the chamber 151 of the device 150. The device 150 also includes a top closure 155, for example a lid, to substantially seal the chamber 151 during centrifugal honey extraction.

[0144] Each of the modules 110 of a cassette 100 may be mounted in the carrier 154 of the extractor 150. The modules 110 may be mounted in an extraction orientation with their respective inner faces 112 separated and outwardly directed from each other.Thus, the extraction orientation is inverse to the operation orientation. The carrier 154 includes slots 156 configured to receive mounting structures 117 of each of the modules 110. Advantageously, the same flange structures 117 of the module 110 may be used to mount the module in both the operation orientation in the frame 140 and also in the extraction orientation in the harvester 150.

[0145] The carrier 154, with the modules 110 mounted therein, is placed in the centrifuge extraction device 150 and the lid closed 155 over the chamber 151 . The centrifuge 150 may then be operated wherein the motor rotates the spindle 153, thereby rotating the carrier 154 and modules 110. The centrifugal force of the rotation forces the honey out of the cells 120 of the modules 110, via the open inner ends 122 along the inner face 112 of the modules 110. The honey is captured in the base of the chamber 151 of the extraction device 150, acting as a reservoir, surrounding and below the carrier 154. The wax cappings on the outer ends 121 of cells 120 may remain undisturbed during honey extraction to prevent contaminating the honey with excess wax debris and minimise the need for filtration. Whilst any layer of wax coating on the inner base surface 126 of cells 120 will be disturbed when the modules 110 are split, such a layer is relatively thin compared to the wax caps. Thus, compared to removing / disturbing the wax caps, disturbing the layer of wax coating the inner base surface of the cells contributes significantly less contamination and / or debris, during extraction. Although, in alternative embodiments, the wax cappings on the open outer end at the outer face of the modules may also be removed to further facilitate honey extraction.

[0146] In figure 10, the extraction device 150 is a motorised micro centrifuge, sized to house a single cassette 100 (e.g., a pair of modules 110a and 110b) via the carrier 154. However, alternative configurations are possible. Whilst the extraction device 150 of figure 10 shows two particular modules 110a and 110b for extraction, in alternative embodiments, alternative modules 110 and alternative numbers of modules may be extracted via the extraction device 150. For example, in some embodiments honey may be extracted from a single module at a time or, in other embodiments, honey may be extracted from multiple cassettes at once, using an extraction device of a suitable size and with a suitable carrier. In additional or alternative embodiments, the carrier may be integral with the centrifuge device, for example, integral with the spindle. The extraction device need not be a motorised centrifuge and may instead include a hand crank orother input to induce rotation of the modules. Furthermore, whilst the cassettes (and constituent modules) have been configured to facilitate centrifugal extraction, honey may also be extracted from the cassette via alternative methods, for example, drip or vacuum extraction.

[0147] Further detail of the base structures 123 and inner end structures 130 of respective modules 110, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to figures 11 -13. In general, the base structures 123 (and the end structures 130 they define), of each module 110, are configured to tesselate such that when a pair of modules 110 are joined along their inner faces 112, the corresponding base structures 123 (and the end structures 130 they define) cooperate to substantially close the inner ends 122 of the cells 120 of each module 110.

[0148] Referring initially to FIGURE 11 , there is depicted the inner face 112, of a module 110, showing base structures 123 partially closing the inner end 122 of each cell 120. Clusters of three base structures 123 of adjacent cells 120 cooperate to define end structures 130. In particular, each base structure 123 is a generally trapezoidal structure including a quadrilateral facet 132 and a triangular facet 133. The quadrilateral and triangular facets 132 and 133, of each base structure 123, meet along a common edge at an angle such that the base structure 123 projects out and away from the inner end 122, of the respective cell. The periphery of the base structures 123 run along the edges of the inner end 122 of the cell 120 and the base structure 123 extends out to an apex 129 defining the deepest point of the cell base surface 126 as well as a peak of an opposite surface 128. That is, each base structure presents a faceted concave base surface 126 on the inner end 122 of the cell 120 and a faceted convex opposite surface 128. As will be outlined further below, the convex opposite surface is received by a corresponding recessed surface of an opposite module.

[0149] The end structures, 130 in this example, are thus faceted triangular end structures including three trapezoidal base structures 123 of adjoining cells, joined at a common junction 131 defined by a common corner of their respective cell walls. Each base structure 123 partially closes (approximately half) of the inner end 122 of a respective cell 120 and thus, each respective end structure 130 partially closes (approximately half) of the inner end 122 of three cells 120. Each end structure 130 is rotationally symmetrical around the junction 131 of the adjoining cells 120. That is, eachend structure 130 includes alternating quadrilateral and triangular facets 132 and 133, rotating about the junction 131 of the adjoining cells 120. As the base structures 123 include an apex 129 point where their respective quadrilateral and triangular facets 132 and 133 meet, each end structure 130 includes three apexes 129, one along each edge. The module 110 includes end structures 130 along its inner face 112, in an alternating configuration wherein columns of end structures 130 define corresponding end recesses 136 configured to receive oppositely directed end structures (e.g., of an opposite module). The open end recesses 136 are effectively defined by the open remaining portion 124 of three adjoining cells, joined at a junction 137. Clusters of end structures 130 meeting at a common corner are also rotationally symmetric about that common corner, wherein the end structures 130 rotationally alternate with end recesses 136, and the alternating end recesses 136 are also rotationally symmetric about that common corner.

[0150] The pattern of base structures 123 and end structures 130 may be repeatedly continued along the inner face 112 of a module 110 indefinitely, to accommodate any number of rows and columns of cells 120. At the borders of the cells 120, the inner ends 122 of the cells may be closed by partial end structures, for example, a single base structure of the respective cell or a pair of base structures of adjacent cells, without defining a full end structure. Alternatively, cells along the borders of the module may include alternative end structures to facilitate tessellation with end structures of cells along the border of a corresponding opposite module.

[0151] Referring to FIGURE 12, there is depicted an example of an end structure 130 including three base structures 123 of cells 120 adjoined at a junction 131 of a common corner of their common cell walls. Each base structure 123 includes a quadrilateral facet 132 connected along half of one cell wall connected to the junction 131 ; and a triangular facet 133 connected along the other cell wall connected to the junction 131 . In this way, each base structure 123 defines a faceted trapezoidal structure, with an apex 129 defining the deepest point of a concave base surface 126 of the respective cell 120 and also a peak of an opposite surface 128. The three base structures 123 are rotationally symmetric about the junction 131 and, together, define the end structure 130. The end structure 130, is substantially recessed along the cell walls, sloping up to the peaks of each apex 129 defined by each base structure 123. Moreover, the respective primary and second opposite surfaces 134 and 135 of the quadrilateral and triangular facets 132and 133 cooperate with those of adjacent cells 120 to define concave opposite surfaces 128, rotationally offset from the cells 120. The junctions 137 of cells 120, where the inner end 122 of the cells 120 are partially open, that is where the cells 120 do not include an inner end structure 130 also define a junction apex configured to receive a junction recess of a corresponding opposite end structure of an opposite module.

[0152] For the purpose of explanation, the following notation will be used in respect of figure 12: the respective first cells of a first module are labelled in upper case A, B and C; the facets of their respective base structures are labelled with a subscript of 1 for their quadrilateral facet and a subscript of 2 for their triangular facet. Thus, the base structure of cell A includes a quadrilateral facet Ai and a triangular facet A2; the base structure of cell B includes a quadrilateral facet Bi and a triangular facet B2; the base structure of Cell C includes a quadrilateral facet Ci and a triangular facet C2. Three second cells and second base structures of an opposite second module are superimposed, in dashed lines, and respectively labelled with lower case roman numerals i, ii and iii. The second cells are horizontally and vertically offset from the first cells such that the second cells are rotationally offset from the first cells, about the junction 131 , to facilitate tessellation of the first and base structures.

[0153] The inside open edges 160 and 161 of facets A1 and A2 are inclined from their respective connections 162 and 163, to the walls of cell A, up to the apex 164 of cell A; the common edge 165 of facets A1 and A2 is inclined up from the junction 131 to the apex 164 of cell A. The outside open edge 166 of facet A1 is inclined down from the open corner 162 of facet A1 to the mutual corner 167 with facet B2. Similarly, the inside open edges 168 and 169 of facets Bi and B2 are inclined from their respective connections 170 and 167, to the walls of cell B, up to the apex 171 of cell B; the common edge 172 of facets Bi and B2 is inclined up from the junction 131 to the apex 171 of cell B. The outside open edge 173 of facet Bi is inclined down from the open corner 170 of facet Bi to the mutual corner 174 with facet C2. Also, the inside open edges 175 and 176 of facets Ci and C2 are inclined from their respective connections 177 and 174, to the walls of cell C, up to the apex 178 of cell C; the common edge 179 of facets Ci and C2 is inclined up from the junction 131 to the apex 178 of cell C. The outside open edge 180 of facet Ci is inclined down from the open corner 177 of facet Ci to the mutual corner 163 with facet A2. Additionally, the common edge 181 of facets A1 and B2 is inclined down from the junction 131 to a recess at the mutual corner 167 ofcells A and B; the common edge 182 of facets Bi and C2 is inclined down from the junction 131 to a recess at the mutual corner 174 of cells B and C; and the common edge 183 of facets Ci and A2 is inclined down from the junction 131 to a recess at the mutual corner 163 of cells C and A.

[0154] Accordingly, the inner end of each of the first cells A, B and C of the first module 110a are respectively half closed by the concave trapezoidal structure of their respective base structure 123a. Their respective base structures 123a defining half of a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid base surface 126a of the cells A, B and C. Similarly, each of the second cells i, ii and iii of the second module 110b are closed by their own corresponding base structures 123b which define their own halves of the trihedral rhomboidal pyramid base surfaces 126b of the cells i, ii and iii. When the first and second modules 110 are separated the remaining half 124a of the inner ends 122a of cells A, B and C remains open; and the remaining half 124b of the inner ends 122b of the cells i, ii and iii remains open. When the first and second modules are joined along their inner faces, the corresponding end structures 130a and 130b mate to substantially close the inner ends of the cells.

[0155] In particular, when the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined, the remaining open portion 124b of (the inner end 122b of) cell i would be closed by the cooperating opposite surfaces 134a and 135a of the facets Ci and A2 (132a and 133a), wherein the peak of cell i is received (and partially defined by) the recess at the mutual corner 163 of cells C and A; the remaining open portion 124b of cell ii would be closed by the cooperating opposite surfaces 134a and 135a of the facets A1 and B2 (132a and 133a), wherein the peak of cell ii is received (and partially defined by) the recess at the mutual corner 167 of cells A and B; and the remaining open portion 124b of cell iii would be closed by the cooperating opposite surfaces 134a and 135a of the facets Bi and C2 (132a and 133a), wherein the peak of cell iii is received (and partially defined by) the recess at the mutual corner 174 of cells B and C.

[0156] Similarly, when the first and second modules 110a and 110b are joined, the remaining open portion 124a of cell A would be closed by the secondary opposite surface 135b of the triangular facet 133b of the base structure 123b of cell i cooperating with the primary opposite surface 134b of the quadrilateral facet 132b of the base structure 123b of another second cell (not shown); the remaining open portion 124a ofcell B would be closed by the secondary opposite surface 135b of the triangular facet 133b of the base structure of cell ii cooperating with the primary opposite surface 134b of the quadrilateral facet 132b of the base structure 123b of another second cell (not shown); and the remaining open portion 124a of cell C would be closed by the secondary opposite surface 135b of the triangular facet 133b of the base structure 123b of cell iii cooperating with the primary opposite surface 134b of the quadrilateral facet 132b of the base structure 123b of another second cell (not shown). Moreover, the inclines of the respective facets are matched by corresponding inclines of opposite facets.

[0157] Accordingly, the respective quadrilateral and triangular facets 132 and 133 of a base surface 123 of a cell 120 may form a trapezoidal faceted surface portion 125 of their own inner end base surface 126 as half of a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface 126. The quadrilateral facets 132 of each base structure 123 also define a quadrilateral opposite surface 134 for forming one of the faces of the trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface 126 of the inner end of an opposite cell. The triangular facets 133 of each base structure 123 also define a triangular opposite surface 135 for forming half of one of the faces of the trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface 126 of the inner end of an opposite cell. That is, the opposite surface 135a of a triangular facet 133a of a first cell 120a may cooperate with the triangular facet 133b of a second cell 120b to define a rhomboidal surface of a portion of the second cell’s base surface 126b.

[0158] Put another way, the base structure 123 of each cell may define one and a half rhomboidal surfaces 125 of its own cell’s base surface 126, the remaining portion 127 of the base surface 126 is then defined by an opposite surface 135 of a triangular facet of an opposite base structure 123 cooperating with an opposite surface 134 of a quadrilateral facet 132 of another opposite base structure 123. In this way, triangular facets may cooperate with other triangular facets to define rhomboidal surfaces (or quadrilateral facets); triangular facets may also cooperate with quadrilateral facets to define trapezoidal faceted surfaces; and pairs of trapezoidal faceted surfaces may cooperate to define the trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surfaces. Accordingly, the various faceted surfaces of base structures and end structures may tesselate and cooperate to substantially close the inner end of cells and define faceted concave base surfaces of such cells. Advantageously, the first and second cells may be offset such that first cells are not coaxial with second cells, which enables the tessellation of the inner endstructures allows both the first and second cells to respectively have concave faceted base surfaces, without impinging on each other.

[0159] Referring to FIGURE 13, there is depicted a partial view of the corresponding inner face 112a and 112b of each of a first module 110a and a second module 110b. The first module 110a includes first cells 120a with their inner ends 122a partially closed by first base structures 123a. The first base structures 123a of three adjoining first cells are clustered to define first inner end structures 130a. The second module 110b includes second cells 120b with their inner ends 122b partially closed by second base structures 123b. The second base structures 123b of three adjoining second cells are clustered to define second inner end structures 130b. The first inner end structures 130a are arranged along the inner face 112a of the first module 110a to define first inner end recesses 136a configured to receive corresponding second inner end structures 130b, when the modules are joined along their inner faces. The second inner end structures 130b are arranged along the inner face 112b of the second module 110b to define second inner end recesses 136b configured to receive corresponding first inner end structures 130a, when the modules are joined along their inner faces.

[0160] In figure 13, the second cells 120b are superimposed, in dashed lines, over the inner face 112a of the first module 110a; and the first cells 120a are superimposed, in dashed lines, over the inner face 112b of the second module 110b, as if the modules were joined along their respective inner faces 112a and 112b. Accordingly, it can be seen that the second cells 120b are vertically offset by approximately a third of a height of a cell; and horizontally offset by approximately half of the width of a cell, relative to the first cells 120a. Similarly, the first cells 120a are offset relative to the second cells 120b. Thus, when the first and second modules are joined along their inner edges, the apex 129a of each first cell 120a is substantially centred over a junction of three second cells 120b and the apex 129b of each second cell 120b is substantially centred over the junction of three first cells 120a. In this way, the depth of the base surface 126a of each first cell 120a extends into a recess of a junction of the second cells 120b; and the depth of the base surface 126b of each second cell 120b extends into a recess of a junction of the first cells 120a. Therefore, the first and second base structures 123a and 123b tesselate and cooperate to close respective inner ends 122a and 122b of the first and second cells 120a and 120b in a relatively thin cassette, without requiring excessivethickness through the joined interface 101 to accommodate the depth of both the first and second cells.

[0161] Once again, whilst figures 11 -13 depict hexagonal cells and end structures with triangular and quadrilateral facets forming trapezoidal faceted surfaces which join together to form trihedral rhomboidal pyramids, in alternative embodiments, alternative structures and combinations of structures are also possible. For example, the cells may be substantially circular in cross section and may have sinusoidal end structures which tessellate to form concave bowl base surfaces of respective cells. Alternatively, cells may be square in cross section and may have quadrilateral end structures which tesselate to form square pyramid base surfaces. Many alternative configurations and arrangements are possible, although the hexagonal and trihedral rhomboid structure is able to emulate the natural structure preferred by bees.

[0162] Referring now to FIGURE 14 and FIGURE 15, there is depicted a further embodiment of a cassette 100 including a first separable module 110a and second separable module 110b. The cassette 100 is generally similar to the above described modules and thus similar features will not be described again in detail. However, where the above described embodiments included cells 120 with an axis 113 orthogonal to the outer face 111 of the modules 110, in figures 14 and 15, the cells 120 are angled with respect to the outer faces 111 of the modules 110. In particular, the first cells 120a extend away from the first outer face 111a at a first cell angle; and the second cells 120b extend away from the second outer face 111 b at a second cell angle. In particular, the first and second cells 120a and 120b extend at a cell angle of approximately 11 ° down from horizontal (normal to the outer face). In alternative embodiments, the cells may be angled down between approximately 10-15°. Advantageously, such cell angles may emulate the natural structure preferred by bees. In alternative embodiments, alternative cell angles are possible.

[0163] The cell angle may extend to the inner end of each cell, wherein the base structures may be parallel to the outer face. Alternatively, the end structures of each cell may be angled at an angle the same as (or corresponding to) the cell angle. As can be seen in the side view of figure 14, the first and second cells 120a and 120b are offset such that their angled end structures 123a and 123b tessellate in a wave, zigzagging through the joined interface 101. Additionally, when the modules include cells at a cellangle, the extraction device may be configured in cooperation with the cell angle. In particular the carrier may include slots at an angle such that modules are held at an angle to align the cell axis substantially transverse to the spindle axis to maximise centrifugal force imparted on the honey.

[0164] Referring now to FIGURE 16, there is depicted a partial sectional view of the joined interface 101 of a cassette 100 including first and second separable modules 110a and 110b. In the view of figure 16 it can be seen how the first inner end structures 130a of the first module 110a are received into corresponding recesses 136b of the second module 110b; and the second inner end structures 130b of the second module 110b are received into corresponding recesses 136a of the first module 110a. The faceted inner end structures 130 are generally similar to above described embodiments and additionally include an extending facet 138, extending from each of the quadrilateral facets 132 and a recess 139 in each of the quadrilateral facets 132. The inner end structures 130 of each module 110 are configured such that the extending facets 138a of first inner end structures 130a extend into the recesses 139b of the quadrilateral facets 132b of second inner end structures 130b; and the extending facets 138b of second inner end structures 130b extend into the recesses 139a of the quadrilateral facets 132a of first inner end structures 130a. Furthermore, the extending facets 138 of each base structure 123 may extend to overlap with extending facets 138 of adjacent base structures 123 of the respective module 110.

[0165] The extending facets 138, as in figure 16, may facilitate the base structures 123 and inner end structures 130 being angled to close the inner end 122 of angled cells 120 of modules 110 when joined together. Whilst the cells of figure 16 are angled, the extending facets and recesses are also applicable to configurations with (horizontal) cells normal to the faces of the modules. Additionally, the extending facets 138 may provide a structure for each module 110 which facilitates injection moulding of the modules. In particular, the extending facets 138 may provide for flow channels, connecting base structures 123 to base structures 123, within moulds of the modules 110 to improve flow of the melt when being injected into the mould. Furthermore, in additional or alternative embodiments, alternative base structures and end structures are also possible.

[0166] Referring now to FIGURES 17A to 17C, there is depicted a further embodiment of a cassette 100 including a first separable module 110a and second separable module 110b. The cassette 100 is generally similar to the above described modules and thus similar features will not be described again in detail. The first module 110a includes module key structures 119 configured to couple the cassette to corresponding structures of a frame. The module key structures are configured to hold the cassette in place within and / or relative to a frame of a hive box, when in use. In this example, the module key structure is an elongate projection, visible on one side of the first module 110a. The first module 110a may also include key structures along the opposite side, bottom face and / or top face.

[0167] The first module 110a further includes first mating key structures 184 configured to couple the first module 110a with corresponding second mating key structures 186 of the second module 110b. In this example, the first mating key structures 184 are in the form of a pair of elongate openings configured to receive the second mating key structures 186 in the form of a pair of elongate projections. In alternative embodiments, the first and second mating key structures 184 and 186 may be alternative keyed structures configured to couple the first module 110a to the second module 110b.

[0168] Each of the first and second modules 110a and 110b include an indent 118, in this example, along their mated top face. The indent 118 in each module 110a and 110b is configured such that, when the modules are mated, the indents define a recess that is not rotationally symmetric. In this example, the recess defined by the mated indents is wider than it is long. The indents 118 may provide a recess that allows access for a tool 188, for example a cassette tool, pry bar or hive tool, to be placed in and twisted. In such an action the tool 188 is received by the recess of the indents 118 and when the tool abuts the modules 110a and 110b in a quarter turn twisting action, the respective modules 110a and 110b are conveniently levered apart to open the cassette and access its content.

[0169] Referring now FIGURES 18A and 18B, in the side view of figure 18A the first mating key structures 184 of the first module 110a can be seen receiving the second mating structures key 186 of the second module 110b. The mated key structures 184 and 186 are configured to hold the respective modules 110a and 110b of the cassette together. The projecting second mating key structures 186 of the second module 110binclude appropriate shaped (sloped or chamfered) edges which allow the first mating key structures 184 of the first module 110b to slide over and receive the second mating key structures 186. As shown in figure 18B, when mated, the first and second modules 110a and 110b are mated along a joined interface 101 , with projections and recesses defined by the cooperating base structures, base surfaces and cells of the respective modules.

[0170] Referring now to FIGURES 19A to 19D, there is depicted another embodiment of a frame 140 including a plurality of apertures 141 for receiving respective frame inserts 190 which in turn are configured to receive respective cassettes 100. Each frame insert 190 is configured to be mounted to a frame 140. Each frame insert 190 then allows a cassette 100 to fit into a separately designed frame including, for example, a conventional hive box frame. In this way, a single cassette 100 may be applicable to, and retrofitted to, existing hive boxes without requiring replacement of an entire frame. Multiple inserts may be inserted into a single frame to enable that frame to receive multiple respective cassettes.

[0171] As shown in figure 19A, each aperture 141 of the frame 140 may include a keyed structure, for example, along its bottom face to receive a corresponding projection on a respective insert 190, allowing the insert 190 to be inserted into and clip into the aperture. Alternatively, the inserts 190 may be affixed to frames by alternative means, for example, friction fit, fixtures or the like. Each insert 190 is then configured to receive a cassette 100. Each insert includes insert key structures 192 configured to couple with corresponding module key structures 119 of cassettes, for example, module key structures 119. In this example, each insert includes respective insert key structures 192 along its internal bottom and side faces, corresponding to the module key structures 119 along the outer bottom and side faces of the first module 110a of the cassette. In alternative embodiments, alternative shapes, numbers and placements of the key structures are possible.

[0172] Accordingly, as shown in figures 19C and 19D, a cassette 100 may be inserted into and mounted within an insert 190, wherein the insert key structures 192 couple with the module key structures 119. In this way, the inserts are then applicable to frames of hive boxes generally, enabling one or more cassettes to be retrofitted to existing frames and hive box configurations.

[0173] Therefore, embodiments of the present disclosure, including various combinations of the above described features, may provide efficient and / or convenient systems and method for producing, harvesting, and / or extracting honey.

[0174] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms. For example, the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.

[0175] In certain instances, the present disclosure uses the terms “first,” “second,” etc. to describe various elements. Unless the context requires otherwise, these terms are used only to distinguish elements (and sets of elements) from one another and not in an ordinal sense. For example, a first element or feature could be termed a second element or feature or vice versa without departing from the scope of the described examples. Moreover, multiple first elements may exist without any such second elements and / or multiple second elements may exist without any such first element.

[0176] As used herein, except where the context requires otherwise, the terms “include” and “comprise” (and variations thereof such as “including”, “includes”, “comprising”, “comprises”, “comprised” and the like) are used inclusively and do not exclude further features, components, integers, steps, or elements.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules, each separable module including: an outer face and an opposite inner face; and a plurality of artificial honeycomb cells, each artificial honeycomb cell extending from an outer end, at the outer face, to an inner end, at the inner face, wherein the inner end of each artificial honeycomb cell is partially closed by a respective base structure; wherein, the separable modules are configured such that, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces, the respective base structures mate to substantially close respective inner ends of the artificial honeycomb cells.

2. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the inner end of each artificial honeycomb cell is closed by a respective base structure.

3. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 2, wherein the separable modules are configured to be separably joined along their inner faces to define a joined interface; and wherein, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces, the respective base structures are configured to mate to substantially close a remaining portion of the inner end of respective artificial honeycomb cells.

4. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 3, wherein each artificial honeycomb cell defines a respective cell axis; and wherein, when the separable modules are separated, the cells are split along the joined plane, substantially transverse to the cell axis, such that the remaining portion of the inner end of each artificial honeycomb is opened.

5. The artificial honeycomb cassette of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces, each artificial honeycomb cell includes a base surface at the base of the inner end of the respective artificial honeycomb cell.

6. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 5, wherein the base surface is one or more of: a concave surface; a faceted surface; a rhomboidal surface; a trihedral rhomboidal pyramid surface; and a substantially flat surface.

7. The artificial honeycomb cassette of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each base structure, of each separable module, defines a portion of a base surface at the inner end of the respective artificial honeycomb cell of the respective separable module.

8. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 7, wherein each base structure, of each separable module, is configured to define a remaining portion of the base surface at the inner end of a corresponding artificial honeycomb cell of the other separable module.

9. The artificial honeycomb cassette of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the artificial honeycomb cells, of each separable module, are coaxial with the artificial honeycomb cells, of the other separable module, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces.

10. The artificial honeycomb cassette of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the artificial honeycomb cells, of each separable module, are offset relative to the artificial honeycomb cells, of the other separable module, when the separable modules are joined along their inner faces.11 . The artificial honeycomb cassette of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each separable module includes a peripheral structure for mounting the separable module to: a frame of a hive box; or a carrier of an extraction device.

12. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 1 1 , wherein the peripheral structure of each separable module is configured to: mount the artificial honeycomb cassette to the frame, in an operation orientation, wherein the separable modules are joined along their inner faces; and mount the respective separable module to the carrier, in an extraction orientation, wherein the separable modules are separated from each other.

13. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 12, wherein the operation orientation and the extraction orientation are inverse.

14. The artificial honeycomb cassette of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pair of separable modules includes a first separable module and a second separable module.

15. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 14, wherein the first separable module and the second separable module are interchangeable with each other.

16. An artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules, each separable module including: an outer face and an opposite inner face; a plurality of artificial honeycomb cells, each artificial honeycomb cell extending from an outer end, at the outer face, to an inner end, at the inner face; and a mounting structure configured for mounting to a frame in an operation orientation and for mounting to an extraction device in an extraction orientation.

17. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 16, wherein in the operation orientation, the separable modules are joined along their inner faces.

18. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 16 or 17, wherein in the extraction orientation, the inner faces of the separable modules are separated from each other.

19. The artificial honeycomb cassette of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the mounting structure of each module includes a peripheral flange around at least a portion of the respective module.

20. The artificial honeycomb cassette of claim 19, wherein the peripheral flange of each module extends substantially flush with the outer face of the respective module.21 . A system for use in honey production, the system including an artificial honeycomb cassette including a pair of separable modules; and a frame insert configured to be mounted in a frame of a hive box and to receive the artificial honeycomb cassette.

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