U.S. patent application number 10/157360 was filed with the patent office on 2002-10-03 for barrier against crawling arthropods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Lineguard, Inc.. Invention is credited to Roberts, Ernest H..
Application Number | 20020139061 10/157360 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26837833 |
Filed Date | 2002-10-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020139061 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Roberts, Ernest H. |
October 3, 2002 |
Barrier against crawling arthropods
Abstract
A barrier against arthropods crawling along a surface comprises
a soft pliable polymer collar portion adapted for tight and
substantially continuous receipt against a surface. A mounting
portion secures the collar to the surface and serves to preventing
relative motion between the collar and the surface. A generally
continuous flared skirt member extends from the collar and is
comprised of a soft pliable polymer having a arthropod-deterring
ingredient molded therein. The skirt defines an unobstructed access
opening opposite the collar. The opening is defined by an end of
the generally continuous skirt.
Inventors: |
Roberts, Ernest H.; (Elyria,
OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LAW OFFICES OF BRIAN S STEINBERGER
101 BREVARD AVENUE
COCOA
FL
32922
US
|
Assignee: |
Lineguard, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
26837833 |
Appl. No.: |
10/157360 |
Filed: |
May 28, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10157360 |
May 28, 2002 |
|
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09579251 |
May 25, 2000 |
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60140049 |
Jun 18, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/101 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01M 29/34 20130101;
A01M 1/20 20130101; A01G 13/105 20130101; A01M 2200/011
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/101 |
International
Class: |
E04B 001/72; A01K
003/00; E04H 009/16 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A device for interrupting a route of travel of crawling
arthropods, comprising: a soft pliable collar portion adapted for
receipt about a surface; a mounting portion for securing the collar
portion to the surface and preventing relative motion between the
collar and the surface; and a substantially continuous flared skirt
portion extending from the collar portion and comprised of a soft
pliable material and including an arthropod-deterring ingredient
molded therein, the skirt defining an unobstructed access opening
opposite the collar, said opening defined by an end of the
substantially continuous skirt.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein the soft pliable polymer from
which the collar and skirt are molded is a polyvinyl material.
3. The device of claim 2 wherein a slow release synthetic
pyrethroid is molded in the polyvinyl material.
4. The device of claim 3 wherein the slow release synthetic
pyrethroid is permethrin or other arthropod deterring
ingredient.
5. The device of claim 1 wherein a vapor head is created in an area
defined by the skirt.
6. The device of claim 1 further including a fastener for securing
the collar against the surface of the elongated structure received
axially therethrough.
7. The device of claim 1 wherein the polymer collar is adapted for
continuous receipt about the surface.
8. The device of claim 1 wherein the flared skirt extends from an
end of the collar portion.
9. The device of claim 1 wherein the collar is integral with the
flared skirt.
10. The device of claim 1 wherein the collar portion includes a
arthropod-deterring ingredient molded therein.
11. A barrier against arthropod crawling along a surface, the
barrier comprising: a soft pliable band having an
arthropod-deterring ingredient molded therein, the band adapted for
tight and substantially continuous receipt about the surface; a
mounting portion for securing the band to the surface and
preventing relative motion between the band and the surface; and a
fastener for fixing the band to the surface.
12. The barrier of claim 7 wherein the soft pliable band is
comprised of a soft polymeric material.
13. The barrier of claim 7 wherein the arthropod-deterring
ingredient is a slow release synthetic pyrethroid.
14. The barrier of claim 13 wherein the slow release synthetic
pyrethroid is permethrin.
15. The barrier of claim 7 further including a generally continuous
flared skirt member extending from the band and comprised of a soft
pliable material having a arthropod-deterring ingredient molded
therein, the skirt defining an unobstructed access opening opposite
the band, said opening defined by an end of the generally
continuous skirt.
16. The barrier of claim 15 wherein a vapor head is created in an
area defined by the skirt for impeding a route of travel of
crawling arthropod.
17. A device for protecting a botanical axis from crawling
arthropods, comprising: a soft pliable polymer collar portion
adapted for receipt about a botanical axis; and a flared skirt
portion extending from the collar and comprised of a soft pliable
polymer having a arthropod-deterring ingredient molded therein, the
skirt defining an unobstructed access opening opposite the collar,
said opening defined by an end of the flared skirt.
18. The device of claim 17, further comprising a mounting portion
for securing the collar to the surface of the botanical axis and
for preventing relative motion between the device and the botanical
axis.
19. The device of claim 18 further including a fastener for
securing the collar portion about the surface of the botanical
axis.
20. The device of claim 17 wherein the collar and skirt portions
are molded from a polyvinyl material in which is molded a slow
release synthetic pyrethroid.
21. The device of claim 20 wherein the slow release synthetic
pyrethroid is permethrin.
22. The device of claim 17 wherein a vapor head is created in an
area defined by the skirt to deter crawling arthropods.
23. The device of claim 17 wherein the polymer collar is adapted to
provide substantially continuous receipt about the botanical
axis.
24. The device of claim 17 wherein the polymer collar is comprised
of a flexible polymer expandable to allow for botanical axis
growth.
25. The device of claim 17 wherein the flared skirt is
substantially continuous about the surface.
26. The device of claim 17 wherein the flared skirt extends from an
end of the collar portion.
27. The device of claim 17 wherein the collar is integral with the
flared skirt.
28. The device of claim 17 wherein the collar portion includes a
arthropod-deterring ingredient molded therein.
29. A method for interrupting a route of travel of crawling
arthropods along a slender object comprising the steps of:
providing a soft pliable polymer collar; extending a flared skirt
from the collar, the skirt including an arthropod-deterring
ingredient molded therein; wrapping the collar having first and
second ends about an outer perimeter of the slender object;
fastening the collar in place; directing an open end of the skirt
toward a source of crawling arthropods; producing a vapor head
within a space defined by the skirt; and interrupting the route of
travel of crawling arthropods along the slender object.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein the slender object comprises a
botanical axis.
31. The method of claim 29, including the additional step of
varying an inner periphery of the collar commensurate with an ambit
of the slender object.
32. The method of claim 31, comprising the step of stretching the
polymer to vary the inner periphery.
33. The method of claim 31, wherein the inner periphery is varied
by molding.
34. The method of claim 29, including the additional step of
contacting a first end of the collar with a second end of the
collar to securely fix the collar to the slender object.
35. The method of claim 31 wherein the inner periphery is varied by
adjusting the contact of the first end of the collar with the
second end of the collar.
36. A method for protecting a botanical axis from crawling
arthropods, comprising the steps of: providing a soft pliable
polymer collar having emerging in a trumpet portion, said collar
and trumpet portion including a arthropod-deterring component
molded therein; positioning the collar about an outer perimeter of
the botanical axis to form a continuous collar and at least a
substantially continuous trumpet portion; directing an open end of
the trumpet portion toward a source of crawling arthropods;
producing a vapor head within a space defined by the trumpet
portion; and interrupting a route of travel of crawling arthropods
along the botanical axis.
37. A device for interrupting a route of travel of crawling
arthropods, comprising: a soft pliable collar adapted for receipt
along a surface; a mounting portion for securing the collar portion
to the surface and preventing relative motion between the collar
and the surface; and a substantially continuous flared skirt
portion extending from the collar portion and holding an
arthropod-deterring ingredient, the skirt defining an unobstructed
access opening opposite the collar defined by an end of the
substantially continuous skirt.
38. The device of claim 37 wherein the skirt portion is comprised
of a pliable material.
39. The device of claim 37 wherein the skirt portion is comprised
of a pliable material into which an active arthropod-deterring
ingredient is molded.
40. The device of claim 37 wherein the arthropod-deterring
ingredient is held in a disk or cartridge inserted beneath the
skirt.
41. The device of claim 37 wherein the arthropod-deterring
ingredient is applied to a surface of the skirt portion.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Application Serial No. 60/140,049, filed Jun. 18, 1999.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to pest management and
more particularly to controlling a route of travel of crawling
vermin, particularly crawling arthropods (including crawling
insects) by interrupting their route of travel. The present
invention provides an ecological approach to controlling crawling
arthropods. It promotes environmentally-sound methods that employ
point source (e.g., point of entry) physical and biological
controls versus sole reliance on the atomizing, spraying and
broadcasting of chemicals to keep crawling pest populations at
tolerable levels. The U.S. Government has mandated a 50% reduction
in the use of sprayed and broadcasted chemicals by the year
2000.
[0003] Crawling insect arthropods can cause serious damage in the
agricultural industry as well as in non-agricultural environments.
Further, crawling vermin can bite and/or cause the spread of
disease among humans and animals. It is important to devise a
device and method for impeding their route of travel.
[0004] For example, the infestation of crawling insect vermin can
cause severe economic loss in citrus and other fruit and nut trees,
nursery stock and ornamentals. The red imported fire ants (RIFA) in
particular are responsible for damage and death of young citrus
trees in the major U.S. citrus growing regions. RIFA feed on bark
and cambium to obtain sap, girdling and often killing trees. Fire
ants and other ants also tend a number of homopteran insects which
can act as vectors for plant diseases. They will also frequently
attack beneficial biocontrol organisms that prey on these
homopteran insects. Fire ants have been known to frequent citrus
groves, destroying young citrus trees and delaying production of
fruit on those trees. With regard to more mature or fruit bearing
citrus, RIFA typically build mounds at the base of these trees.
Although their girdling activities do not kill the tree, they can
cause "top die-back" resulting in a 15 to 20 percent yield loss.
Fire ants feeding on blossoms, leaves and fruits have caused up to
90 percent yield loss in some areas. Fire ants are aggressive and
inflict a painful sting, creating a hazard for persons working on
the trees in the immediate area. In addition, RIFA are known to
clog irrigation microjets. They also spread diseases to various
citrus trees and fruits.
[0005] Prior methods for controlling RIFA and other crawling vermin
include Reese Wraps which are insulating treewraps that contain a
slow release packet of Diazinon. This method protects the young
tree by killing any insect that comes into contact with it.
However, the expense of this method is often prohibitive;
therefore, Reese Wraps are not widely used.
[0006] The most prevalent method currently used for large-scale
control of RIFA mounds in producing citrus groves in Florida and
Texas is the EPA-registered pesticide Lorsban. This organophosphate
insecticide kills exposed foraging ants on contact. Lorsban is
dispersed by providing a uniform coverage throughout the grove.
Although the various methods for applying Lorsban have reduced the
foraging ant activity, the broadcasting method is contrary to
federal mandates to reduce overall proliferation of pesticides in
the environment. Random application of chemicals via spraying and
broadcasting methods infiltrate the groundwater and provide other
undesirable effects.
[0007] Another product, Logic, is registered for RIFA control on
non-bearing citrus trees. Like Lorsban, Logic is applied by the
broadcasting method. This product is an insect growth regulator,
acting primarily on the ant queen. The method is very
expensive.
[0008] In addition to RIFA and other types of ants, other crawling
insects produce problems in groves. These include, but are not
limited, to eastern Lubber grasshopper, Asian cockroaches, Gypsy
Moths and others, including scales, pests, spider mites, aphids,
ants, thrips and cutworms.
[0009] Many of the prior art techniques for addressing crawling
arthropods are not only expensive but the products must be
readdressed and reapplied quite frequently. There is a need in the
industry for developing a means or device for interrupting a route
of travel of crawling insect arthropods and other crawling pests at
point source or point of entry that is simple to use,
uncomplicated, long lasting and relatively inexpensive. It is
further desirable that such device be able to control crawling
vermin on a steady, non-haphazard basis.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In accordance with the present invention there is provided a
novel barrier against arthropods or other vermin crawling along a
surface.
[0011] In accordance with a more limited aspect of the invention, a
device for interrupting a route of travel of crawling arthropods is
comprised of a soft pliable polymer, or other acceptable pliable
material, collar portion adapted for receipt about a surface. A
mounting portion secures the collar portion to the surface and
prevents relative motion between the collar and the surface. A
substantially continuous flared skirt portion extends from the
collar portion and comprises a soft pliable polymer, or other
acceptable pliable material, having an arthropod-deterring
ingredient molded therein. Alternatively, the arthropod deterring
ingredient can be applied to a surface of the skirt portion or to a
removable disk or cartridge adapted for insertion beneath the skirt
portion. The skirt defines an unobstructed access opening opposite
the collar. The opening is defined by an end of the substantially
continuous skirt.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a soft
pliable polymer (or other soft, pliable or rigid material) band has
a arthropod-deterring ingredient molded therein. The band is
adapted for tight and substantially continuous receipt about a
surface. A mounting portion secures the band to the surface and
prevents relative motion between the band and the surface. The band
is fixed in place by a fastener.
[0013] In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a
device for protecting a botanical axis from crawling arthropods
comprises a soft pliable collar portion adapted for receipt about
the botanical axis. A flared skirt portion extends from the collar.
The skirt portion is comprised of a soft pliable material having an
arthropod-deterring ingredient disposed or molded therein. An
unobstructed access opening is defined by an end of the flared
skirt opposite the collar.
[0014] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention,
there is provided a method for interrupting a route of travel of
crawling arthropods along a slender object. A soft pliable polymer
is provided, with a flared skirt extending therefrom. An
arthropod-deterring ingredient is molded in the skirt. The collar
is wrapped about an outer perimeter of the slender object and
fastened into place. An open end of the skirt is directed toward
the source of the crawling arthropods. A vapor head, which creates
a deterring atmosphere, is produced within the space defined by the
skirt and deters and interrupts the crawling arthropods' route of
travel.
[0015] A principal advantage of the invention is that only a
minimum amount of the arthropod-deterring ingredient, which is
preferably impregnated into (or in the alternative applied to) an
expandable soft polymeric material from which at least the skirt
portion is molded, is required.
[0016] Another advantage of the invention is the ability for the
protective barrier against insects to conform to the outer
configuration of a given surface. The device can be molded and
shaped for various preferred sizes and virtually any shape-round,
square, rectangular, angular, or a combination of shapes.
[0017] Yet another advantage of the invention resides in the
ability of the device to stretch when applied to a structure to
make the fit secure and snug and to firmly hold the device in
place. The stretchability also allows for stretchability during
growth of a botanical axis.
[0018] Another advantage of the invention resides in the ability of
ends of the collar portion to overlap to allow for fit adjustment
and growth of an underlying botanical axis.
[0019] Yet another advantage of the invention resides in the
device's durability and usefulness in all weather conditions
without dissipation of the active material. The active ingredient
dissipates on a slow release basis regardless of the weather.
[0020] Yet another advantage of the present invention is its
ability to deter crawling insects and impede their route of travel.
The device is non-directional and can be applied to any surface in
any direction (e.g. upward, downward, horizontally, diagonally).
Furthermore, it is portable can be moved from structure to
structure, place to place without destroying or interrupting the
effect of the active ingredient.
[0021] The barrier of the present invention is long lasting, and
provides an economical alternative to prior art methods for
controlling crawling insect arthropod in specific areas at pont
source (not flying insects). The device can be applied in the
agricultural area for use on a variety of botanical axes such as on
trees, limbs, branches, and other growing plants and shrubs. It can
also be used to prevent arthropods from crawling into homes, onto
shelving, boats, and virtually along any surface which provides a
route of travel for crawling pests. The barrier is designed so that
humans face minimal contact with the arthropod-deterring
ingredient, be it a pesticide, insecticide, repellant, or natural
substance. Preferably, the arthropod-deterring material is safe if
humans come into contact with it. Is also safe for use in
agriculture. A cover or vinyl shield can be employed.
[0022] Still other advantages and benefits of the invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and
understanding of the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and
arrangements of parts, a preferred embodiment which will be
described in detail in the specification and illustrated in the
accompanying drawings which form a part hereof.
[0024] FIG. 1 shows a crawling arthropod-deterring device in its
relaxed, open position prior to installation about an elongated
structure.
[0025] FIG. 2 depicts the arthropod-deterring device of FIG. 1 in
its installed position about a structure.
[0026] FIG. 3 set forth a broken away segment of a collar portion
of a barrier of FIG. 1 showing notches or grooves on an inner
surface thereof.
[0027] FIG. 4 displays an alternative embodiment of a crawling
arthropod barrier configured for receipt around the surface of a
structure, the barrier shown in its opened position;
[0028] FIG. 5 shows the barrier of FIG. 4 in its closed
position;
[0029] FIG. 6 discloses a barrier band in its opened position;
[0030] FIG. 7 shows the barrier band of FIG. 6 in its closed
position about a tree surface;
[0031] FIG. 8 is directed to an alternative embodiment arthropod
barrier adapted for receipt along any surface; and
[0032] FIG. 9 is a side view of the arthropod barrier of FIG.
8.
[0033] FIG. 10 is a portion of a barrier device showing a cover,
broken away in part.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0034] Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for
purposes of illustrating the preferred embodiment of the invention
only and not for purposes of limiting same, the FIGURES show a
barrier against arthropods crawling along a surface.
[0035] Directing attention first to FIG. 1, a device 10 for
interrupting a route of travel of crawling arthropods is shown. The
device comprises a collar portion 14 and a flared skirt or trumpet
portion 18. A mounting portion 22 extends from a first end 24 of
the collar portion. The mounting portion is adapted to overlap with
a second end 26 of the collar portion when the device is installed
over an elongated object. It is, however, within the scope of the
invention for the mounting portion to simply abut with the second
end of the collar portion, or to be situated closely proximate the
second end. The skirt portion 18 is preferably molded integrally
with the collar portion. It is fully within the scope of this
invention, however, that the skirt portion can be manufactured
separately from the collar portion from the same or different
materials.
[0036] Preferably, the collar portion and skirt portion are
comprised of a soft, pliable polymer having a crawling
arthropod-deterring ingredient molded therein. However, any
suitable pliable material can be used.
[0037] The soft-pliable polymer, preferably a soft polyvinyl
material, is desirable for its pliability. Other acceptable
polymeric materials can be used as well. The soft polymer can
conform to the shape of the underlying structure which it is
protecting, be it a tree, branch, or other botanical axis, a table
leg, a cable conduit, or even a flat or irregular surface when the
barrier is conformed in such a configuration. An insecticide,
pesticide, repellant or other arthropod-deterring ingredient is
molded directly in the polyvinyl material to provide a constant
time release emission of vapor from the ingredient. The level of
pesticide, insecticide, repellant or other arthropod-deterring
ingredient contained in the polymer is sufficiently low and there
is no more than minimal contact with human skin such as during
installation, removal, adjustments, or the like. However, there is
sufficient amount of insecticide within the material to cause an
instantaneous repelling or even destruction of the crawling vermin
with which it comes in contact. Furthermore, a vapor head produced
by the active material is significant enough to deter or repel many
crawling arthropods.
[0038] As will be more fully discussed below, the barrier can
include a plastic outer layer or cover to eliminate contact of the
active material with humans. The plastic outer layer or shell would
possibly be preferred by homeowners, while professional or
commercial users may be less inclined to opt for the shield. Under
some circumstances, users can opt for a barrier that does not have
the outer cover. The cover can be rigid or pliable, but does not
contain any active ingredients (no pesticides or other arthropod
repellants).
[0039] The barrier provides for a point-source (point of entry)
protective barrier in the form of a polyvinyl collar or shield
which is impregnated with a synthetic or natural pyrethroid,
pesticide or repellant. One example of a pesticide that can be used
is the slow-release synthetic pesticide known as permethrin. This
is the preferred embodiment. The pesticides or repellants useful in
the barrier are in no way limited to permethrin. Permethrin is
useful in this application because of its long history of
demonstrated safety in pest management. Other useful pyrethroids,
pesticides, insecticides, or other active arthropod deterring
ingredients can be used.
[0040] The barrier is made to be adjustable and effective for a
long duration. This enables a single collar/skirt barrier to be
used for a substantial amount of time precluding the need to
remove, reinstall and/or replace the device on a seasonal basis.
The barrier is adjustable to allow for trunk growth in the event it
is used on trees. If the barrier is properly placed near the base
of a tree or shrub, it completely excludes crawling insects at
point-source. The active ingredient affects only the target insect
coming into contact with the guard. Furthermore, because the
insecticide (e.g., permethrin) is impregnated in the soft polyvinyl
embodiment of the device, there is a minimal exposure of the
pesticide to the soil, tree or shrub, beneficial insects, and the
persons handling the device.
[0041] The collar portion of the device fits tightly around an
elongated structure 28 as shown in FIG. 2. The underlying structure
need not be specifically elongated as it can be short, squat, or
flat. The device is designed to fit about an outer perimeter of a
structure, regardless of the perimeter's shape, size, or axial or
radial irregularity. The underlying structure can be a tree, leg,
pole, pillar, botanical axis, rope, shaft, or virtually any slender
object where arthropods crawl. In the case of a surface or tree,
the device is generally installed along the base of the tree or
other structure, preferably one to two inches above the ground
level. This is evident in FIG. 2. Of course, it can be placed
anywhere along the length of the underlying structure.
[0042] With attention still focused on FIG. 2, it will be noted
that the mounting portion 22 has overlapped with a second end 26 of
the collar portion 14. It is within the scope of the invention that
the mounting portion simply abut or be closely proximate the second
end of the collar portion. The skirt portion has likewise become
substantially continuous, although in some instances it is
foreseeable that the skirt will be slightly split at the seam
segment 30. A fastener element fixes the collar securely to the
structure 28. The fastener may comprise hook and loop type
fasteners which may be mounted on the underside of the mounting
portion and on the second end of the collar. Other fasteners may
include snaps or buttons. Preferably, a fastener may include a
clamp, such as a spring or C-clamp shown at 34 in FIG. 2. The
C-clamp with spring action closes tightly around the collar portion
after it has been wrapped about the structure 28. It is also
foreseeable to use a plastic tie band, or even wire or other
fastening or adhering device for holding the barrier in place.
[0043] As stated, an arthropod-deterring ingredient is preferably
molded into the soft polyvinyl material from which the barrier is
molded. It is also foreseeable that the arthropod-deterring
ingredient is layered on the underside of the skirt or otherwise
inserted via a cartridge or similar appliance beneath the skirt.
Forseeably, the active ingredient can be molded in a disk that is
inserted beneath the skirt. In any event, the active or
arthropod-deterring ingredient develops a vapor head within the
space 36 defined by the skirt interior to deter crawling arthropods
from continuing on their route of travel. The open end of the skirt
is opposite the collar and directed toward a point source 38 from
which arthropods crawl. As the arthropods reach the barrier device,
the vapor head developed by the active ingredient kills, repels, or
otherwise deters the crawling arthropod from continuing along its
path.
[0044] FIG. 3 shows a portion of the collar portion broken away to
show the interior wall 40 thereof. As will be noted, notches or
ridges 44 are molded into the underside of the collar to produce a
friction fit between the underlying structure 28 (see FIG. 2) and
the collar. The notches are not necessary but do provide additional
secure fit of the device on the elongated structure.
[0045] FIGS. 4 and 5 show alternative embodiment of the present
invention. As will be noted, the collar and skirt portion can be
varied from the open position (FIG. 4) to the closed position (FIG.
5) by employing various known or state of the art fasteners such
as, by way of example, button closures 48 which fit in through
mating openings 52 situated opposite therefrom. Several buttons and
openings are shown to accommodate for size of the underlying
surface. Virtually any other means for closing the collar and skirt
54 upon itself can be used, including clasps, hook and loop type
fasteners (Velcro.RTM.), snaps, adhesives, zippers, tape, staples,
or any other means useful for adhering or joining the two ends
together. An end 55 of the skirt which opposes the collar 53
defines an access opening into the bell region defined by the
skirt. Insects or other vermin which crawl along the ground 58 and
up a surface of a tree 62 will be repelled or possibly even killed
by a vapor head which arises within the region defined by the
skirt.
[0046] Turning now to FIG. 6, an other alternative embodiment
barrier is shown. FIG. 7 shows the barrier of FIG. 6 in closed
position about a tree trunk. Like the barrier shown in FIG. 4, the
barrier of FIGS. 6 and 7 can be fastened using fasteners such as,
for example, buttons 48 designed for joining with opposing holes
52. The multiple buttons and holes allow for an adjustable fit
about the base of a trunk as the tree grows. A similar type of
collar or shield can be employed on a variety of other structures
including table legs, conduit, boat cable, etc., or any structure
that could act as a path for crawling insects. As crawling vermin
insects crawl along a given structure (shown in FIG. 7 as a tree),
they must come into contact with the band, shield or collar 53. The
band, shield or collar 53 is comprised of a soft polymeric
material, preferably a polyvinyl material, having an insecticide
impregnated therein. As the crawling pest comes into contact with
the collar, the insecticide either repels or even kills the
crawling arthropod, thereby interrupting the route of travel of the
crawling arthropod.
[0047] With attention at FIGS. 8 and 9, another alternative
embodiment of a barrier for interrupting a route of travel of
arthropod is disclosed. The barrier comprises a collar portion 70
and skirt portion 74. Both the collar and skirt are comprised of a
soft polymeric or other pliable material with an insecticide
impregnated therein during the molding operation. It is fully
foreseeable that only the skirt portion be impregnated with the
insecticide. The active ingredient can also be inserted on a
surface of the skirt or via a removable cartridge. The barrier of
FIGS. 8 and 9 is continuous and can be trimmed to provide a
continuous fit along any surface along which arthropod crawl. FIGS.
8 and 9 show by way of example the barrier to be fixed or attached
to a flat surface or wall 78 using a fastening device 82 for means
of attaching one surface to another. Of course it is fully within
the scope of the present invention that the collar portion can be
fixed to the surface by any practicable means including nails,
staples, glue, tape, hooks, or any other fastener or adhering
method known to those skilled in the art for joining two physical
elements. The material from which the barrier is made is pliable.
Therefore, the barrier can conform to an irregular shaped surface
and can travel around corners or be trimmed to fit a particular
configuration. A vapor barrier is present in the space 83 between
the wall or surface 78 and the skirt 84. A pest crawling into this
opening between the skirt and wall would encounter a vapor head
barrier caused by the insecticide which would either kill or repel
the pest downward and thereby impede its route of travel along the
wall 78. Even if debris and dust accumulate on the skirt of FIGS. 8
and 9, or even on the skirt of FIGS. 1-5, the internal surface of
the skirt remains clean and the pesticide or pest-repelling
ingredient molded in the barrier remains active.
[0048] It is fully foreseeable that a strip of molded material with
an insecticide molded therein be affixed to a surface without the
need of a skirt. For example, a skirt may not be needed in closed
or enclosed environments. In such an instance, a arthropod crawling
upward along a surface would be killed or repelled based on the
insecticide in the polyvinyl material which comprises the
strip.
[0049] The barrier of the present invention, in its various
embodiments, may be used in residential or commercial applications,
indoors or outdoors. It is useful in kitchen environments,
hospitals, in tree groves, and virtually anywhere that crawling
insects or arthropods need to be stopped or deterred.
[0050] Any of the above-described barrier embodiments, or those
contemplated by this invention, may include a cover 90. This is
shown by way of example in FIG. 10. The cover is made of an inert
material such as vinyl or other plastic. There is no pesticide
impregnated in the cover, although it is possible that natural pest
deterring ingredients safe for human handling (e.g. such as cayenne
pepper or even petroleum jelly) could be included in or on the
cover. The cover can conform to the outer shape of the barrier, or
it may be spaced from the barrier, such as by way of example, in
the form of an awning or umbrella over the barrier. Preferably, the
barrier is form fit to the cover, but it could be mounted with
fasteners or adhesives or other means. The cover serves to reduce
or eliminate human contact with the active barrier material. It
also acts as a protection against weather and debris. The cover, or
a cover in an alternative configuration, could be used on any of
the embodiments described herein or on embodiments contemplated by
this invention. With regard to those embodiments that disclose a
skirt, the barrier would preferably extend below the lip of the
cover such that it is exposed in certain situations.
[0051] The invention has been described with reference to the
preferred embodiment. Obviously modifications and alterations will
occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this
specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and
alterations in so far as they come within the scope of the appended
claims or the equivalent thereof.
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