FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is enclosed in the area of agriculture, more specifically beekeeping or apiculture. Furthermore, the technical contribution of the present invention is to provide for the feeding or drinking of bees.

Having its own means of support, the current invention can operate as stand-alone or attached to a beehive for the purpose of delivering sanitary water to the bees.

TECHNICAL PROBLEM

The technical problem solved by this invention is how to design a hygienic dispenser for bees. The device by the present invention provides the water protected from atmospheric precipitation and bee droppings.

Moreover, bees cannot drown in the water contained in the dispenser.

The present device constantly provides the approximately same level of water at the top of the landing area, wherein landing area should be vertical so that dirt and bee droppings could not remain on it.

The device according to present invention provides that bees, standing on dry surface of the landing area, can safely and easily take the required amount of the water, the bees being limited to the specific position within the device so that their back parts of the bodies could not be positioned above the water and accidentally release feces into the water.

The bee predators cannot take water from the dispenser.

The dispenser may be water supplied from the water supply system, all open tanks without water losses and from closed tanks without water losses.

This device has the possibility of constant exchange of water supplied from the rivers and streams.

This device is mobile, easily moved by a beekeeper.

Depending on the dimensions of the housing and the length of the troughs, this device provides the water supplying minimally 1000 bees at the same time. The present device can be self- leveled without additional tools.

One of the main advantages is that the device is configured for stable functioning and dispensing water to bees on soft (inconsistent) terrains, where after horizontal installation may be a later tilting of the dispenser to a certain angle.

How to provide a dispenser for water supply of a large number of bees at the same time, which prevents the content contamination, which has multiple possibilities of water supply and which provides stable water supply on flat and hard surfaces as well as on uneven and inconsistent terrains. The dispenser by the present invention also reduces the labor of beekeepers, allowing him a longer absence and the ability to check the water level in the dispenser at any time via received SMS.

PRIOR ART

Bees are fed with water from uncontrolled water sources, often from natural springs or ponds. Bees, however, need to be provided with means to be able to access the water without drowning which is often not assured in the aforementioned water sources. Such fact can lead to bees drowning or potential infections to the feeding bees due to, for example, dead bees and or faeces in water. Early solutions to this issue were provided with means to allow the bees to access the water without drowning, such as rocks or wood sticks at water level. Such primitive solutions are not efficient in preventing bees from drowning and maintaining water hygiene. Bees need water for freshening up and moisturizing beehives, as well as for dilution of honey which is used for nourishment of larvae.

Improved solutions include adaptations of vacuum water dispersers for supply of drinking water to bees, which are usually used for supply of drinking water for chickens etc. P. Additionally, the area where bees land for feeding is covered by means of a soft, porous material, namely a sponge or tissue, to prevent bees from drowning while accessing the water. Nevertheless, solutions such as the aforementioned, still lack means to efficiently prevent drowning or faeces to fall into the water.

More recently, solutions include a recipient with means of support where said recipient includes an opening and a channel adapted to water the feeding platform to a certain level. Disadvantages of this type of solution include exposure of the water container to solar radiation, often insufficient container capacity, lingered levelling and the lack means to allow simultaneous feeding from a large number of bees. Furthermore, in case of a water supply shortage, bees tend to search for an alternative water source which may ultimately lead to bees evading the beehive perimeter.

High risk of bee poisoning is posed by open watering stations in which the surface of the water taken by the bees is partially or completely open. In this way, bee droppings reach the water and infectious diseases spread, also after agricultural pollination, mosquito dusting, etc., poisonous particles from the air end up in the water through the rain. According to our research, over 99% of beehives which use a watering stations, use open water stations because there is no device on the market that solves this problem. The only closed watering stations are jars filled with water, turned with an opening towards the ground, wherein the opening is covered with a tight piece of cloth from which the bees take water. The disadvantage of these waterers is the small amount of water, high labor costs, a small number of bees which can take water at the same time. From the aspect of hygiene, the disadvantage is that the bees take water from the landing area and that a damp cloth is an ideal place for the development of bacteria. Despite the mentioned shortcomings, it is considered as the waterers with the highest degree of hygiene. This method of water supplying is used in apiaries that have only a few hives. Man consumes the same water through bee products as bees that do not have the ability to smell toxic water. The bees find the dirty water rather than clean guided by smell, and they use it in the state in which they found it in the nature.

Alternatively, patent HRP921451A2, shows an automatic water dispenser for bees which includes a valve to regulate the water level in the trough, which is divided in two distinct sections. The first section is adapted to calculate the weight of the liquid and opens or stops the water supply respectively over or under a pre-determined weight value. Such invention lacks in providing solution for a large number of bees to be fed simultaneously as well as means to prevent the feces from being dropped in the water.

The patent application US 1406568A describes a water trough for bees consisting of said trough connected to a water supply, the water supply being controlled automatic by a valve operable by the feeding platform in such manner that as the board drops with the level of the water to a certain position, the valve will be opened to admit water to the trough. Such application lacks in disclosing means of protection, thus various types of impurity may fall onto the feeding platform.

Patent DE3525142A1 presents a system for feeding and watering honey bees which consists of a reservoir connected through a hose to a float operated valve. Such system requires the reservoir to be filled frequently by means of an operator, namely the beekeeper.

Lastly, patent application RU2663053C1 shows a device for providing water to bees. The device includes several shelves, where the uppermost of said shelves supports a water container connected to an opening and a bypass mechanism fixed on the bottom of said uppermost shelf, which includes an air intake channel, a spring valve and an outlet chamber. The chamber is equipped with a fixed pipe and an adjustment valve. The lowermost shelf supports a battery, a number of feeding platforms, each containing a cup with a non-slip material plate, and a funnel. The invention operates in a way that the valve opens when triggered by a certain weight value allowing gravity to take action over the liquid in the container and re-filling the central sections. The main disadvantage of such invention is that poor water management and temperature control.

The present solution intended to innovatively overcome such issues. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water dispenser (1) for providing sanitary water for the feeding of bees. The water dispenser (1) may comprise:

- a housing body (3) comprising an outlet valve (3.7), an inlet pipe (3.4), an inlet valve (3.9), protrusions (3.8) on the bottom surface (3.1) of said housing (3) adapted to accommodate a mechanical valve (3.6) having a pivoting arm (3.6.1), the housing body further comprising the system of half-pipes,

- a bearing floating platform (2) adapted to fit, optionally interchangeably fit, the interior of said housing (3), the floating platform further comprising a circular opening (2.6) in its centre adapted for the pipe 3.4 to be fit in, a number of longitudinal troughs (2.1; 2.2), optionally disposed parallelly in series of two, arranged around the perimeter of said floating platform, and means of fixation for the troughs,

- means of providing sanitary water, optionally a hose (8), configured to provide water from the housing (3) to the troughs (2.1; 2.2) of the bearing platform (2), wherein the water dispenser (1) further comprises water level sensing means (11) configured to detect the water level within the water dispenser, optionally in the said pipe (3.4).

In an embodiment, water level detecting system comprises a capacitive water column height sensor (11), a battery (15), Arduino uno microcontroller (16), GSM/GPRS module (17), wherein sensor (11) measures the water column height in the water dispenser (1) and sends that information via GSM/GPRS in the form of a text message to the user.

In an embodiment, the housing (3) may comprise an inlet pipe (3.4) sectioned by longitudinal wall (14), resulting with a first half (12.1) and a second half (12.2) of the pipe (3.4), wherein in first half (12.1) there are first (13.1) and second (13.2) channels, wherein said first channel (13.1) stores the sensor cables (11.1) and said second channel (13.2) comprises two longitudinal slots (3.4.3 (1)) to allow water to fill its interior and be measured by sensor (11). The second half (12.2) of the pipe (3.4) comprises a half-pipe (3.10) and a half -pipe (7) with a limiter (3.4.2).

In an embodiment, the dispenser (1) may further comprise means of support of said housing (3), optionally such means comprising at least four adjustable legs (3.3) provided with means of retraction and extension and support panels (3.5) at its lower end.

In an embodiment, the bearing floating platform (2) may comprise a wreath (2.7) around its uppermost surface (2.3) adapted to prevent the water to leaking into the housing.

A sanitary water dispenser (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the floating platform (2) further comprises adjustable suspension means (2.8; 2.9; 2.10) for the longitudinal troughs (2.1). A sanitary water dispenser (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the floating platform (2) further comprises adjustable suspension means (2.8; 2.9) for the longitudinal troughs (2.2).

In an embodiment, the said adjustable suspension means for the trough (2.1) may comprise a jagged metal strip (2.2.4) adjustable by means of screw (2.9) connected through a hinge (2.10) to a longitudinal bar (2.8).

In an embodiment, the said adjustable suspension means for the trough (2.2) may comprise a jagged metal strip (2.2.4) adjustable by means of screw (2.9) attached to a longitudinal bar (2.8). In an embodiment, the troughs (2.1; 2.2) may be provided with combs (2.1.3) adapted to fit the longitudinal groove of the troughs (2.1; 2.2).

In an embodiment, the combs (2.1.3) may comprise longitudinal (2.1.5) and transverse (2.1.6) strips adapted to form cube-shaped grooves for the feeding of the bees.

In an embodiment, the troughs (2.1; 2.2) may comprise a protective cap (2.1.1; 2.2.2) along its longitudinal direction adapted to prevent impurities from falling on the drinking water.

In an embodiment, the means of providing sanitary water may comprise at least one hose (8) adapted to attach to each pipe (3.11) provided on the bottom surface (3.1) of the housing (3) and outlet opening (2. 1.2) of the first trough (2.1) and outlet opening (2.2.3) of the second trough (2.2), respectively.

In an embodiment, the water may be supplied to the water dispenser (1) from the water supply system through the mechanical valve (3.6) by means of exerting a mechanical force on a pivoting arm (3.6. 1) connected to the said mechanical valve (3.6).

In one embodiment, the water dispenser (1) may be supplied from the running water (unlimited resources), wherein water enters into the housing (3) through the inlet valve (3.9), passes through the half-pipe (3.10) and then exits through the valve (3.7) from the housing (3) . By this embodiment it is enabled the constant change of water in the water dispenser (1).

In an embodiment, the water may be supplied by a vacuum water reservoir (4) by means of a half-pipe (7), a hose (6) comprising a valve (5), wherein said water reservoir (4) is equipped with a transparent water level hose (4. 1) and a valve (4.2).

In an embodiment, the dispenser (1) may further comprise a protecting lid (9) with a circular opening in its centre and providable on uppermost surface (2.3) of the platform (2).

In an embodiment, when the water supply is provided from the reservoir (4), said reservoir (4) may be connected to a first sanitary water dispenser (1) which is connected at its outlet valve (3.9) to a hose (10) which supplies water to second sanitary water dispenser (1) through its bottom valve (3.9). DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Figure 1 discloses a cross-sectional A-A’ representation of an embodiment of the water dispenser (1) placed on flat terrain, the water dispenser (1) comprising a bearing floating platform (2) having an upper surface (2.3), an lower surface (2.4) and side walls (2.5) and a housing (3) with medial walls (3.2) set at an angle in relation to the bottom surface (3.1), adapted to enclose said surface of the platform (2), a pipe (3.4) placed in the center of the housing (3), comprising a half-pipe (7), a half-pipe (3.10) and a water level sensor (11), wherein the half-pipe (7) is connected to a water supply via hose (6), an outlet valve (3.7) and two mechanical valves (3.6) at an angle a from 10 to 15 °, preferably of about 13° in relation to the bottom surface (3.1) of the housing (3. Housing (3) additionally comprises a valve (3.9) adapted to serve as an optional water source for the housing (3). Said housing (3) additionally comprises adjustable legs (3.3) and support panels (3.5). The bearing floating platform body has wreath (2.7) around its upper surface (2.3) and a central opening (2.6) with a diameter of at least 16mm larger than the diameter of pipe (3.4). The floating platform (2) additionally comprises troughs (2.1; 2.2) connected to the housing (3) via a number of hoses (8). The said troughs (2.1) are connected via the jagged metal strips (2.2.4) to the screws (2.9) attached to the hinges (2.10), which are connected to the bars (2.8), while the said troughs (2.2) are connected via the jagged metal strips (2.2.4) to the screws (2.9) attached to the bars (2.8). In Figure 1 the bottom surface (2.4) of the platform (2) slightly touches without pressing the pivoting arms (3.6.1), wherein the both valves (3.6) are in closed position. Figure 1 additionally shows a high h at which the limiter (3.4.2) is placed, a high hl which represents the high of the longitudinal slits (3.4.3) and slots (3.4.3.(1)) and a high h2 which represents the high of the water level when the dispenser (1) is supplied via the valve (3.6).

Figure 2 discloses a cross-section A-A’ representation of an embodiment of the water dispenser (1) when placed on uneven terrain, i.e., the housing (3) is tilted maximally. The walls (3.2) are set at an angle P in relation to the bottom surface (3.1) of the housing (3), while one wall (3.2) occupies a vertical position, being parallel to the side wall (2.5) of the platform (2), and the second wall (3.2) touches the side wall (2.5) of platform, by its top. In Figure 2 the bottom surface (2.4) of the platform (2) slightly touches, without pressing one pivoting arm (3.6.1), wherein the both valves (3.6) are in closed position. Figure 2 shows that one through (2.1) occupies the vertical position, while the other through (2.1) abuts the wall (3.2), being moved by the hinges (2.10).

Figure 3 represents the top view on the water dispenser (1) having four inner troughs (2. 1) and one outer trough (2.2) made of one piece, wherein the protecting lid (9) is removed. Detail “B” shows enlarged view of the central opening (2.6) comprising the pipe (3.4) with it’s elements. Figure 4 represents a detail “A” from the Figure 1 - an exemplificative configuration of the protrusions (3.8) of the bottom surface (3.1) of the housing (3) which comprise a pivoting arm

(3.6.1) that acts in the mechanical valve (3.6). The pivoting arm (3.6.1) may act in the mechanical valve in an angle lower than 13°. The represented arrow shows the direction of water entry into the housing (3) through the valve (3.6).

Figure 5 shows a bottom view of an exemplificative configuration of the bottom surface (3.1) of housing (3), which comprehends a pairs of rectangle-shaped protuberances (3.1.4) adapted to accommodate the mechanical valves (3.6), four pairs of openings (3.1.3) adapted to fit the pipes (3.11) which connect to hoses (8) in the other end, a circular opening (3.1.2) adapted to connect the outlet of the valve (3.9) and a circular-shaped opening (3. 1.1) in the center of said surface (3.1) adapted to fit the outlet valve (3.7).

Figure 6 shows a bottom view of an exemplificative configuration of the of housing (3) which comprises the bottom surface (3.1), four support elements (3.5) adapted to support the housing (3), a pair of the protrusions (3.8) adapted to accommodate valves (3.6), connecting pipes (3.11) to supply water to troughs (2. 1 ; 2.2), valve (3.9) and the valve hose (3.9’), outlet valve (3.7) and outlet valve hose (3.7’). Additionally, Figure 6 shows a battery (15), a cabel (15.1), Arduino uno microcontroller (16), GSM/GPRS module (17), an antenna (17.1) and sensor cables (11.1) leading to the sensor.

Figure 7 depicts a preferred configuration of the invention comprising two interconnected water dispensers (1) in function where the water is supplied by a water reservoir (4) wherein said water reservoir (4) is equipped with an inlet valve (4.2) and transparent water level hose (4.1) connected to the reservoir (4) by means of pipes (4.3). The first water dispenser (1) is supplied via hose (6), a valve (5) and the half-pipe (7). Each of the two water dispensers (1) comprehends troughs (2.1; 2.2) at the whole of their perimeter and a protecting lid (9) to prevent impurities to reach the water in said water dispensers (1) by covering the central opening (2.6). The first and second water dispensers (1) are connected through hose (10).

Figure 7b shows the position of the bees on the landing area of the trough (2.1) while taking water from the respective boxes (2.1.4).

In represented embodiment two water dispensers (1) are connected at valves (3.9) and via the hose (10) and acts as communicating vessel.

Figure 8 shows a detailed view of an exemplificative comb (2.1.3) which comprises longitudinal (2.1.5) and transverse (2.1.6) strips disposed in a way to create boxes (2.1.4), preventing the bees from taking the transverse position which can lead to them polluting the water.

Figure 9 discloses the detailed view “B” in the cross-sectional view A-A’ of Figure 1 which shows an innertrough (2.1) comprising an outlet opening (2. 1.2), combs (2.1.3), protective caps

(2.1.1) and an outer trough (2.2) comprising an outlet opening (2.2.3), a medial mesh wall (2.2.1) with combs (2.1.3) and a protective cap (2.2.2). The inner (2.1) and the outer trough (2.2) are supplied with water from housing (3) through hoses (8) that connect to the pair of connecting pipes (3.11) and to the outlet openings (2. 1.2; 2.2.3) respectively on inner (2.1) and outer (2.2) trough. The water level in said troughs (2.1; 2.2) is equal to the high h2 representing the water level in the housing (3).

Figure 10A shows the water level sensor.

Figure 10B shows the longitudinal section of the pipe (3.4) which shows first channel (13.1) wherein the sensor cables (11.1) are housed and a second channel (13.2) where the water sensor (11) is housed. An half-pipe 3.10 is placed in the second half (12.2) of the pipe (3.4) connected to the central wall 14 of the pipe 3.4. The high of the half-pipe 3.10 is less than the height of the pipe 3.4 and the half-pipe 3.10 is narrower than the second half 12.2 of the pipe 3.4.

Figure 10C shows the detail of cross-sectionall view “C“ of the pipe 3.4 at the height of the half-pipe 3.10, so that the top of the half-pipe 3.10 is visible.

Figure 11 shows exploded view of the water dispenser (1) with lines (2.11) on the side walls (2.5) of the platform (2).

Figures 12-20 represents the data of the analysis performed on the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, the University of Belgrade

Figure 12 shows the hygienic dispenser for bees in an ideal position

Figure 13 shows the distance of the side wall 2.5 of the platform 2 from the top of the wall 3.2 of the housing

Figure 14 shows valve lever position in working position

Figure 15 represents three planes of inclination

Figure 16 depicts the maximum tilt along the orthogonal plane 1 in the working position Figure 17 depicts the maximum tilt along the orthogonal plane 1 in the activation position Figure 18 depicts the maximum tilt along the orthogonal plane 2 in the working position Figure 19 depicts the maximum tilt along the diagonal plane in the working position Figure 20 depicts the maximum tilt along the diagonal plane in the activation position. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1. Water dispenser

2. Bearing floating platform

2. 1.Inner trough

2.1.1. Protective cap

2.1.2. Outlet opening

2.1.3. Combs

2.1.4. Boxes

2.1.5. Longitudinal strips

2.1.6. Transverse strip

2.2. Outer trough

2.2.1. Mesh wall

2.2.2. Protective cap

2.2.3. Outlet opening

2.2.4. Jagged strips

2.3. Upper surface

2.4.Lower surface

2.5. Side wall

2.6. Central opening

2.7. Wreath

2.8. Bar

2.9. Screw

2.10. Hinges

2.11. Parallel lines

2.20. Body of the floating platform

3. Housing

3. 1.Bottom side

3.1.1. Opening

3.1.2. Circular opening

3.1.3. Two openings

3.1.4. Protuberance

3.2.Wall

3.3. Adjustable legs

3.4.Pipe

3.4.1. Reinforcing board

3.4.2. Limiter 3.4.3. Slits

3.4.3(1) Slots

3.5. Supporting panels

3.6. Mechanical valve

3.6.1. Pivoting arm

3.7. Outlet valve

3.7’. Hose

3.8 Protrusion 3.8.1 Opening

3.8.2 Entrance

3.8.3 Winding

3.9 Valve

3.9’. Valve hose

3.10 Half-pipe

3.11 Connecting pipes

3.12 Cap

3.13 Seal

4. Reservoir

4. 1 transparent water level hose 4.2 Valve

4.3 Pipe

5. Valve

6. Hose

7. Half-pipe

8. Hoses

9. Protector lid

10. Hose

11. Water level sensor

11.1 sensor cables

12.1 First half of the pipe 3.4

12.2 Second half of the pipe 3.4

13.1 First channel

13.2 Second channel

14 Central wall

15 Battery

15.1 Cable

16 Microcontrollers

17 GSM/GPRS module 17.1 Antenna

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As referred, the present invention provides a water dispenser (1) for providing sanitary water for bees. The water dispenser (1) thus is able to overcome prior art solutions by providing hygienic means for bees to be fed with water. The water dispenser (1) is further able to be provided in an uneven terrain and to maintain its full operation. The water dispenser (1) is further able to regulate the water level. Thus, it is a hygienic and autonomous solution for the water supply for bees.

Moreover and more particularly, the novel structure of the water dispenser prevents the bees to get infected by minimizing the contact of the bees and the water while still providing means for feeding a large number of bees at the same time; advantageously adapts to different sources of water supply, reducing the upkeep and maintenance tasks; has a capability to function without water loss and in certain embodiments has a possibility of constant water change ; enables periodically detection of the water level and sends the related information to the beekeeper, has a capability of self-levelling up to 5 degrees in relation to the horizontal position; it is completely safe for watering bees, allows continuous supply of water and unlike other open dispensers, the water contained in the dispenser according the present invention is protected from the external pollution (for example bee’s faeces, dirty and acid rains); prevents the spread of infectious diseases; enables the absence of the beekeeper for the long period of time; may be installed on uneven and inconsistent terrains; lastly, advantageously provides the possibility of group feeding of bees with sugar syrup.

In an embodiment, the water dispenser (1) may comprise:

- a housing body (3) comprising an outlet valve (3.7), an inlet pipe (3.4), an inlet valve (3.9), protrusions (3.8) on the bottom surface (3.1) of said housing (3) adapted to accommodate a mechanical valve (3.6) having a pivoting arm (3.6.1), the housing body further comprising the system of half-pipes,

- a bearing floating platform (2) adapted to fit, optionally interchangeably fit, the interior of said housing (3), the floating platform further comprising a circular opening (2.6) in its centre adapted for the pipe 3.4 to be fit in, a number of longitudinal troughs (2.1; 2.2), optionally disposed parallelly in series of two, arranged around the perimeter of said floating platform, and means of fixation for the troughs,

- means of providing sanitary water, optionally a hose (8), configured to provide the water from the housing (3) to the troughs (2.1; 2.2) of the bearing platform (2), wherein the water dispenser (1) further comprises water level sensing means (11) configured to detect the water level within the water dispenser, optionally in the said pipe (3.4). The botom surface 3.1 of the housing 3 has a square shape, although it can be made in the shape of a rectangle, a circle or polygonal. It should be understanded that the shape of the platform corresponds to the shape of the botom surface 3.1 of the housing 3.

Preferably, in an embodiment, water level detecting system comprise of a capacitive water column height sensor (11), a batery (15), Arduino uno microcontroller (16), GSM/GPRS module (17), wherein sensor (11) measures the water column height in the water dispenser (1) and sends that information via GSM/GPRS in the form of a text message to the user. Additionally, system comprises cable 15.1 leading from batery 15 to Arduino uno microcontroller 16, cable 11.1 leading from GSM module 17 to sensor 11, and antenna 17.1. The water level sensing means are configured to wake up from a power level of hibernation several times a day, measure the height of the water column and then forwards this information to GSM module 17, which generates the SMS message which is sent to the beekeeper. The water level sensing means are configured to then go into hibernation again. In this way, a very long life of the batery 15 is achieved. The GSM/GPRS module 17 allows the Arduino uno microcontroller 16 to receive and send SMS and make voice calls using the GSM library. Figure 6 shows the arrangement of the parts from below.

In a preferred embodiment, the water dispenser (1) comprises a tube 3.4 which is longitudinally divided by means of a central wall 14 into two halves, so that in the first half 12.1 of the pipe 3.4, there is the first channel 13.1 through which the sensor cables 11.1 pass being protected from the water. The water level sensor 11 is placed into the second channel 13.2, wherein the second channel 13.2 has two longitudinal slots (3.4.3 (1)) at the height hl through which the water reaches the sensor 11, which longitudinal slots (3.4.3 (1)) are parallel to the side of the sensor 11. The half-pipe 3.10 is placed in the second half 12.2 of the pipe 3.4, wherein the halfpipe 3. 10 is longitudinally cut and connected to the central wall 14 of the pipe 3.4. The high of the half-pipe 3.10 is less than the height of the pipe 3.4 and the half-pipe 3.10 is narrower than the second half 12.2 of the pipe 3.4. The half-pipe 3.10 determines the height of the water level when the dispenser is supplied from unlimited resources, and is connected to a valve 3.7. A half-tube 7 is inserted in the second half 12.2 of the pipe 3.4, wherein the half-tube 7 is narrower than the second half of the pipe 3.4 and parallel to the inner walls of the second half 12.2 of the pipe 3.4. The half-tube 7 descends to the limiter 3.4.2 which determines the lowest level of water when the dispenser is supplied from the tank 4, that is a height h. On the second half 12.2 of the pipe 3.4 on the outer wall along the pipe 3.4 there are several longitudinal slits 3.4.3, at the height h 1 from the botom 3.1, which serve for the exit of water or sugar syrup from the pipe 3.4 in the housing 3 and for the entry of the water from the housing 3 into the pipe 3.10 when a constant change of water is desired. The said feedeing of the sugar syrup is enabled only by means of the reservoir 4. In a preferred embodiment of the water dispenser, the mechanical valves (3.6) located at the protrusions (3.8) of the bottom surface (3.1) of the housing (3) are activated by a pivoting arm

(3.6.1), installed at an angle a to the bottom surface (3. 1) of the housing (3). Due to the lowering of the level of the water in the housing (3), the platform (2) presses by its own weight the pivoting arm (3.6.1), the pivoting arm get curved, while an angle a, between the pivoting arm

(3.6.1) and the bottom surface (3.1) of the housing gets smaller, thus enabling water to enter into the housing (3) through the partially open seat of the valve (3.6). This embodiment is example of the priority mode of water supply from the water supply system via the valves 3.6 which may work at minimal pressure of 0.1 bar, according to the manufacturer specification. Optionally, the means of support of the dispenser comprehend a series of adjustable legs (3.3) and a support panel (3.5) at its end are adapted to extend and retract.

Construction of the dispenser allows the inclination of up to 5 degrees in relation to horizontal position of the housing without affecting the horizontal position of the floating platform and consequently the position of the feeding troughs (2. 1;2.2). This property of the water dispenser is called self-leveling and it is possible due to the angle p. Due to this property the water dispenser may be used on rugged or wet terrains it is allowed due to the acute angle beta formed between the walls (3.2) and the bottom surface (3.1).

At the very top of the housing 3, between the side surfaces 2.5 of the platform 2 and the walls 3.2 of the housing 3 there is a spacing. In case the platform approaches to one or two adjacent walls 3.2 of the housing 3 on one side of the dispenser 1, said spacing between the side surfaces 2.5 of the platform 2 and the walls 3.2 of the housing 3 on the opposite side of the dispenser 1 cannot exceed 2.5 mm.

Such spacing prevents the bee from entering into the housing 3.

Optionally, the fixation means comprise a bar (2.8), attached to the upper surface 2.3 of the floating platform (2) on the one end and on the other end to at least one, optionally two, adjustable metal strip (2.2.4), disposed perpendicularly to said bar (2.8), adapted to suspend each trough (2.1, 2.2). In this preferred embodiment, the adjustment of the trough’s height is achieved by rotating screws (2.9) in at the joint, which, with regard to the water level in the housing (3), can be used to control the water level in the troughs as the said troughs (2.1,2.2) are connected to the housing 3 via the elastic hoses 8.

In a preferred embodiment of the water dispenser, the combs (2.1.3) comprise parallel longitudinal strips (2.1.5) perpendicularly disposed to parallel transverse strips (2.1.6) forming cube-shaped boxes (2.1.4) along the longitudinal direction the troughs (2.1; 2.2). Fitting the combs (2.1.3) in said troughs ensures that bees lay over on outer side of the trough, facing away from or to the wall of the housing, feeding themselves by their proboscis which is 5 to 8 mm long, a high number of bees can be fed with sanitary water in said invention simultaneously. This way, bees are made sure to have as little contact with water, preventing water pollution and further minimizing the spreading of pathologies or drowning of said bees.

The water dispenser 1 is usually placed at the location where it is going to be used by bees where it is ensured that this location is protected against wind. The outlet valve 3.7 and the valve 3.9 should be hermetically closed. Valve 3.6 are closed when the pivoting arm 3.6.1 is not pressed by the platform 2 and they are placed under a angle in relation to the bottom surface

3.1. At the entrance 3.8.2 of the valve 3.6, caps 3.12 are firmly and hermetically screwed by means of seal 3.13. After this, the platform 2 is placed into the housing 3, in the way that the wreath 2.7 leans against the top of the wall 3.2. The following step includes connecting pipes 3.11 with outlet openings 2. 1.2 and 2.2.3 located at troughs 2.1 and 2.2, respectively whereby this is done via the hoses 8. Sanitary clean water is poured into the housing 3, up to the level h2. If necessary, the end of the hose 8 may be removed from the outlet openings 2.1.2, 2.2.3. at troughs 2.1, 2.2, whereby some water from the housing may be poured out, which is going to “push out” any potential air from the hoses 8, all of which is done for the purpose of prevention of forming an air pocket in hoses 8. Additionally, while water is still in hose 8, the hose 8 is fit over the outlet openings 2.1.2, 2.2.3. at troughs 2.1, 2.2.

The next step includes fitting the protector lid 9 over the pipe 3.4, whereby the protector lid leans against and slides along the upper surface 2.3 in horizontal direction and slides along the pipe 3.4 in the vertical direction in case when the housing 3 or platform 2 moves. Since troughs

2.1, 2.2 are connected to the housing 3 via pipes 8, thus forming the system of communicating vessels, said troughs 2.1 and 2.2 are filled with water up to the water level in the housing 3. When the high of the water level in the housing 3 equals h2, platform 2 floats in the horizontal position in the housing 3, and slightly touches without pressing the pivoting arms 3.6.1, wherein the valves 3.6 are closed.

Screwing in or screwing out the adjustable legs 3.3 is used for adjusting the position of the upper side of the wall 3.2, to be parallel with the lines 2.11 inscribed along the perimeter of the side walls 2.5 of the platform 2. In this way, the housing 3 is brought into the horizontal position. On this way the leveling of the housing is possible on the terrain at maximal inclination of 5 degrees.

In an embodiment where the water supply is from the reservoir 4, in order that the water dispenser 1 may function, it is necessary to place the reservoir 4 at a position above the water dispenser 1, for as much as to ensure that there is a constant drop of the hose 6 towards the water dispenser 1, as well as so as to ensure that the hose is tight. Additionally, the reservoir 4 must be placed in shade. After the reservoir is filled, the valve 4.2 is closed, so as to prevent air from reaching the reservoir 4, while the valve 5 is opened. The reservoir 4 may only be filled up to the marked maximum level on the transparent water level hose 4.1. Water from the reservoir 4 runs into the water dispenser 1, gravitationally and through effect of atmospheric pressure. When water level in the housing 3 reaches height h, the other end of the half-pipe 7 is covered by water and water does not run out from the reservoir 4. As soon as water level in the housing

3 drops below height h, the other end of the half-pipe 7 is “free”, and water again runs out from the reservoir 4, until it covers the mouth of the half- pipe 7 and thus reaches the balance of pressures. At the high h from the bottom surface 3. 1, it is placed a limiter 3.4.2 in the form of the protrusion on the inner surface of the second half 12.2 of the pipe 3.4. This high h represents the minimal water level when the dispenser is supplied from the reservoir 4. The cycles during which water runs out and during which it is closed are repeated until all water from the reservoir

4 is used.

In order for the water dispenser to be able to function, when it is supplied with water from the water supply system, which is the priority way of supplying, it is first necessary to remove caps 3.12. After that, the housing 3 of the water dispenser 1 is hermetically connected to the water supply system via the entrance opening 3.8.2, whereby this connection is made with the winding 3.8.3. Before reaching valves 3.6, water must be purified, i.e. chlorine must be removed from the water. Platform 2 presses against pivoting arms 3.6.1 with its own weight, whereby these pivoting arms get curved, while the a gets smaller, thus water reaches the housing 3 through the partially open seat of the valve 3.6. When water level in the housing 3 reaches the height h2, the floating platform 2 lifts up, wherein it slightly touches without pressing the pivoting arms

3.6.1. Valves 3.6 close and water supply to the housing 3 stops. As soon as water level in the housing 3 drops below the h2 level due to consumption, platform 2 presses the pivoting arms

3.6.1, thus leading the pivoting arms 3.6.1 to curve, seats of the valve 3.6 get partially open, and water re-enters the housing 3. If the water dispenser is located at a higher altitude in relation to the water supply system, it is necessary to install a non-retum valve on the mentioned water supply system so that in case of water loss there would be no return of water from the dispenser to the water supply system.

In order to ensure that the water dispenser 1 is functional in circumstances when it is supplied with water from running sources of water, the water dispenser 1 must be placed below the level from which the housing 3 is supplied with water through the valve 3.9, via hose 3.9’. When water is supplied through the valve 3.9, the entry point of the opening 3.8.2 must be hermetically closed with the cap 3.12. Opening and closing of the valves 3.7, 3.9 regulates the wanted water flow through the housing 3, after the water dispenser 1 is installed. In this way it is ensured that water in the housing 3 is constantly changed, which ensures the same quality of water as the water in the water stream, while it prevents loss of bees which occurs on the water stream. In case one wants to dispense water from the housing 3, for any reason, this may be done by removing the hose 3.9’ from the entry point to the valve 3.9 and by opening the valve 3.9. In order to clarify the functionality of the water dispenser according to the present invention, we enclose the following study performed on the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, University of Belgrade and the corresponding results:

The conceptual design of the analyzed model relates to a functioning of the hygienic dispenser supplied by valve 3.6 intended for connection to a water supply system, which represents a priority way of water supply for the dispenser. In addition to providing a constant supply of water, the drinker in question enables self-leveling by remaining a horizontal position of a platform thereby keeping the water level constant in the parts provided for water intake. This solves the technical problem, which consists in the possibility of maintaining vital parts of the dispenser in a horizontal position that can be disrupted due to external effects such as subsidence or the like.

This expert opinion contains an explanation and proof of the functionality of the hygienic dispenser for bees for the pre-planned subsidence of the substrate in the maximum value of 5 °. The conceptual design of a hygienic dispenser with valves 3.6 placed along a diagonal direction D-D of the housing is shown in Figure 12. It should be understood that represented data apply to the hygienic dispenser with orthogonally placed valves, as well. The figure 12 shows the ideal position, which means that the housing is in a completely horizontal position. In the cross section along the diagonal D-D of the housing, the same figure shows the position of the platform that lightly touches the levers of both valves that do not leak water in the observed position.

In the ideal position shown in Figure 12, the platform 2 is located centrically in relation to the housing 3, with a side wall 2.5 of the platform which form a gap of 1.25 mm with the top of the wall 3.2 of the housing 3, on each side. In the center of the platform there is an opening 2.6 with a diameter of 45 mm through which a pipe 3.4 with a diameter of 25 mm passes so that the platform 2 can be moved in the horizontal direction until the side wall 2.5 of the platform touches the wall 3.2 of the housing on one side and forms a gap of 2.5 mm. The gap in the vertices is 1.75mm when the platform is in the ideal position, and when the platform 2 moves maximally diagonally, the gap value is 3.5 mm. The defined gaps are shown in Figure 13.

The distance value of the valve lever from the axis of the vertical pipe 3.4 is 25 mm, and from the bottom 3.1 of the housing is 26.6 mm, while the axis of the valve lever makes an angle a with the bottom 3. 1 of the housing of 12 °. In this case, the lower side 2.4 of the platform is 34.5 mm away from the bottom 3.1 of the housing, which is shown in Figure 14. In this position, the valves are closed and the position of the platform is in the ideal working position.

All of the above is valid only in the case when the housing is in the ideal, ie. horizontal position. However, it is often the case that due to the subsidence of the terrain, the housing loses its originally defined position. In this case, it is necessary to check the extreme cases when the housing is tilted at the maximum angle defined by the construction in the value of 5 °. The wall 3.2 of the housing encloses the angle P with the bottom surface 3. 1 of the housing in the value of 85 °, which corresponds to the situation that the bottom of the housing encloses the angle with the horizontal in the value of 5 °.

In order to confirm the functionality of the dispenser in question, the tilting of the housing in three directions will be considered. Two that coincide with the direction walls 3.2 of the housing and one that is diagonal, and which coincides with the axis of rotation of the valve, Figure 15. In all positions of maximum tilt of the housing, it is necessary to show that the platform makes contact with valve levers, while the central opening 2.6 on the platform does not make contact with the pipe 3.4 in any of the listed cases.

When the inclination along the first orthogonal plane (OP1) is taken into account, the wall 3.2 of the housing occupies a completely vertical position, while the bottom 3.1 of the housing occupies an angle of 5 ° with the horizontal, Figure 16.

In this case, shown in Figure 16, the direction of the side wall 2.5 of the platform completely coincides with the vertical orientation of the wall 3.2 of the housing, while the gap between the side wall 2.5 of the platform and the top of the opposite wall 3.2 of the housing is 0.6mm. The working position of the valve levers is enabled, and in this case the minimum distance of the lower side 2.4 of the platform from the bottom 3. 1 of the housing is 15.2 mm, and the minimum distance of the wreath 2.7 of the platform from the top of the wall 3.2 of the housing is 11.5 mm.

The hinge 2.10 allows the inner trough 2. 1 to be tilted depending on the position of the housing, which is shown in detail B in Figure 16.

In the event that the platform would fall completely, then the valve lever 3.6.1 would occupy an angular position of a 3.6 °, which would allow water to flow, and thus the functionality of the dispenser. There is no contact between the pipe 3.4 and the platform, in above situations. All the listed dimensions are shown in Figure 17.

In case the platform falls completely so that the wreath 2.7 of the platform hits the top of the wall 3.2, minimal distance of the lower side 2.4 of the platform from the bottom 3.1 of the housing would be 3.9mm, Figure 17. In such a position, the valve lever 3.6. 1 would occupy an angular position of a 3.7 ° on the left and a 2.4 ° on the right valve 3.6, which would allow water to flow because even the smallest deflection of the valve lever is sufficient for the flow of water and thus the functionality of the dispenser. There is no contact between the pipe 3.4 and the platform, in above situations.

When the inclination in the orthogonal direction 2 (OP2) is observed, the results of the analysis are identical. That means that the direction of orthogonal inclination does not affect the position of the valve levers in the working and activation position. For simplicity, only the representation of the orthogonal inclination in direction 2 is given with two cross-sections (Figure 18) where the basic dimensions are seen, which are analyzed in detail within the work with orthogonal inclination in direction 1.

Tilting in the diagonal direction shown in Figure 15 is the most complex and the most unfavorable case of the position of the housing for the operation of the dispenser. In this case the platform adjusts to the position of the terrain so that it moves towards the vertex of the housing, touching both walls 3.2 of the housing. In this case, the maximum tilt in diagonal direction is equal to 5°, which if decomposed into two vertical components in orthogonal directions amounts 3.5 ° each.

Figure 19 shows the position of the dispenser in the working position where the water supply valves 3.6 are closed. In this case, the value of the maximum distance between the side wall 2.5 of the platform and the top of the wall 3.2 of the housing is equal to 0.6mm in two orthogonal directions, and diagonally is equal to 0.8mm. Minimum distance between the bottom 3. 1 of the housing and the lower side 2.4 of the platform in this position is 6.8mm. In this case of tilting, the pipe 3.4 is on the distance of 2.3 mm from the opening of the platform.

Figure 20 shows that the distance between the wreath 2.7 of the platform and the top of the wall 3.2 is 2.9mm (Detail D) and that is the maximum possible value by how much the platform can be lowered to activate valve lever and thus to activate the water supply. When the platform is lowered to the end so the upper side 2.3 of the platform strikes the top of the wall 3.2 of the housing, the value of the deflection angle of the valve lever is 0.9 °, and the distance between the lower side 2.4 of the platform and the bottom 3.1 of the housing is 4. 1mm, Figure 20.

Based on the presented expertise of CAD model analysis, it can be concluded that the functionality of the hygienic dispenser for bees is fully confirmed, when tilting of the dispenser due to the sinking of the legs of the dispenser, caused by wetting or subsidence of the soft and inconsistent terrain, is observed.

In a particular embodiment, the dispenser provides sanitary water for bees, and comprises:

- a housing body (3) adapted to be supplied by one of a series of sanitary water sources, such as but not limited to a river, a spring or a reservoir, wherein said housing is provided with side walls (3.2) that present an acute angle with the bottom surface, wherein said housing (3) comprises:

- an outlet valve (3.7) hermetically attached to a first opening 3.1. 1 in the bottom surface 3.1 of the housing 3 adapted to drain the feeding water when above a predefined threshold, which is determined by the high of the half-pipe 3.10,

- at least one valve (3.9) hermetically attached to a second opening 3.1.2 in the bottom surface 3.1 of the housing 3 adapted to supply water to the housing; - a number of pairs of third openings (3.1.3) in the bottom surface 3.1 hermetically attached to an equal number of pair of pipes (3.11) which connect to each trough (2.1 ;2.2),

- at least a pair of protrusions (3.8) in the bottom surface (3.1) wherein each of said protrusions (3.8) comprise an opening adapted to fit a mechanical valve (3.6) having a pivoting arm (3.6.1) disposed in such way that is activated by action of a mechanical force at his other end,

- at least four elements of support (3.3) attached to said bottom surface 3.1 adapted to support the housing, wherein said elements are provided with means of retraction and extension,

- a pipe (3.4) disposed at the centre of said housing, adapted to house means of detecting the water level, wherein said pipe (3.4) is divided in two longitudinal halves (12.1; 12.2), wherein the first half 12.1, is adapted to house the water level sensor cables (11.1) and the sensor body (11),

- a half-pipe (3.10), disposed in the second half (12.2) of the pipe (3.4) connected to the central wall (14) of the pipe (3.4), wherein the half-pipe 3.10 with a height inferior to the height of pipe

(3.4) and a narrower cross-section than second half (12.2) of the pipe (3.4),

- a half-pipe (7) inserted in the second half (12.2) of pipe (3.4) reaching limiter (3.4.2),

- a bearing floating platform (2) for the feeding of the bees, adapted to interchangeably fit the interior of said housing, comprising:

- a wreath (2.7) around its upper surface 2.3 adapted to prevent the water to leaking into the housing 3,

- a circular opening (2.6), with a diameter of at least 16mm larger than the diameter of pipe

(3.4), in its centre adapted to fit the pipe 3.4 of the housing 3,

- a number of longitudinal troughs (2.1; 2.2), disposed parallelly in series of two, around the perimeter of said floating platform,

- means of fixation for inner and outer troughs (2.1; 2.2), adapted to adjust each of the troughs (2. 1,2.2) height,

- combs (2.1.3) adapted to fit into the longitudinal groove of the troughs adapted to section said longitudinal groove into smaller cube-shaped grooves for the feeding of the bees,

- a protective cap (2.1.1; 2.2.2) along each the longitudinal troughs (2.1; 2.2), adapted to prevent impurities from falling on the drinking water

- means of providing sanitary water from housing (3) to the troughs (2.1; 2.2) of the feeding platform (2), comprising at least a pair of hoses (8) adapted to attach the openings on the bottom surface (3. 1) of the housing (3) and said inner (2.1) and outer (2.2) troughs, respectively

- optionally, a water reservoir (4) comprising at least one pair of valves adapted to control the water inlet and outlet openings, a transparent water level hose and means of connection to the water dispenser,

- at least a pair of hoses (8) adapted to connect the housing and the troughs - a protecting lid (9) with a circular opening in its centre adapted to protect the sanitary water from external impurities, and wherein the dispenser further comprises sensing means for detecting the water level of the water dispenser. Optionally, the water level detecting system may comprise a water level sensor. Optionally, the water level sensor 11 and sensor cables 11.1 may be provided into the first half 12.1 of the pipe 3.4.

As will be clear to one skilled in the art, the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments described herein, and a number of changes are possible which remain within the scope of the present invention.

Of course, the preferred embodiments shown above are combinable, in the different possible forms, being herein avoided the repetition all such combinations.