U.S. patent application number 12/302025 was filed with the patent office on 2010-09-16 for devices for trapping insects.
This patent application is currently assigned to Westham Ltd.. Invention is credited to Gunter Muller, Yosef Schlein, Miri Simchoni-Barak.
Application Number | 20100229459 12/302025 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38723700 |
Filed Date | 2010-09-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100229459 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Simchoni-Barak; Miri ; et
al. |
September 16, 2010 |
DEVICES FOR TRAPPING INSECTS
Abstract
The present invention discloses trapping devices for biting
(e.g. mosquitoes, sand flies, black flies, and biting midges) and
nuisance flies (e.g. houseflies, filth flies, and fruit flies). The
outdoor solution for biting flies includes a solar panel, a
housing, a bag, and a ventilator located in the housing. The
ventilator creates a capture zone having an airflow toward the bag.
A CO2 generator, chemical attractants, a heat source, and a UV
light attract mosquitoes to the capture zone. The chemical
attractants are released continuously, the CO2 is released in
pulses, and the ventilator and UV are operated in independent
programmable intervals. The device is efficient in energy
consumption and CO2 production. Other trapping devices are
disclosed having a combination of insect-attracting mechanisms
including a ventilator. Novel insect zappers including a ventilator
are disclosed as well. Indoor and outdoor solutions for insects
including biting and nuisance flies.
Inventors: |
Simchoni-Barak; Miri;
(Iftach, IL) ; Schlein; Yosef; (Jerusalem, IL)
; Muller; Gunter; (Freising, DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DR. MARK M. FRIEDMAN;C/O BILL POLKINGHORN - DISCOVERY DISPATCH
9003 FLORIN WAY
UPPER MARLBORO
MD
20772
US
|
Assignee: |
Westham Ltd.
Tel Aviv
IL
|
Family ID: |
38723700 |
Appl. No.: |
12/302025 |
Filed: |
May 24, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
May 24, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IL07/00631 |
371 Date: |
November 23, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60747820 |
May 22, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
43/112 ;
43/113 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01N 31/02 20130101;
A01N 37/44 20130101; A01M 1/023 20130101; A01M 1/08 20130101; A01N
37/36 20130101; A01N 35/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
43/112 ;
43/113 |
International
Class: |
A01M 1/10 20060101
A01M001/10; A01M 1/04 20060101 A01M001/04; A01M 1/22 20060101
A01M001/22 |
Claims
1. An insect-trapping device for catching biting and nuisance
flies, the device comprising: (a) at least two heat-emitting
elements for attracting insects; (b) a light-emitting element,
positioned below said heat-emitting element in the trap, for
disorienting sensory perceptions of said insects; (c) a transparent
grill for covering said light-emitting element; (d) an
attractant-emitting element configured to emit at least one
attractant in a vicinity of the trap, said attractant-emitting
element positioned below said heat-emitting element in the device;
(e) a collection compartment, positioned below said ventilator, for
desiccating and storing trapped insects; (f) a ventilator,
positioned below said light-emitting element in the device,
configured: (i) to create an airflow through the device; (ii) to
disperse said at least one attractant; and (iii) to draw in
attracted insects into said collection compartment; and (g) a
device housing for housing said at least two heat-emitting
elements, said light-emitting element, said transparent grill, said
attractant-emitting element, said collection compartment, and said
ventilator; wherein said at least two heat-emitting elements, said
light-emitting element, said transparent grill, said
attractant-emitting element, and said ventilator are operative to
synergistically effect an attraction of said insects into the
device.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein said housing is configured to be
a visual attractant for said insects using alternating dark and
light color-patterns on a three-dimensional shape.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein said at least two heat-emitting
elements includes a heating film, configured to produce a heating
pattern having at least two separated parallel strips, covered by a
dark sheath.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein said at least two heat-emitting
elements are configured to be combined to form a concave surface
that is tilted in an angle of 20-70.degree. toward a base of the
device, said surface having at least one center-portion slit
through which said insects are drawn into the trap.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein said attractant-emitting element
is configured to store and emit different types of said at least
one attractant, wherein said types are at least one type selected
from the group consisting of: a liquid form, a dry solid form, a
moist solid form, an embedded form, a cartridge form, a
slow-release form, and wherein said attractant-emitting element is
configured to have an adjustable airflow regulator adapted to
select a release rate and a dispersion rate of said at least one
attractant.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein said light-emitting element
includes an ultraviolet light source, having an emission wavelength
of 280-320 nm, wherein said light source is centered in a gap
between said at least two heat-emitting elements.
7. The device of claim 1, wherein said transparent grill is
transparent to UV light, and is configured to allow said light to
be directed toward at least two heat-emitting elements.
8. An insect-zapping device for catching biting and nuisance flies,
the device comprising: (a) a light-emitting element for attracting
and disorienting insects; (b) a zapper base for supporting said
light-emitting element; and (c) an electric grid for zapping said
insects, said electric grid oriented parallel to said zapper base
and positioned below said light-emitting element.
9. The device of claim 8, the device further comprising: (d) a
ventilator for drawing in attracted insects toward said electric
grid.
10. The device of claim 9, wherein said electric grid is configured
to be powered when said ventilator is being powered.
11. The device of claim 9, the device further comprising: (e) a
funnel for causing said attracted insects to fall toward said
electric grid.
12. The device of claim 9, the device further comprising: (e) a
metal mesh for shielding electric and magnetic fields generated by
said electric grid.
13. The device of claim 9, the device further comprising: (e) a
collection compartment for storing zapped insects.
14. The device of claim 11, the device further comprising: (f) a
metal mesh for shielding electric and magnetic fields generated by
said electric grid, and for preventing human contact with said
electric grid.
15. The device of claim 9, the device further comprising: (e) at
least one panel for causing said attracted insects to fall toward
said electric grid.
16. The device of claim 14, wherein said at least one panel is
configured to be heated and to have a dark color.
17. An insect-trapping device for catching biting flies, the device
comprising: (a) a cover having an integrated solar panel and
control unit; (b) a collection compartment, positioned below said
cover, for storing trapped insects; (c) a light-emitting element,
positioned below said collection compartment, for disorienting
sensory perceptions of attracted insects by emitting light; (d) a
ventilator, having apertures on top and bottom, configured: (i) to
create an airflow through the device; (ii) to push said attracted
insects from above toward said collection compartment; and (iii) to
pull said attracted insects from below toward said collection
compartment; and (e) an emitter ring, having an attractant chamber
and a CO.sub.2 generator, positioned in close contact to said
ventilator, said emitter ring for releasing CO.sub.2 and at least
one attractant into a vicinity of the device; (f) a heat-emitting
element, positioned in close contact to said emitter ring, for
heating said CO.sub.2.
18. The device of claim 17, wherein said cover is configured to be
tilted in to a desired angle for optimizing utilization of
sunlight.
19. The device of claim 17, wherein said cover has a bottom
alignment rim for diverting about 80% of said airflow, coming from
said ventilator and attractant chamber, towards an upper portion of
the device.
20. The device of claim 17, wherein said control unit has different
pre-programmed operational modes including at least one mode
selected from the group consisting of: an energy-saving mode,
regular mode, short-term mode, long-term mode, a high-performance
mode, a day mode, a night mode, and a day/night mode.
21. The device of claim 17, wherein said collection compartment
includes an air baffle, having an internal labyrinth/valve system,
for enabling said attracted insects to enter said collection
compartment while said ventilator is operational, and for
preventing said trapped insects from emerging from said collection
compartment while said ventilator is not operational.
22. The device of claim 17, the device further comprising: (g) an
airflow director for directing said airflow into said collection
compartment.
23. The device of claim 17, wherein said light-emitting element is
configured to produce light having an emission wavelength of
280-320 nm.
24. The device of claim 17, wherein said light-emitting element is
shielded by a reflector for redirecting light from said
light-emitting element toward a lower portion of the device in
order to reduce an attraction of non-target insects.
25. The device of claim 17, wherein said light-emitting element,
said heat-emitting element, said ventilator, said CO.sub.2
generator, and said attractant chamber are each configured to
synchronously operate according to independent on/off duty cycles.
Description
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to insect-trapping devices for
attracting and trapping biting flies (e.g. mosquitoes, sand flies,
and biting midges) and nuisance flies (e.g. house flies, filth
flies, and fruit flies).
[0002] Biting flies and nuisance flies are major pests because of
their troublesome biting behavior, and the general irritation they
cause. Furthermore, some species are carriers of various human and
animal diseases. Current control methods for these flies include:
source reduction by removal and/or modification of breeding
habitats, the use of pesticides to reduce larval and adult
populations, and removing adults by trapping devices and toxic bait
stations.
[0003] There are numerous specialized traps in the prior art
available to attract and kill all kind of insects; nevertheless, no
trap in the prior art has been shown to be equally good at
eliminating biting flies and nuisance flies. Typically, traps have
a combination of attracting features (e.g. optical parameters,
heat, CO.sub.2, and chemical odors) and catching/killing features
(e.g. suction, sticky paper, electric grids, and pesticides). Apart
from some simple sticky traps, all insect traps depend on external
energy sources. Small existing traps using solar power have not
proven to be effective at catching and controlling mosquitoes.
Energy for the various components of conventional traps (e.g. light
sources, suction, and heat) is either provided by batteries, an
electrical-outlet connection, or combustion.
[0004] The most important long-distance attracting feature is
CO.sub.2, produced in conventional traps by combustion, release of
CO.sub.2 from bottles, chemical reactions, and/or catalytic
processes. Some of the major problems in the designs of prior-art
traps, especially large outdoor traps, include the energy source,
the airflow, the air turbulence, and the availability of CO.sub.2.
Specifically, the problems, associated with existing traps based on
conventional features, include the following: [0005] (1) electric
cords create potential obstacles that can lead to accidents (e.g.
tripping, cutting, and disconnecting) besides the energy costs
associated with continuous usage; [0006] (2) batteries need to be
frequently recharged or changed, adding to the indirect costs (e.g.
replacement costs, environmental disposal costs, and service time);
[0007] (3) combustion sources (as a source of CO.sub.2) pose a
potential fire and explosion hazard, and need to be frequently
changed, adding to the indirect costs (e.g. replacement costs,
environmental disposal costs, CO.sub.2 release, and service time);
[0008] (4) chemical reactions (as a source of CO.sub.2) need to be
frequently replenished, adding to the indirect costs (e.g.
replacement costs, chemical containment/spill prevention,
environmental disposal costs, and service time); and [0009] (5)
catalytic processes (as a source of CO.sub.2) are limited to
producing only small amounts of CO.sub.2 using state-of-the-art
titanium technology.
[0010] Traps dependent on propane tanks, carbon dioxide tanks, or
electricity make the trap more difficult to install and use.
Furthermore, carbon dioxide tanks are not readily available to the
average consumer.
[0011] Most small and large indoor and outdoor mosquito traps
operate using a source of suction (e.g. a ventilator). The
resulting air turbulence often repels small insects, especially
blood-sucking flies. So-called bug zappers are effective at killing
large fast-flying insects, but small slow-flying insects (e.g.
biting flies and most nuisance flies) are repelled by the fields
generated by the electric grid.
[0012] Examples of trapping methods are: EP1477061 discloses an
apparatus having a body carrying an insect-collecting bag
impregnated with an insecticide and connected to a suction inlet,
the suction action being effected through the inside of the
apparatus by means of a motor-driven unit, the body of the
apparatus supporting at the top a dome carrying a series of
high-luminosity LEDs and a chemical-action attraction support,
capable of attracting the insects toward the entrance inlet
subjected to the suction action for their collection in the inner
bag with insecticidal effect. FR2851721 discloses a portable device
for destruction of biting/flying insects that uses a
battery-powered electric motor with a flexible cutter line attached
to a rotor.
[0013] It would be desirable to have more effective insect-trapping
devices for attracting and trapping mosquitoes and other
blood-sucking flying insects.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] It is the purpose of the present invention to provide
insect-trapping devices for attracting and trapping mosquitoes and
other blood-sucking flying insects that improve on the prior art.
Specifically, insect-trapping devices utilizing: shape and color
patterns as a visual target; heat, CO.sub.2, and chemical
attractants to attract biting and nuisance flies toward the device;
UV light to knock out the flies' orientation; and improved suction
and shielded electric grids to eliminate the flies from the
vicinity.
[0015] The present invention discloses insect-trapping devices
having several configurations. Some preferred embodiments of the
present invention include an item of electrical/electronic
equipment for eliminating, by means of attraction and suction, any
type of insect, especially dipterous insects (e.g. flies and
mosquitoes). Preferred embodiments of the present invention include
an apparatus for outdoor use and an apparatus for indoor use. Such
indoor use includes homes, hotels, hospitals, food outlets, and
more generally the interior and exterior of any space where it is
desired to remove insects in the space. To attract the insects, two
or more complementary senses (e.g. smell, sight, and taste) are
used.
[0016] According to the present invention there is provided a
system for attracting and catching insects, especially biting flies
and nuisance flies. The system features improved attracting and
catching capability, and attractant dissipation. The combination of
the features mentioned is important as there are numerous known
parameters which are synergistic in attracting and catching biting
flies and nuisance flies.
[0017] Therefore, according to the present invention, there is
provided for the first time an insect-trapping device for catching
biting and nuisance flies, the device including: (a) at least two
heat-emitting elements for attracting insects; (b) a light-emitting
element, positioned below the heat-emitting element in the trap,
for disorienting sensory perceptions of the insects; (c) a
transparent grill for covering the light-emitting element; (d) an
attractant-emitting element configured to emit at least one
attractant in a vicinity of the trap, the attractant-emitting
element positioned below the heat-emitting element in the device;
(e) a collection compartment, positioned below the ventilator, for
desiccating and storing trapped insects; (f) a ventilator,
positioned below the light-emitting element in the device,
configured: (i) to create an airflow through the device; (ii) to
disperse at least one attractant; and (iii) to draw in attracted
insects into the collection compartment; and (g) a device housing
for housing at least two heat-emitting elements, the light-emitting
element, the transparent grill, the attractant-emitting element,
the collection compartment, and the ventilator; wherein at least
two heat-emitting elements, the light-emitting element, the
transparent grill, the attractant-emitting element, and the
ventilator are operative to synergistically effect an attraction of
the insects into the device.
[0018] Preferably, the housing is configured to be a visual
attractant for the insects using alternating dark and light
color-patterns on a three-dimensional shape.
[0019] Preferably, at least two heat-emitting elements includes a
heating film, configured to produce a heating pattern having at
least two separated parallel strips, covered by a dark sheath.
[0020] Preferably, at least two heat-emitting elements are
configured to be combined to form a concave surface that is tilted
in an angle of 20-70.degree. toward a base of the device, the
surface having at least one center-portion slit through which the
insects are drawn into the trap.
[0021] Preferably, the attractant-emitting element is configured to
store and emit different types of at least one attractant, wherein
the types are at least one type selected from the group consisting
of: a liquid form, a dry solid form, a moist solid form, an
embedded form, a cartridge form, a slow-release form, and wherein
the attractant-emitting element is configured to have an adjustable
airflow regulator adapted to select a release rate and a dispersion
rate of at least one attractant.
[0022] Preferably, the light-emitting element includes an
ultraviolet light source, having an emission wavelength of 280-320
nm, wherein the light source is centered in a gap between at least
two heat-emitting elements.
[0023] Preferably, the transparent grill is transparent to UV
light, and is configured to allow the light to be directed toward
at least two heat-emitting elements.
[0024] According to the present invention, there is provided for
the first time an insect-zapping device for catching biting and
nuisance flies, the device including: (a) a light-emitting element
for attracting and disorienting insects; (b) a zapper base for
supporting the light-emitting element; and (c) an electric grid for
zapping the insects, the electric grid oriented parallel to the
zapper base and positioned below the light-emitting element.
[0025] Preferably, the device further includes: (d) a ventilator
for drawing in attracted insects toward the electric grid.
[0026] Preferably, the electric grid is configured to be powered
when the ventilator is being powered.
[0027] More preferably, the device further includes: (e) a funnel
for causing the attracted insects to fall toward the electric
grid.
[0028] More preferably, the device further includes: (e) a metal
mesh for shielding electric and magnetic fields generated by the
electric grid.
[0029] More preferably, the device further includes: (e) a
collection compartment for storing zapped insects.
[0030] Most preferably, the device further includes: (f) a metal
mesh for shielding electric and magnetic fields generated by the
electric grid, and for preventing human contact with the electric
grid.
[0031] More preferably, the device further includes: (e) at least
one panel for causing the attracted insects to fall toward the
electric grid.
[0032] Most preferably, at least one panel is configured to be
heated and to have a dark color.
[0033] According to the present invention, there is provided for
the first time an insect-trapping device for catching biting flies,
the device including: (a) a cover having an integrated solar panel
and control unit; (b) a collection compartment, positioned below
the cover, for storing trapped insects; (c) a light-emitting
element, positioned below the collection compartment, for
disorienting sensory perceptions of attracted insects by emitting
light; (d) a ventilator, having apertures on top and bottom,
configured: (i) to create an airflow through the device; (ii) to
push the attracted insects from above toward the collection
compartment; and (iii) to pull the attracted insects from below
toward the collection compartment; and (e) an emitter ring, having
an attractant chamber and a CO.sub.2 generator, positioned in close
contact to the ventilator, the emitter ring for releasing CO.sub.2
and at least one attractant into a vicinity of the device; (f) a
heat-emitting element, positioned in close contact to the emitter
ring, for heating the CO.sub.2.
[0034] Preferably, the cover is configured to be tilted in to a
desired angle for optimizing utilization of sunlight.
[0035] Preferably, the cover has a bottom alignment rim for
diverting about 80% of the airflow, coming from the ventilator and
attractant chamber, towards an upper portion of the device.
[0036] Preferably, the control unit has different pre-programmed
operational modes including at least one mode selected from the
group consisting of: an energy-saving mode, regular mode,
short-term mode, long-term mode, a high-performance mode, a day
mode, a night mode, and a day/night mode.
[0037] Preferably, the collection compartment includes an air
baffle, having an internal labyrinth/valve system, for enabling the
attracted insects to enter the collection compartment while the
ventilator is operational, and for preventing the trapped insects
from emerging from the collection compartment while the ventilator
is not operational.
[0038] Preferably, the device further includes: (g) an airflow
director for directing the airflow into the collection
compartment.
[0039] Preferably, the light-emitting element is configured to
produce light having an emission wavelength of 280-320 nm.
[0040] Preferably, the light-emitting element is shielded by a
reflector for redirecting light from the light-emitting element
toward a lower portion of the device in order to reduce an
attraction of non-target insects.
[0041] Preferably, the light-emitting element, the heat-emitting
element, the ventilator, the CO.sub.2 generator, and the attractant
chamber are each configured to synchronously operate according to
independent on/off duty cycles.
[0042] These and further embodiments will be apparent from the
detailed description and examples that follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] The present invention is herein described, by way of example
only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0044] FIG. 1 shows an isometric view of an insect ComboTrap for
catching insects, in particular mosquitoes and houseflies,
according to preferred embodiments of the present invention;
[0045] FIG. 2 shows a top view of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1;
[0046] FIG. 3 shows a front view of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 4 shows a side view of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1;
[0048] FIG. 5A shows an isometric view of the collection
compartment of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1;
[0049] FIG. 5B shows an isometric view of the ventilator
compartment of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1;
[0050] FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
ComboTrap of FIG. 1;
[0051] FIG. 7 is a simplified schematic diagram of an electric-grid
insect zapper, according to the prior art;
[0052] FIG. 8 is a simplified schematic diagram of a first improved
insect zapper, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0053] FIG. 9A is a simplified schematic diagram of a second
improved insect zapper, according to another preferred embodiment
of the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 9B shows an expanded view of the insect zapper of FIG.
9A;
[0055] FIG. 10 is a simplified schematic diagram of a third
improved insect zapper, according to another preferred embodiment
of the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 11 shows a side view of a solar-powered insect trap for
catching biting flies, according to preferred embodiments of the
present invention;
[0057] FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the SolarTrap of
FIG. 11.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0058] The present invention relates to insect-trapping devices
utilizing: shape and color patterns as a visual target; heat,
CO.sub.2, and chemical attractants to attract biting and nuisance
flies toward the device; UV light to knock out the flies'
orientation; and improved suction and shielded electric grids to
eliminate the flies from the vicinity. The principles and operation
for such insect-trapping devices, according to the present
invention, may be better understood with reference to the
accompanying description and the drawings.
Insect ComboTrap
[0059] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows an isometric
view of an insect trap for catching insects, in particular
mosquitoes and houseflies, according to preferred embodiments of
the present invention. An insect ComboTrap 100 having a heated
surface 1 (preferably a concave dark-colored heated surface) is
shown. Heated surface 1 may have various shapes (e.g. elliptical or
square). Heated surface 1 is heated by a heating film (or wire)
that transfers the energy to the external environment.
[0060] The heating arrangement of heated surface 1 includes
multiple strips of heating film with about 1-4 cm between each
strip, making sure to have sufficient heat, as well as a unique,
fluctuating heating pattern with a temperature gradient from
42.degree. C. to ambient room temperatures. The maximum temperature
on the surface of ComboTrap 100 is about 42.degree. C.
[0061] The requirements for such a controlled and patterned heating
arrangement comes from the need to imitate the body-heat pattern of
warm-blooded prey for biting flies (e.g. about 37-44.degree. C.),
as well as the heating patterns emitted by rotting organic matter
(e.g. several degrees above ambient temperature) for house and
filth flies. An attractant-dispersant outlet 12, shown in FIG. 1,
is used to attract insects by dispersing optional attractants in
the vicinity of the ComboTrap 100.
[0062] In FIG. 1, a protective transparent grill 15 provides a
safety feature to keep children's fingers away, and to keep large
non-target insects (e.g. moth, beetles) out of ComboTrap 100. Grill
15 is transparent in order not to block light emitted from the
interior of ComboTrap 100. Grill 15 includes a plurality of
apertures 71 that are preferably positioned in at least one row
along the longitudinal surface of grill 15. Through apertures 71,
insects are sucked into ComboTrap 100, and light is transmitted as
well, serving to attract the insects. The convex grill 15 and the
double row of apertures are additionally reflecting the ultraviolet
light towards the heated surface 1. A hanging handle 14 enables
ComboTrap 100 to hang on a tree or post, for example. A power
switch 16 is also shown in FIG. 1.
[0063] FIG. 2 shows a top view of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1. A dark
sheath 3 is used to cover heated surface 1. It is important that
sheath 3 is dark, relative to the rest of the body of ComboTrap
100, in order to enhance the attraction of insects to heated
surface 1. To enhance the color-pattern and heating-pattern effect,
heated surface 1 is surrounded by a dark unheated top stripe 4 of
about 1-4 cm width along the rim of heated surface 1.
[0064] FIG. 2 also shows an ultraviolet light source 60 positioned
in the center of ComboTrap 100. An emission reflector 7, positioned
under light source 60, is configured to yield a maximum reflection
of UV light from light source 60, while not hindering the airflow
of the suction mechanism positioned further inside ComboTrap 100,
and not increasing the noise level caused by the suction mechanism.
These aims are achieved due to the small convex profile of emission
reflector 7. Emission reflector 7 has the same width as the light
source 60, allowing for adequate passage of airflow. Furthermore,
the convex profile of emission reflector 7 provides better airflow
by acting as an aerodynamic airfoil.
[0065] FIG. 3 shows a front view of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1. A dark
unheated front stripe 5 is shown on the front of ComboTrap 100,
forming a unique three-dimensional pattern and a visual target in
conjunction with dark, heated surface 1 and surrounding top stripe
4. Biting flies are mainly attracted by the heated areas, while
nuisance flies are attracted by the unheated areas. Suction slits 6
are positioned underneath emission reflector 7. Preferably, there
is one central UV light source 60. Preferably, there are at least
two lateral suction slits 6, having a width of between 8 mm to 3
cm.
[0066] FIG. 4 shows a side view of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1. Note
that the dotted lines marking certain areas of FIG. 4 are meant to
define the elements as numbered in the description, and do not
specify sections. The upper portion of ComboTrap 100 has a tilt
angle 2 of between 20.degree. to 70.degree. in the x-z plane. Tilt
angle 2 creates a slanted plane for heated surface 1 (not shown in
FIG. 4) that attracts biting and nuisance flies as well.
Ventilation slits 13 allows a special arrangement for exhaust of
the airflow such that ventilated air is dispersed in a way that
approaching insects are not repelled by the speed or turbulences of
the airflow. Additionally, ventilation slits 13 provide a measure
of safety, preventing hands from being able to contact the moving
parts inside ComboTrap 100. It is noted that the dispersing angle
of attractant-dispersant outlet 12 is limited to a maximum of about
30.degree. relative to the x-z plane in order to prevent the
attractant from being entrained into the inlet portion (i.e.
apertures 71) of ComboTrap 100.
[0067] FIGS. 5A and 5B show the inner portions of ComboTrap 100.
FIG. 5A shows an isometric view of the collection compartment of
the ComboTrap of FIG. 1. A collection compartment 101 houses a
collecting portion 11 in which the insects are trapped until being
disposed, while an attractant cell 10, separated from collecting
portion 11 by a divider 25, contains attractants which are
ventilated and transferred outside ComboTrap 100 via
attractant-dispersant outlet 12. The side panels of collection
compartment 101 have meshed openings. Attractant cell 10 may
contain different cartridges of attractant combinations. Attractant
cell 10 may be in liquid or solid form (either moist or dry).
Changeable airflow regulators (i.e. an adjustable meshed region in
divider 25) determine the ventilation of the attractants, and by
this regulate the release rate of the attractants.
[0068] Examples of attractants include lactic acid, octenol,
flowers extracts, and fruit extracts. Even water will enhance the
attraction of mosquitoes due to the presence of moisture. The
unique configuration of ComboTrap 100 allows the attractants
emitted by the trapped insects to blend with attractants contained
in the attractant cell 10. Some trapped insect species, especially
house flies before and even after their death, emit attractants
through their body. Furthermore, attractant cell 10 serves to
isolate trapped insects from the attractants (especially liquid
attractants) in order to avoid possible rotting of the trapped
insects (and by this to avoid producing a foul odor).
[0069] FIG. 5B shows an isometric view of the ventilator
compartment of the ComboTrap of FIG. 1. A ventilator compartment
102, having a funnel-shaped suction channel 8, is shown. As
mentioned above, ventilation is critical in such an insect trap as
the airflow has to be maximized, while the power consumption and
the noise have to be minimized. In ventilator compartment 102, the
cross-section that the airflow passes through will always be larger
than cross-section of a ventilator 9 (going from inlet to outlet
side of the airflow path). The maximum strength of the airflow is
at the inlet as a result of a venturi-tube shape to the lower
portion of ventilator compartment 102 (shown in FIG. 6). So,
insects are sucked in by an airflow path in a continuous stream
from the inlet to the outlet. Ventilator compartment 102 is
positioned beneath light source 60, and is arranged to ensure a low
noise level along with an optimum suction level.
[0070] FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
ComboTrap of FIG. 1. The airflow arrangement at the bottom of
ComboTrap 100 is created by collection compartment 101, ventilation
slits 13, ventilator compartment 102, and the internal and external
shape of ComboTrap 100. Air flows out of the meshed side panels of
collection compartment 101 and ventilation slits 13. The ventilated
air is dispersed in a way that approaching insects are not repelled
by the speed or turbulences of the airflow.
[0071] ComboTrap 100 includes an electronic board 17 for
controlling all electrical functionality of ComboTrap 100 including
current regulation and temperature control, and a power socket 18.
A collection-compartment cover 19, having a mesh cone, enables
insects to enter collecting portion 11, but gives the insects only
a very small aperture (e.g. 8-15 mm) to leave (e.g. "fish basket"
principle). Collection-compartment cover 19 keeps trapped insects
inside ComboTrap 100, and makes sure that the airflow forces the
insects into collecting portion 11. A lower airflow director 20 and
an upper airflow director 21 are two sleeves which direct the
airflow, and keep the airflow in one flow path. A grid, located on
lower airflow director 20, prevents fingers from contacting
ventilator 9 even when collection compartment 101 is exposed.
[0072] The trap according to the present invention includes an
attractant which may be suitable for all kinds of insects,
especially for mosquitoes. An attractant "cocktail" can be yielded
from fermentation processes with different types of yeast. Among
these attractants, the most potent ones are lactic acid, acetone,
3-methylbutanol, glutamic acid, tyrosine, lysine, and
phenylalanine. These attractants (as well as others not specified
here) are collected from the fermentation process (by collecting
the emitted gases), and are enriched and embedded in ethanol, aqua
dist., or other suitable carriers including all kinds of
slow-release substances. The attractants, with the carrier, can be
packed in a variety of cartridges to ensure easy handling and long
shelf-life. The attractants that are based on food products and
processes are also FDA-exempt.
[0073] The attractants are either released in the main air-stream,
or released through attractant-dispersant outlet 12 towards the
front of ComboTrap 100 with the help of a specially-diverted
partial air-stream, or by passive diffusion only.
Attractant-dispersant outlet 12 diffuses the air at an angle of
approximately 30.degree. relative to the x-z plane, as shown in
FIG. 4. The measurements and angles shown in the drawings are meant
to serve strictly as examples, and are in no way limiting.
Insect Zapper
[0074] FIG. 7 is a simplified schematic diagram of an electric-grid
insect zapper, according to the prior art. An insect zapper 200
having a zapper base 210 and an electric grid 201, positioned in
front of an "attracting" UV light source 202, is shown in FIG. 7.
Electric grid 201 is typically oriented perpendicular to zapper
base 210. Insect zapper 200 produces poor results with regard to
mosquitoes. Insect zappers such as insect zapper 200 act as a
repellant toward mosquitoes due to the magnetic and electric fields
created by electric grid 201.
[0075] Such magnetic and electric fields act as a repellant toward
other insects as well; however, because such insects are flying at
such high speeds, the insects to not have enough time to redirect
their course. Thus, the insects collide into the electric grid, and
are zapped. In contrast, mosquitoes tend to have a hovering and
swarming flight pattern as they assess their prey. Thus, when the
mosquitoes feel the presence of the fields, they are repelled, and
redirect their course before colliding into the electric grid.
[0076] FIG. 8 is a simplified schematic diagram of a first improved
insect zapper, according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention. An insect zapper 250, which is operative to zap other
insects as well, has electric grid 201 positioned below UV light
source 202, thereby reducing the repelling effect caused by
electric grid 201, especially when electric grid 201 is oriented
parallel to zapper base 210, according to preferred embodiments of
the present invention. To draw insects and mosquitoes toward
electric grid 201, a ventilator 204 is positioned below or above
electric grid 201. In another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, a funnel 205 is included to enhance the performance of
ventilator 204 with electric grid 201. Funnel 205 causes the
insects and mosquitoes to be fall down toward electric grid 201
after the insects and mosquitoes collide with interior surface of
funnel 205.
[0077] FIG. 9A is a simplified schematic diagram of a second
improved insect zapper, according to another preferred embodiment
of the present invention. An insect zapper 260 having a metal mesh
206 is shown in FIG. 9A. Metal mesh 206 serves to further reduce
the repelling effect caused by electric grid 201 by shielding the
electric and magnetic fields created in the vicinity of electric
grid 201. Mosquito zapper 260 also has a collection compartment
207. FIG. 9B shows an expanded view of the insect zapper of FIG.
9A.
[0078] FIG. 10 is a simplified schematic diagram of a third
improved insect zapper, according to another preferred embodiment
of the present invention. An insect zapper 270 having a plurality
of heated panels 208, which serve as an attractant for
blood-sucking flies (e.g. mosquitoes), is shown in FIG. 10. Panels
208 are heated in the range of about 35-42.degree. C., and are
shown oriented perpendicular to zapper base 210. Panels 208 are
preferably dark-colored. Such a vertical arrangement for panels 208
serves to divert mosquitoes, which are circling around light source
202, towards ventilator 204 by hitting panels 208 and falling down
toward ventilator 204 and electric grid 201. The performance of
insect zapper 270 is further improved if panels 208 have a dark
color. FIG. 10 also shows an optional protective screen 209. In
another preferred embodiment of the present invention, electric
grid 201 is switched on and off, in coordination with ventilator
204, in order to temporarily remove the electro-magnetic field
completely.
Insect SolarTrap
[0079] FIG. 11 shows a side view of a solar-powered insect trap for
catching biting flies, according to preferred embodiments of the
present invention. An insect SolarTrap 300, having legs 301, is
shown in FIG. 11. The profile of SolarTrap 300, exposed to an
approaching biting fly, is reduced to a minimum in order to guide
the insects towards the center of SolarTrap 300, which is the
visual target and the capture zone. A battery compartment and
electronic control center 302 contains the batteries (that enable
48-hour operation without sunlight) and the electronic parts.
Control center 302 sets the time for operation, sets the connecting
conditions that ensure maximum charging efficiency, and defines the
operating conditions when available power is low (e.g. low
ampere\hour usage). Control center 302 allows for different,
pre-programmed operational modes (e.g. energy-saving mode, regular
mode, short-term mode, long-term mode, high-performance mode, day
mode, night mode, and day/night mode).
[0080] A better view of the internal components of SolarTrap 300
can be seen in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the
SolarTrap of FIG. 11. An attractant/CO.sub.2 emitter ring 303 has
an attractant chamber and CO.sub.2 generator, both located in the
center portion of emitter ring 303. Half of emitter ring 303 houses
the CO.sub.2 generator (e.g. concentrating CO.sub.2 from the air,
and releasing the CO.sub.2 by magnetic field), and the other half
of emitter ring 303 houses the attractant chamber (e.g. Westham's
attractant and octenol). The attractant is released through
numerous apertures in emitter ring 303. The position of the two
attractants (i.e. the CO.sub.2 generator and the attractant
chamber) is selected such that the attractants diffuse into the
middle of the capture zone.
[0081] Heating element 304 is a small, circular component that
heats emitter ring 303 (e.g. 39-44.degree. C.) by surrounding the
release valve of the CO.sub.2 generator of emitter ring 303 to
attract biting flies into the capture zone of SolarTrap 300. A
ventilator 305 is used to "push/pull" the mosquitoes. Ventilator
305 works in pulses of about 5-10 sec. on, followed by about 15-60
sec. off. The use of such pulses increases the efficiency of
SolarTrap 300 as mosquitoes are disturbed by strong air streams and
air turbulences, as well as noises. Emitter ring 303 is situated in
close contact with ventilator 305.
[0082] A UV light source 306 (e.g. 280-320 nanometer emission
wavelength) enhances the performance of SolarTrap 300 by
disorienting attracted insects. A reflector 307 is used to
intensify and direct the UV light emitted from light source 306. UV
light from light source 306 is shielded by protruding, concave
reflector 307, and redirected toward the ground to reduce the
attraction of non-target species that might otherwise be attracted
from a far distance to the ultraviolet light emanating from
SolarTrap 300. The emitted UV light shines downward in a conical
shape toward the ground.
[0083] So, while the mosquitoes approach the released CO.sub.2 and
attractant, hovering around the capture zone of SolarTrap 300, the
UV knocks out their orientation, the air pulses take the mosquitoes
by surprise and force the mosquitoes into a collection compartment
308. The push/pull function is used to account for the fact that
mosquitoes, located above and below ventilator 305, are affected by
the air pulses, and pushed/pulled into collection compartment 308.
By nature of the configuration and push/pull operation, the
"capture area" is doubled compared to conventional suction traps
which only "pull" mosquitoes into the collecting section.
Collection compartment 308 makes sure that the airflow will not
crumble the trapped and desiccated (i.e. fragile) mosquitoes.
Attractant cartridges (e.g. octenol and/or lactic acid) can be hung
on a hook below ventilator 305.
[0084] Synchronization of heat, light, airflow, CO.sub.2, and
attractant release occurs as follows: heating element 304 is
continuously operational, the UV light and airflow are
pulse-programmed, the CO.sub.2 is released in short pulses every 5
to 10 seconds, and the attractant is evenly and continuously
released.
[0085] An exemplary program cycle is provided here for illustrative
purposes. Light source 306 is programmed to operate in pulses of
about 5-10 sec., followed about 1-2 sec. later by ventilator 305
operating for about 5-10 sec., followed by an interval of about
10-60 sec. without any airflow or light. The length of the
intervals depends on the various modes that can be selected.
CO.sub.2 is only emitted while there is no airflow. The pulsed
features significantly increase the performance of SolarTrap 300 to
catch mosquitoes because biting flies are disturbed considerably by
airflow and noise (from ventilator 305). The off-duty intervals (of
ventilator 305 and light source 306) allow the attractants and
CO.sub.2 to form highly-attractive plumes in the vicinity of
SolarTrap 300. Furthermore, the off-duty intervals allow mosquitoes
to approach such plumes undisturbed. After which, the UV light
knocks out the mosquitoes orientation, making it easy for
ventilator 305 to push/pull them toward collection compartment
308.
[0086] An air baffle 309, forming an internal labyrinth/valve
system, is integrated into collection compartment 308. The
labyrinth/valve-system structure enables mosquitoes to enter, but
ensures that the mosquitoes cannot emerge from air baffle 309. An
airflow director 310 (resembling downward-pointing funnel) forces
the air above into collection compartment 308. A wire mesh 311
lines the walls of collection compartment 308, and enables maximum
air to flow through SolarTrap 300. A solar panel 312 is used to
energize heating elements 304, ventilator 305, light source 306,
the magnetic field used for the CO.sub.2 generator, and the
rechargeable batteries over time.
[0087] A transparent protective cover 313 can be opened in order to
access control center 302. Cover 313 can be tilted to a desired
angle (depending on the latitude SolarTrap 300 is deployed at) in
order to ensure an optimal utilization of sunlight, and proper
alignment of the bottom of cover 313 to divert about 80% of the
airflow coming from emitter ring 304 and ventilator 305) toward the
top of SolarTrap 300.
[0088] While the invention has been described with respect to a
limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many
variations, modifications, and other applications of the invention
may be made.
* * * * *