U.S. patent application number 14/259111 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-06 for flexible electric deterrent device with molded conductors.
This patent application is currently assigned to Bird Barrier America, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Cameron A. Riddell. Invention is credited to Cameron A. Riddell.
Application Number | 20140328000 14/259111 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51841324 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140328000 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Riddell; Cameron A. |
November 6, 2014 |
FLEXIBLE ELECTRIC DETERRENT DEVICE WITH MOLDED CONDUCTORS
Abstract
An electric deterrent device and methods for installing and
producing an electric deterrent device for delivering an electric
shock to an animal, pest, or bird to be deterred, having the
components of an elongated flexible non-conductive base to which
the electrically conductive elements are coupled, where the
conductive elements are coupled to base during the extrusion
process.
Inventors: |
Riddell; Cameron A.;
(Carson, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Riddell; Cameron A. |
Carson |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Bird Barrier America, Inc.
Carson
CA
|
Family ID: |
51841324 |
Appl. No.: |
14/259111 |
Filed: |
April 22, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61818114 |
May 1, 2013 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
361/232 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01M 29/26 20130101;
F41B 15/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
361/232 |
International
Class: |
F41B 15/04 20060101
F41B015/04 |
Claims
1. An electric deterrent device, comprising: an elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip; a first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element molded into the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip; a second elongated flexible
electrically conductive element molded into the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip; wherein the first elongated
flexible electrically conductive element is molded into the
elongated flexible electrically non-conductive base strip such that
the first elongated flexible electrically conductive element is at
least partially embedded in the elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip, and at least another portion of the
first elongated flexible electrically conductive element is
disposed on the exterior of the elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip; wherein the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip further comprises at least
one void extending along the length of the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip.
2. The electric deterrent device of claim 1, wherein the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element is a conductive
polymer.
3. The electric deterrent device of claim 1, wherein the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element comprises a
shape selected from the group of an undulating shape, a sinusoidal
shape, a zigzag shape, a curved shape, a jagged or ridged shape, a
square shape, a rectangular shape, a box step shape, a shape where
the peaks are substantially flat relative to the top of the base
strip, or any combination thereof.
4. An electric deterrent device, comprising: an elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip; a first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element co-extruded with the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip; a second elongated
flexible electrically conductive element co-extruded with the
elongated flexible electrically non-conductive base strip; wherein
the first elongated flexible electrically conductive element is
co-extruded with the elongated flexible electrically non-conductive
base strip such that the first elongated flexible electrically
conductive element is at least partially embedded in the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip, and at least
another portion of the first elongated flexible electrically
conductive element is disposed on the exterior of the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip; wherein the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element is at least
partially comprised of a conductive polymer.
5. The electric deterrent device of claim 4, wherein the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element is at least
partially comprised of a metal.
6. The electric deterrent device of claim 5, wherein the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element is at least
partially coated by a conductive polymer.
7. The electric deterrent device of claim 5, wherein a metal
portion of the first elongated flexible electrically conductive
element is coupled to a conductive polymer portion of the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element.
8. The electric deterrent device of claim 7, wherein at least part
of the metal portion of the first elongated flexible electrically
conductive element is embedded into the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip.
9. The electric deterrent device of claim 7, wherein at least part
of the conductive polymer portion of the first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element is embedded into the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip.
10. The electric deterrent device of claim 7, wherein the
conductive polymer portion of the first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element is not embedded into the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip.
11. The electric deterrent device of claim 4, wherein the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element comprises a
shape selected from the group of an undulating shape, a sinusoidal
shape, a zigzag shape, a curved shape, a jagged or ridged shape, a
square shape, a rectangular shape, a box step shape, a shape where
the peaks are substantially flat relative to the top of the base
strip, or any combination thereof.
12. The electric deterrent device of claim 4, wherein the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip further comprises
at least one void extending along the length of the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/818,114, filed May 1, 2013, the entirety of
which is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD
[0002] This patent document relates in general to an electric
deterrent device that delivers an electric shock to animals or
pests that come into contact with it. In particular, this patent
document pertains to such devices that are adapted for use as bird
deterrent devices.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Electricity was first put to commercial and residential use
in the United States in the late 1800's, to solve the age-old
problem of darkness. Ever since, the ability of electrical current
to deliver an electric shock to a person or animal has been
recognized. Shortly thereafter, the non-lethal applications of
electricity for use in encouraging the behavior of animals was
commercially implemented. The electric cattle prod is perhaps the
best known of those devices. Today, however, electricity is used in
many ways with animals. As just a few examples, electric fences are
used to keep farm animals in and predators out, and dog trainers
use electrical stimulus in dog collars to assist with dog
training
[0004] An age-old problem that has been perplexing mankind since
long before the discovery and harnessing of electricity is the
propensity of pests in general, but particularly birds, to land in
areas where their human neighbors would prefer they did not. An
incredible array of devices have been used to dissuade birds from
landing or roosting in areas undesirable to humans. Metallic
spikes, coil or rotating devices, sound-emitting devices, imitation
predators, and even real predators, are just a few examples of bird
deterrent devices that have been used.
[0005] At some point in the evolution of bird deterrent devices
lethal and non-lethal electrical shock began to be employed as a
bird deterrent. One device of this type is shown in U.S. Pat. No.
4,299,048. In one embodiment, a pair of copper wires connected to a
power source are embedded in opposite sides of a cable of
appropriate diameter such that when the birds of choice (in this
case, starlings) land on the cable, their feet touch both wires,
closing the circuit and thereby delivering a lethal shock to the
birds.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 6,283,064 discloses another version of a bird
and pest deterrent device in which a pair of crimped copper wires
are appropriately spaced apart so that the bird's or other pest's
feet will touch both wires, resulting in a short circuit and
delivering a shock to the bird or other pest.
[0007] Other devices for carrying electric charges for discouraging
birds and other pests are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,294,893;
3,366,854; 3,717,802; 4,299,048; and 5,850,808. A common idea to
all of these devices is the concept of appropriately spaced-apart
electrical contacts which will both be connected by the bird's (or
other pest's) feet (or other part of their anatomy) so as to
deliver the appropriate electric shock.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 7,481,021 to Riddell uses a flexible track and
replaces the typically-used wire with a braided conductive element
that may be sewn to the base. This configuration helps alleviate
the problem of the wire separating from its base when the track is
bent to fit certain surfaces.
[0009] Some other devices and methods are disclosed, for example,
in the following: U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,015,747; 8,020,340; 8,286,385;
U.S. Publication No. 2013/0042817; and international applications
WO 95/08915; and WO 2012/040009.
[0010] In a device such as that disclosed in international
application WO 95/08915 where there is no thread holding the
conductive elements to the base, if the rigid base of WO 95/08915
were flexed the conductive elements would undesirably separate from
or detach from the base.
[0011] While all of these devices work at least initially to a
degree in some installations, the designs of the current systems
exhibit problems. One problem is the unwanted shorting of the
conductive wires due to an accumulation of water beneath the track
or base. For example, the stitching used to secure the metal braids
or metal mesh to flexible polyvinyl chloride ("PVC") extrusions can
create problems with respect to arcing to some surface materials.
Occasionally, the sewing machine's needle breaks a wire strand and
pushes it through the bottom of the base. When the wire is
electrified these strands can arc with a wet or metal surface
below. In addition, water that pools underneath the track can be
absorbed by the thread used to sew the conductive wire to the base,
creating a conductor and causing an arc to the surface below.
Raising the stitch off the surface by means of a groove does not
eliminate this problem.
[0012] While the existing animal deterrents are useful to a degree,
they still suffer from certain drawbacks that may cause undesired
short circuiting of the device. Therefore, there exists a need in
the art for an improved electrical shock deterrent device that
solves or at least alleviates some or all of these problems.
SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0013] Systems and methods for deterring animals by using
electrical animal deterrent devices and systems and methods of
installing and manufacturing such electric deterrent devices are
disclosed and claimed herein.
[0014] As described more fully below, the apparatus and processes
of the embodiments disclosed permit improved systems and methods
for deterring animals by using electrical animal deterrent devices
and systems and methods of manufacturing such electric deterrent
devices. Further aspects, objects, desirable features, and
advantages of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein will be
better understood and apparent to one skilled in the relevant art
in view of the detailed description and drawings that follow, in
which various embodiments are illustrated by way of example. It is
to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the
purpose of illustration only and are not intended as a definition
of the limits of the claimed embodiments.
[0015] To this end, an electric deterrent device is provided, the
electric deterrent device comprising an elongated flexible base
strip; a conductive element molded into the elongated flexible base
strip. In some embodiments the conductive element is co-molded into
the elongated flexible base strip. In some embodiments the
conductive element is co-extruded into the elongated flexible base
strip. In some embodiments, the conductive element comprises an
undulating shape. In some embodiments, the base strip is
non-conductive. In some embodiments, the conductive element
comprises an undulating shape wherein the valleys of the undulating
shape of the conductive element are molded into the elongated
flexible non-conductive base strip. In some embodiments, the
conductive element comprises an undulating shape wherein the peaks
of the undulating shape extend out of the elongated flexible
non-conductive base strip.
[0016] In other embodiments, the conductive element may comprise a
shape selected from the group of an undulating shape, a sinusoidal
shape, a zigzag shape, a curved shape, a jagged or ridged shape, a
square shape, a rectangular shape, a box step shape, a shape where
the peaks are substantially flat relative to the top of the base
strip, or any combination thereof.
[0017] In some embodiments, the base is constructed entirely of a
non-conductive material. In another embodiment, the elongated base
strip is made primarily of plastic. In another embodiment, the
elongated flexible base strip is made primarily of a flexible
plastic material. In another embodiment, the elongated base strip
is made primarily of a rigid material. In yet another embodiment,
the elongated base strip is constructed primarily of polyvinyl
chloride. In yet another embodiment, the elongated flexible base
strip is constructed entirely of flexible polyvinyl chloride. In
yet another embodiment, the elongated flexible base strip is
constructed entirely of rubber. In some embodiments, the elongated
flexible base strip is constructed entirely of a material selected
from the group of neoprene, fluoroelastomer, silicone, natural
rubber, buna N (nitrile), buna S (SBR), thermoplastic rubber,
synthetic polyisoprene, EPDM and polyurethane.
[0018] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a second
conductive element. In some embodiments, the conductive element is
made of metal. In other embodiments, the conductive element is made
of multiple strands. In other embodiments, the conductive element
is made of a single strand. In some embodiments, the conductive
element is the shape of a flat ribbon. In other embodiments, the
conductive element is the shape of a tube. In some embodiments, the
conductive element is made of one tube inside of another tube, or
an inner tube and an outer tube configuration. In other
embodiments, the conductive element is made of a single strand
interwoven with itself. In another embodiment, the strands are made
of metal. In yet another embodiment, at least one strand is made of
metal, and at least one strand is made of a non-conductive
material. In other embodiments, some of the strands are made of
metal and some are not. In some embodiments, the strands are
constructed of stainless steel, copper, or zinc plated copper, or a
combination thereof. In some embodiments, the conductive element
may be a wire. In some embodiments, the conductive element may be a
ribbon. In some embodiments, the conductive element may be a sheet.
In some embodiments, the conductive element may be a rod.
[0019] In another embodiment, the conductive element is
substantially flat in cross section. In yet another embodiment, the
conductive element is substantially round in cross section. In
another embodiment, the strands of the conductive element are woven
loosely together. In yet another embodiment, the strands of the
conductive element are woven tightly together.
[0020] In some embodiments, when the base is bent in any direction,
the elements are molded with the base such that the deterrent
device can be bent into a curvature radius of less than one inch
without permanent deformation of either the base or the conductive
elements.
[0021] In some embodiments, the conductive element is braided. In
other embodiments, the conductive element is a mesh. In some
embodiments, the conductive element is knitted. In other
embodiments, the conductive element is made of interlocking loops.
In some embodiments, the conductive element contains at least one
free space through the conductive element. In other embodiments,
the strands form free spaces within the conductive element, as for
example free or open spaces in a braid, mesh, knitted, woven, or
interlocking loops configuration of the conductive element.
[0022] In some embodiments, the strands are intermittently in
contact along the length of the conductive element. In other
embodiments, the strands are in repetitive intermittent contact for
at least a portion of the length of the conductive element. In some
embodiments, the strands may be interwoven to form the conductive
element. In other embodiments, the strands may be interwoven
together to form the conductive element. In some embodiments, the
conductive element may be comprised of a single strand interwoven
with itself. In some embodiments, the conductive element may be a
sheet. In some embodiments, the conductive element may be a
tube.
[0023] In some embodiments, the electric deterrent device further
comprises an arc suppressor disposed between the first conductive
element and the second conductive element. In some embodiments, the
arc suppressor is raised above the top surface of the base. In
other embodiments, the arc suppressor may comprise a peak, pyramid,
or triangular shape. In some embodiments, the arc suppressor is
elevated above the top surface of the base. In another embodiment,
the arc suppressor comprises an umbrelloid shape, a T-shape, a
stemmed inverted U-shape, or a stemmed inverted V-shape.
[0024] In another embodiment, the thickness of the top layer
decreases proximate to the first conductive element. In yet another
embodiment, a surface area of the bottom surface of the bottom
layer is increased over a substantial portion of the bottom surface
of the bottom layer.
[0025] In some embodiments, the electric deterrent device comprises
an elongated base having a cross section including a top layer with
a top surface and a bottom surface, and a bottom layer; the bottom
layer is coupled to the top layer enclosing a gap. In yet another
embodiment, the cross section of the elongated base has a slit that
extends from an exterior to the gap. In another embodiment, the
slit is positioned such that it creates a flap in the top layer or
the bottom layer, wherein the flap covers at least a portion of the
gap. In some embodiments, the flap is sufficiently flexible to
allow it to be bent either upward to contact the inside surface of
the top layer of the base, or outward to allow outside access to
the inside surface of the top layer.
[0026] In some embodiments, the cross section includes a center
divider connecting the top layer and the bottom layer and is
located substantially in a center of the elongated base and
extending substantially perpendicular to the top layer. In another
embodiment, the bottom layer is coupled to the top layer by the
center divider. In another embodiment, the thickness of the bottom
layer increases proximate to the slit.
[0027] In some embodiments, the first conductive element and the
second conductive element are attachable respectively to the
positive and negative terminals of a power source.
[0028] In some embodiments, the electric deterrent device further
comprises an anchor protruding down from the bottom surface of the
top layer. In another embodiment, a portion of the anchor proximate
to its bottom is thicker than a portion of the anchor further from
its bottom. In another embodiment, the anchor is an inverted T
shape. In yet another embodiment, the anchor and the bottom layer
are sealed with an adhesive such as glue. In another embodiment,
further comprising an anchor protruding down from the bottom
surface of the top layer, the thickness of the gap tapers down
proximate to the anchor.
[0029] In some embodiments the base may contain a single gap that
extends along the length of the base. In other embodiments the base
may contain a substantially enclosed interior space that extends
along the length of the base. In other embodiments the base may
contain multiple gaps that extend along the length of the base. In
other embodiments the base may contain substantially enclosed
interior spaces that extend along the length of the base.
[0030] In some embodiments, an at least one void extends along the
length of the elongated base. In some embodiments, the void extends
along the longitudinal length of the elongated base. In some
embodiments, the void is open at the ends of the elongated base. In
some embodiments, the void is closed at the ends of the elongated
base. In some embodiments, the elongated base comprises a plurality
of voids extending perpendicular to the cross section of the
elongated base. In some embodiments, the voids may contain an
adhesive, an aerogel, or a foam. In some embodiments, the
electrical conductors may extend at least partially into the gap.
In some embodiments, the electrical conductor may extend at least
partially into the at least one void. In some embodiments, the
electrical conductor may extend at least partially into a gap. In
some embodiments, the base of the electric deterrent device has no
gaps and no voids.
[0031] In some embodiments, at least a portion of a void may
include a low-density material, such as a foam or aerogel. In some
embodiments, the conductive element may be comprised of a single
strand. In some embodiments, the conductive element may be
comprised of a single strand interwoven with itself. In some
embodiments, the conductive element may be comprised of a tube. In
some embodiments, the conductive element may be comprised of an
inner tube and an outer tube. In some embodiments, the conductive
element may be comprised of a tube, wherein the tube is further
comprised of a single strand. In some embodiments, the conductive
element may be comprised of a tube, wherein the tube is further
comprised of a single strand interwoven with itself. In some
embodiments, the conductive element may be a conductive sheet or
ribbon. In some embodiments, the conductive element may be a
conductive sheet with no free spaces. In some embodiments, the
conductive element may be a conductive tube. In some embodiments,
the conductive element may be a conductive rod. In some
embodiments, the conductive element may be a conductive wire. In
some embodiments, the conductive element may be a conductive tube
with additional holes or free spaces around the tube's outer
surface extending to the tube's inner surface around the tube's
circumference.
[0032] In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the base may
comprise a shape that increases the surface area of the bottom
layer as compared to a flat surface. In some embodiments, an
adhesive such as glue may be applied to the portions of the bottom
layer with an increased surface area to increase the bonding
strength of the deterrent device when it is applied to the building
or surface on which it is to be installed. In some embodiments, the
bottom surface with an increased surface area of the base may
comprise ridges. In some embodiments, the ridged pattern may be
repeatable shapes. In other embodiments, the bottom surface may
have non-repeating shapes. The ridged bottom surface may also be
referred to as jagged or toothed. In other embodiments, the bottom
surface may be corrugated or ribbed. In other embodiments, the
bottom surface of the device may comprise ridges, channels,
grooves, notches, holes, or any combination thereof. In some
embodiments, an adhesive such as glue may be applied between the
bottom surface of the device and an exterior surface such that at
least a portion of the adhesive may disposed in any ridges,
channels, grooves, notches, holes, or a combination thereof.
[0033] In some embodiments, the flexible elongated base strip is
substantially non-conductive. In other embodiments the elongated
base strip may have varying degrees of flexibility. In other
embodiments the elongated base strip may be inflexible or
substantially rigid.
[0034] In one form, an electric deterrent device is provided, the
electric deterrent device comprises an elongated flexible
non-conductive base strip; and at least one conductive element
attached to the elongated flexible non-conductive base strip by
molding, heat-melting, clamps, glue, pins, tacs, nails, screws,
sewing, staples, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments,
the conductive element is co-molded to the base strip. In some
embodiments, the clamps are attached to the sides of the base
strip. In some embodiments, the pins, tacs, nails, screws, or
staples do not penetrate the bottom surface of the device.
[0035] In one form, an electric deterrent device is provided, the
electric deterrent device comprises a flexible elongated
non-conductive base strip; a first conductive element molded to the
base strip; and a second conductive element molded to the base
strip, wherein a first portion of the second conductive element is
molded into the base strip, and a second portion of the second
conductive element protrudes upward from a top surface of the base
strip.
[0036] In one form, an electric deterrent device is provided, the
electric deterrent device comprising an elongated base having a
cross section including a top layer with a top surface and a bottom
surface, and a bottom layer; a first conductive element extending
perpendicular to the cross section along the top surface of the top
layer; wherein the first conductive element is molded to the top
surface of the top layer at a first connection point and extends
from the top surface through the top layer to a second connection
point on the bottom surface of the top layer.
[0037] In some embodiments, the bottom layer substantially
insulates the first conductive element at the second connection
point from moisture or bird excrement. In some embodiments, the
bottom layer at least partially insulates the first conductive
element at the second connection point from moisture or bird
excrement. In some embodiments, the bottom layer isolates the first
conductive element at the second connection point from an
exterior.
[0038] In some embodiments, the cross section of the elongated base
has a slit in an exterior surface of the elongated base such that
the slit creates a flap in the bottom layer of the elongated base
where the flap helps insulate the first conductive element at the
second connection point from moisture or bird excrement.
[0039] In some embodiments, wherein the elongated base further
comprises at least one gap, into which at least one conductive
element may extend; and at least one void into which no conductive
elements extend.
[0040] In some embodiments, the conductive element is made of a
single strand. In some embodiments, the conductive element is made
of multiple strands.
[0041] In some embodiments, a first conductive element is molded to
the base, wherein a first portion of the first conductive element
is molded into the base, and a second portion of the first
conductive element protrudes upward from a top surface of the base.
In some embodiments, the first portion of the of the first
conductive element that is molded into the base extends through a
bottom surface of a top layer of the base into a gap. In some
embodiments, the base further comprises at least one slit that
creates at least one flap in the bottom layer of the base.
[0042] In one form, a method of producing an electric deterrent
device is provided, the method comprising: pressing a first portion
of a conductive element into a non-conductive base during the
co-extrusion process while the base material is still in its molten
state; wherein a first portion of the conductive element sets into
the non-conductive base material, and a second portion of the
conductive element extends upward from the non-conductive base.
[0043] In one form, a method of producing an electric deterrent
device is provided, the method comprising: co-extruding a flexible
elongated non-conductive base strip while feeding a first
conductive element with an undulated shape comprising peaks and
valleys through an extruder with the non-conductive base strip such
that at least some of the valley portions of the conductive element
are positioned into the non-conductive base such that at least a
portion of the material of the non-conductive base forms around at
least a portion of the valley before the base material completely
cools from its state; and wherein at least some of the peak
portions of the conductive element extend upward from the
non-conductive base strip.
[0044] In some embodiments, the conductive element is a stainless
steel wire. In some embodiments, the conductive element is a
conductive plastic. In some embodiments, the wire is fed directly
into the extrusion tool. In other embodiments, the wire is fed into
the base after extrusion.
[0045] In one form, an electric deterrent device is provided, the
electric deterrent device comprising: an elongated flexible
non-conductive base strip; a conductive element co-molded with the
elongated flexible non-conductive base strip so that portions of
the conductive element extend upward from the surface of the
elongated flexible non-conductive base strip.
[0046] In some embodiments, the electric deterrent device has a
bottom layer and top layer. In another embodiment, the bottom layer
is coupled to the top layer enclosing a gap. In yet another
embodiment, the cross section of the elongated base has a slit that
extends from an exterior to the gap. In another embodiment, the
slit is positioned such that it creates a flap in the top layer or
the bottom layer, wherein the flap covers at least a portion of the
gap. In some embodiments, the flap is sufficiently flexible to
allow it to be folded to obtain access to a bottom surface of the
top layer from an exterior.
[0047] In certain embodiments, the electric deterrent device
further comprises a second conductive element coupled to the top
surface of the top layer and extending parallel to the first
conductive element. In another embodiment, an adhesive is disposed
on a portion of conductive element that extends into the gap. In
another embodiment, the first conductive element extends from the
top surface of the top layer through the bottom surface of the top
layer.
[0048] In some embodiments, the cross section includes a center
divider connecting the top layer and the bottom layer and is
located substantially in a center of the elongated base and
extending substantially perpendicular to the top layer. In another
embodiment, the bottom layer is coupled to the top layer by the
center divider. In yet another embodiment, the first conductive
element and the second conductive element are attachable
respectively to the positive and negative terminals of a power
source. In another embodiment, the thickness of the bottom layer
increases proximate to the slit.
[0049] In some embodiments, the electric deterrent device further
comprises an anchor protruding down from the bottom surface of the
top layer. In another embodiment, a portion of the anchor proximate
to its bottom is thicker than a portion of the anchor further from
its bottom. In another embodiment, the anchor is an inverted T
shape. In yet another embodiment, the anchor and the bottom layer
are sealed with an adhesive. In another embodiment, further
comprising an anchor protruding down from the bottom surface of the
top layer, the thickness of the gap tapers down proximate to the
anchor.
[0050] In another embodiment, the first conductive element extends
through the bottom layer to a third connection point on the bottom
surface of the bottom layer.
[0051] In certain embodiments, the first conductive element is made
of metal. In another embodiment, the first conductive element
further comprises a braided wire. In yet another embodiment, the
braided wire comprises some strands of a conductive material and
other strands of a non-conductive material. In another embodiment,
a gap at an end of the elongated base is sealed off from an
exterior.
[0052] In some embodiments, the electric deterrent device further
comprises an arc suppressor disposed between the first conductive
element and the second conductive element. In another embodiment,
the thickness of the top layer decreases proximate to the first
conductive element. In yet another embodiment, a surface area of
the bottom surface of the bottom layer is increased over a
substantial portion of the bottom surface of the bottom layer.
[0053] In one form, the present disclosure provides an electric
deterrent device, comprising a first non-conductive piece having a
top side and a bottom side a conductive element coupled to the
first non-conductive piece wherein the conductive element extends
from the first non-conductive piece to the bottom side; and a
second non-conductive piece coupled to the first non-conductive
piece wherein the second non-conductive piece covers the conductive
element and insulates the conductive element from an exterior.
[0054] In certain embodiments, the first non-conductive piece is
coupled to the second non-conductive piece by an adhesive. In
another embodiment, the second non-conductive piece is coupled to
the first non-conductive piece by interlocking In yet another
embodiment, the first nonconductive piece and the second
non-conductive piece comprise an interlocking shape; and wherein
the interlocking shape is selected from the group of a T-shape, a
stemmed inverted V-shape, a stemmed inverted U-shape, a stemmed
circular shape, and an arrowhead shape.
[0055] In one form, the present disclosure provides an electric
deterrent device, comprising an elongated base having a hollow
interior space forming a top inside surface and a bottom inside
surface; a first conductive element molded to a top of the
elongated base wherein the first conductive element extends from a
top outside surface of the elongated base through to the top inside
surface of the elongated base; and a second conductive element
molded to a top of the elongated base wherein the second conductive
element extends from the top outside surface of the elongated base
through to the top inside surface of the elongated base.
[0056] In another embodiment, the elongated base has a slit that
extends from the outside of the elongated base to the hollow
interior space. In some embodiments, the slit that extends from the
outside of the elongated base to the hollow interior space creates
at least one flap in the elongated base.
[0057] In one form, the present disclosure provides an electric
deterrent device, wherein the electric deterrent device comprises
an elongated base having a hollow interior space forming a top
inside surface and a bottom inside surface, a first conductive
element coupled to an outside of the elongated base that extends
through to the top inside surface, a second conductive element
coupled to an outside of the elongated base that extends through to
the top inside surface.
[0058] In one form, the present disclosure provides a method of
installing an electric deterrent device, comprising the steps of
applying an adhesive between a bottom layer of the electric
deterrent device and an external surface; and pressing the electric
deterrent device towards the external surface such that an anchor
of the electric deterrent device is pressed into the adhesive;
wherein the electric deterrent device comprises an elongated base
having a cross section including a top layer with a top surface and
a bottom surface, and the bottom layer, a first conductive element
extending perpendicular to the cross section along the top surface
of the top layer, wherein the first conductive element is molded to
the top surface at a first connection point and extends from the
top surface of the top layer to a second connection point on the
bottom surface of the top layer, and the anchor protruding down
from the bottom surface of the top layer, wherein the bottom layer
insulates the first conductive element at the second connection
point from an exterior.
[0059] In some embodiments, the pressing step further comprises
pressing the electric deterrent device towards the external surface
such that the adhesive pushes a flap on a side of the anchor
upwards as the electric deterrent device is pressed into the
adhesive. In another embodiment, the adhesive enters a space
between the anchor and the flap as the electric deterrent device is
pressed towards the external surface. In another embodiment, the
adhesive is squeezed in a direction away from the anchor during the
pressing step. In yet another embodiment, a portion of the anchor
proximate to its bottom is thicker than a portion of the anchor
further from its bottom. In certain embodiments, the anchor is an
inverted T shape. In another embodiment, the anchor further
comprises a ridge wherein the adhesive is disposed on a top surface
of the ridge after the pressing step. In yet another embodiment,
the first conductive element and a second conductive element
coupled to the top surface of the top layer are attachable
respectively to the positive and negative terminals of a power
source.
[0060] In one form, the present disclosure provides a method of
installing an electric deterrent device, comprising the steps of
applying an adhesive between a bottom layer of the electric
deterrent device and an external surface; and pressing the electric
deterrent device towards the external surface such that an anchor
of the electric deterrent device is pressed into the adhesive;
wherein the electric deterrent device comprises an elongated base
having a hollow interior space forming a top inside surface and a
bottom inside surface, a first conductive element coupled to an
outside of the elongated base that extends through to the top
inside surface, a second conductive element coupled to an outside
of the elongated base that extends through to the top inside
surface, and the anchor protruding down from the top inside
surface.
[0061] In one form, the present disclosure provides a process for
producing an electric deterrent device, the process comprising the
steps of forming an elongated base having a cross section including
a top layer with a top surface and a bottom surface, and a bottom
layer; cutting the elongated base to create a first slit, where the
first slit is positioned such that it creates a flap; folding the
flap to obtain access to the bottom side of the top layer; and
molding a first conductive element to the top side of the top
layer, such that the first conductive element extends from the top
side of the top layer to the bottom side of the top layer.
[0062] In another embodiment, the process further comprises the
step of sealing the first slit. In another embodiment, the first
slit is sealed with an adhesive. In yet another embodiment, the
cutting step is performed by a first blade creating the first slit;
and a second blade creating a second slit. In another embodiment,
the first slit and the second slit are made at the same time. In
yet another embodiment, the first blade is parallel to the second
blade. In another embodiment, the first blade and the second blade
are angled towards each other.
[0063] In some embodiments, the forming step is performed by
extruding the elongated base. In another embodiment, the first slit
is cut in the bottom layer. In another embodiment, the first slit
is cut in the top layer.
[0064] In one form, the present disclosure provides a process for
producing an electric deterrent device, the process comprising the
steps of forming a top layer of an elongated base, wherein the top
layer has a bottom side and a top side; forming a bottom layer of
an elongated base; molding a first conductive element to the top
side of the top layer at a first connection point, such that the
first conductive element extends from the top side of the top layer
to a second connection point on the bottom side of the top layer;
and coupling the bottom layer to the bottom side of the top layer.
In another embodiment, the bottom layer insulates the first
conductive element at the second connection point from an exterior.
In yet another embodiment, the bottom layer is coupled to the top
layer by an adhesive. In another embodiment, the bottom layer is
coupled to the top layer by stitching. In some embodiments, the
forming steps are performed by extrusion.
[0065] In one form, the present disclosure provides an electric
deterrent device, comprising an elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip; a first elongated flexible electrically
conductive element molded into the elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip; a second elongated flexible electrically
conductive element molded into the elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip; wherein the first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element is molded into the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip such that the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element is at least
partially embedded in the elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip, and at least another portion of the
first elongated flexible electrically conductive element is
disposed on the exterior of the elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip; wherein the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip further comprises at least
one void extending along the length of the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip. In some embodiments, the
elongated flexible electrically non-conductive base strip does not
contain a void.
[0066] In some embodiments, the first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element is a conductive polymer. In other
embodiments, the first elongated flexible electrically conductive
element comprises a shape selected from the group of an undulating
shape, a sinusoidal shape, a zigzag shape, a curved shape, a jagged
or ridged shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, a box step
shape, a shape where the peaks are substantially flat relative to
the top of the base strip, or any combination thereof.
[0067] In one form, the present disclosure provides an electric
deterrent device, comprising an elongated flexible electrically
non-conductive base strip; a first elongated flexible electrically
conductive element co-extruded with the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip; a second elongated flexible
electrically conductive element co-extruded with the elongated
flexible electrically non-conductive base strip; wherein the first
elongated flexible electrically conductive element is co-extruded
with the elongated flexible electrically non-conductive base strip
such that the first elongated flexible electrically conductive
element is at least partially embedded in the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip, and at least another
portion of the first elongated flexible electrically conductive
element is disposed on the exterior of the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip; wherein the first elongated
flexible electrically conductive element is at least partially
comprised of a conductive polymer.
[0068] In some embodiments, the first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element is at least partially comprised of
a metal. In other embodiments, the first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element is at least partially coated by a
conductive polymer. In some embodiments, a metal portion of the
first elongated flexible electrically conductive element is coupled
to a conductive polymer portion of the first elongated flexible
electrically conductive element. In some embodiments, at least part
of the metal portion of the first elongated flexible electrically
conductive element is embedded into the elongated flexible
electrically non-conductive base strip. In other embodiments, at
least part of the conductive polymer portion of the first elongated
flexible electrically conductive element is embedded into the
elongated flexible electrically non-conductive base strip. In some
embodiments, the conductive polymer portion of the first elongated
flexible electrically conductive element is not embedded into the
elongated flexible electrically non-conductive base strip. In some
embodiments, the first elongated flexible electrically conductive
element comprises a shape selected from the group of an undulating
shape, a sinusoidal shape, a zigzag shape, a curved shape, a jagged
or ridged shape, a square shape, a rectangular shape, a box step
shape, a shape where the peaks are substantially flat relative to
the top of the base strip, or any combination thereof. In other
embodiments, the elongated flexible electrically non-conductive
base strip further comprises at least one void extending along the
length of the elongated flexible electrically non-conductive base
strip.
[0069] These and other objects, features, aspects, and advantages
of the present patent document will become better understood with
reference to the following description and accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0070] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one preferred
embodiment of the present patent document.
[0071] FIG. 2 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of one
embodiment of the preferred electric deterrent device of FIG.
1.
[0072] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of a
preferred electric deterrent device of FIG. 1, where the conductive
element is a wave or undulating shape with peaks and valleys.
[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment
of an electric deterrent device of the present patent document,
where the conductive element is a square wave shape with flat
topped peaks and flat bottomed valleys.
[0074] FIG. 5 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document, where the elongated base comprises a void,
into which the conductive elements extend.
[0075] FIG. 6 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document, where the elongated base comprises a void,
into which the conductive elements do not extend.
[0076] FIG. 7 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document, where the elongated base comprises a gap,
into which the conductive elements extend, and a slit in the bottom
layer creating a flap.
[0077] FIG. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of an electric
deterrent device of the present patent document, where the electric
deterrent device of FIG. 8 has a slit that separates the bottom
layer from the top layer.
[0078] FIG. 9 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document, where the electric deterrent device shown
in FIG. 9 has a void and gaps, where the conductive elements extend
into the gaps.
[0079] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross section of one embodiment of an
electric deterrent device with portions of the bottom layer in a
position bent outward from the device.
[0080] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another embodiment of an electric
deterrent device of the present patent document, where the bottom
layer has ridges to increase the bottom surface area of the
elongated base.
[0081] FIG. 12 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document, where the elongated base further comprises
protrusions of the flaps that help to isolate the conductive
elements at the second connection point from an exterior by
interlocking into openings.
[0082] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment
of an electric deterrent device of the present patent document,
where the conductive element is a shape with curved repeating peaks
and valleys where the peaks extend substantially longer along the
length of the conductive element than the valleys.
[0083] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment
of an electric deterrent device of the present patent document,
where the conductive element is a shape with flat topped peaks, and
portions between the peaks that are configured to minimize the
distance between peaks.
[0084] FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a wire
bent by hand and placed flat on its side to show the undulating
shape of the conductive element.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0085] Reference will now be made to the drawings in which the
various elements of the present disclosure will be given numerical
designations and in which the present disclosure will be discussed
so as to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the present
disclosure. It is to be understood that the following description
is only exemplary of the principles of the present disclosure, and
should not be viewed as narrowing the claims. Additionally, it
should be appreciated that the components of the individual
embodiments discussed may be selectively combined in accordance
with the teachings of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it
should be appreciated that various embodiments will accomplish
different objects of the present disclosure, and that some
embodiments falling within the scope of the present disclosure may
not accomplish all of the advantages or objects which other
embodiments may achieve.
[0086] In some embodiments of the electric deterrent device, the
conductive elements 130a and 130b are braided, such as the braided
elements described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,481,021 titled "ELECTRIC
DETERRENT DEVICE" which is herein incorporated by reference in its
entirety, but they may also be knitted, mesh, interlocking loops,
wires, rods, tubes, sheets, or other configurations. In some
embodiments the conductive elements 130a and 130b may be conductive
strips, wires, tubes, or sheets with no free spaces within. In some
embodiments, the conductive elements 130a and 130b may contain free
spaces within the conductive elements.
[0087] In some embodiments containing flaps, the flaps 112a and
112b are as described in U.S. patent application Ser. Nos.
13/533,846, 13/533,903, 13/533,923, and 13/774,241 all of which are
titled "ANIMAL DETERRENT DEVICE WITH INSULATED FASTENERS" and all
of which are herein incorporated by reference in their
entirety.
[0088] In some embodiments containing at least one void, the voids
are as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/816,122, titled "ELECTRIC DETERRENT DEVICE WITH VOIDS AND FLAPS"
which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0089] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred
embodiment of the present patent document. In a preferred
embodiment, the electric deterrent device includes an elongated
base 110 and a pair of conductive elements 130a and 130b molded to
the base. In various embodiments, the elongated base 110 may be a
variety of different shapes. It should be understood that only
those specific elements of the shape of the elongated base 110
described in the claims limit the embodiments claimed.
[0090] In FIG. 1, the peaks extending along each side of the base
110 are the conductive elements 130a and 130b. In some embodiments,
the conductive elements 130a and 130b are molded to the base during
a co-extrusion process.
[0091] In a preferred embodiment, base is made of extruded of
flexible PVC. In the manufacturing process using extrusion other
items or elements can be run with the extrusion of the elongated
base, such as different types of plastics or even metals; this
process is called co-extrusion. In one method of manufacturing the
device, the process features a pre-bent zigzag wire that is pressed
vertically into the still molten plastic.
[0092] In one embodiment, one thin strand of stainless steel wire
(about 0.020 inches in diameter) is pre formed into a zigzag
pattern. In the picture of FIG. 15 for example, this hand-formed
sample is a crude rendition of what a machine can make. A machine
manufactured wire preferably has a uniform shape of repeating
waves.
[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the wire may be pre-formed on a
machine, and then rolled up on a roll in lengths, preferably of
1,000-feet. In other embodiments, the rolls of wire may be of any
length. The bent wire lays flat on a surface (as shown in the
attached photograph of FIG. 15). When rolled up, the wire rolls up
flat, like a ribbon, so that it will come off the roll without
becoming tangled.
[0094] In some preferred methods of manufacturing the device, two
rolls of the zigzag wire will feed into the extrusion machine
(either directly into the extrusion tool, or immediately after it).
The ribbon of wire is articulated perpendicular to the plastic base
and is pressed into the plastic as it feeds through a track. The
result is that the bottom half of the zigzag wire is buried into
the plastic, while the top half is exposed above the surface of the
plastic. For example, all that is seen above the surface of the
plastic are the bumps sticking up, the bumps facing downwards are
under the surface of the plastic and are not seen, as shown for
example in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3.
[0095] The elongated base 110 comprises a bottom surface that may
be attached to the exterior surface of the location from which the
pests or birds are to be deterred. The elongated base 110 comprises
a top surface. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the conductive
elements 130a and 130b are separated by an arc suppressor 140. In
this embodiment, the shape of the elongated base is an elongated
extrusion with a substantially flat top surface and bottom surface,
but any shape of the elongated base 110 may be used. The elongated
base 110 may also be referred to herein as a base, as an elongated
extrusion, or as an extrusion. In some embodiments, the elongated
base 110 may either be made from a conductive element, or contain a
conductive element. The electric deterrent device may be attached
to the surface of the location from which the pests or birds are to
be deterred by many different methods, including but not limited to
staples, adhesive, nails, pins, tacs, adhesive, screws, nuts and
bolts, or a combination thereof, as well as many others. In a
preferred embodiment, glue is applied along the center of the
bottom of elongated base 110 as a strip or bead in the axial
direction. In another embodiment, the glue is applied
intermittently along the center of the bottom of the elongated base
110. The device may have angled or sloped portions 118a and 118b on
its top surface so that in the case of rain or water or other
liquid, the liquid will run away down the sloping sides, and will
not collect on or about the conductive elements. The elongated base
110 may be made by extrusion, casting thermoforming, molding, or by
any other method.
[0096] FIG. 2 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of one
embodiment of a preferred electric deterrent device 100 of FIG.
1.
[0097] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of one embodiment of a
preferred electric deterrent device 100 of FIG. 1. In FIG. 3, the
conductive element 130a is a wave or undulating shape with peaks
and valleys. In FIG. 3, the peaks are shown above the surface of
the device 100, and the valleys are shown as dotted lines below the
surface or within the device 100, showing that the conductive
elements are molded to the base 110. In some embodiments, the
conductive elements may extend higher than the arc suppressor, as
shown by non-limiting example in FIG. 3.
[0098] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment
of an electric deterrent device of the present patent document. In
the embodiment of electric deterrent device 400 shown in FIG. 4,
the conductive element 130a is a square wave shape with flat topped
peaks and flat bottomed valleys. In FIG. 4, the peaks are shown
above the surface of the device 100, and the valleys are shown as
dotted lines below the surface or within the device 100, showing
that the conductive elements are molded to the base 110. In some
embodiments, the arc suppressor may extend higher than the
conductive elements, as shown by non-limiting example in FIG.
4.
[0099] FIG. 5 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document. In the embodiment of electric deterrent
device 500 shown in FIG. 5, the elongated base 110 comprises a void
123, into which the conductive elements 130a and 130b extend.
[0100] FIG. 6 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document. In the embodiment of electric deterrent
device 600 shown in FIG. 6, the elongated base 110 comprises a void
123, into which the conductive elements 130a and 130b do not
extend.
[0101] FIG. 7 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document. In the embodiment of electric deterrent
device 700 shown in FIG. 7, the elongated base 110 comprises a gap
222, into which the conductive elements 130a and 130b extend, and a
slit 230 in the bottom layer creating a flap 112. In some
embodiments, the slit 230 may be located proximate to an edge
250.
[0102] FIG. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of an electric
deterrent device of the present patent document. The embodiment of
electric deterrent device 800 of FIG. 8 has a slit 226 that
separates the bottom layer 112 from the top layer 114. In the
embodiment of FIG. 8, the elongated base 110 further comprises a
slit 226 between the first non-conductive piece, the top 114, and
the second non-conductive piece, the bottom layer 112, where the
two non-conductive pieces are coupled to insulate the bottoms of
conductive elements 130a and 130b from the exterior. The slit 226
may also be called a gap. The slit 226 may be any width separating
the top layer 114 from the bottom layer 112. The slit 226 may be a
gap of any width. The slit 226 may be any shape. The embodiment of
FIG. 12 also shows a void 123 in the top layer 114. In the
embodiment of FIG. 12, the bottom layer 112 has channels 223a and
223b in the upper surface of the bottom layer 112 to accommodate
the bottoms of the conductive elements 130a and 130b that may
extend through the top layer 114.
[0103] FIG. 9 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document. In the embodiment of electric deterrent
device 900 shown in FIG. 9, the elongated base 110 has gaps 220a
and 220b into which the conductive elements 130a and 130b extend,
and slits 230a and 230b in the bottom layer creating flaps 112a and
112b. The embodiment of FIG. 9 also has a glue anchor 240. In FIG.
9, the flaps 112a and 112b insulates the conductive elements 130a
and 130b at their second connection point from water, moisture, or
bird excrement that may pool at the bottom of the device. The top
layer 114 has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface
of the top layer 114 may be referred to as a top side. The bottom
surface of the top layer 114 may be referred to as a bottom side.
The bottom layer 112 has a top surface and a bottom surface. The
top surface of the bottom layer 112 may also be referred to as a
top side. The bottom surface of the bottom layer 112 may also be
referred to as a bottom side.
[0104] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross section of one embodiment of the
electric deterrent device 1000 with portions of the bottom layer
112 in a position bent outward from the device. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 10, the edges of the gaps 220a and 220b are made of a
material flexible enough to allow a portion of the bottom layer 112
to be bent outward enough to expose the inside of the top layer 114
of the elongated base 110. The portions of the bottom layer 112 of
the elongated base 110 that are bent outward in FIG. 10 are flaps
112a and 112b.
[0105] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another embodiment of an electric
deterrent device of the present patent document. In electric
deterrent device 1100 of FIG. 11 the bottom layer 112 has ridges
213 to increase the bottom surface area of the elongated base 110.
In FIG. 11 a surface area of the bottom surface of the bottom layer
112 is increased over a substantial portion of the bottom surface
of the bottom layer. In some embodiments, the ridges 213 preferably
extend axially along the length of the elongated base 110. An
adhesive may be applied between the ridged bottom surface of the
bottom layer 112 and an exterior surface, such that the glue has a
greater surface area to adhere to on the elongated base 110, than
if there were a flat base as in some of the other embodiments shown
herein. In some embodiments, though the ridges 213 increase the
surface area of the bottom surface of the bottom layer 112, the
ridges 213 should be small enough so that the adhesive used is the
minimal amount necessary for maximum adhesion or bonding strength
to the exterior surface. As shown in FIG. 11, the ridges 213 cover
a substantial portion of the cross-sectional width of the bottom
surface of the bottom layer 112. In some embodiments, any number of
ridges may be used. The electric deterrent device of FIG. 11 is
shown with rectangular ridges 213, but rounded, angled, jagged, or
other shapes may be used as long as they increase the surface area
of the bottom layer 112. In some embodiments, the ridged pattern
may be repeatable shapes. In other embodiments, the bottom surface
may have non-repeating shapes. The ridged bottom surface may also
be referred to as jagged or toothed. In other embodiments, the
bottom surface may be corrugated or ribbed. In the embodiment of
electric deterrent device 1100 shown in FIG. 11, the elongated base
110 further comprises protrusions 127 of the flaps 112a and 112b
that help to isolate the conductive elements at the second
connection point from an exterior.
[0106] FIG. 12 illustrates a vertical cross sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of an electric deterrent device of the
present patent document. In the embodiment of electric deterrent
device 1200 shown in FIG. 12, the elongated base 110 further
comprises protrusions 126a of the flaps 112a and 112b that help to
isolate the conductive elements at the second connection point from
an exterior by interlocking into openings 126b. The protrusions
126a and openings 126b may be any interlocking or interconnecting
shapes. In some embodiments, the protrusions 126a and openings 126b
do not have to be the same shape, so long as protrusion 126a fits
within opening 126b. In FIG. 12, protrusions 126a are a ball with
stem shape. The protrusions may be other shapes, such as
arrowheads, T-shapes, or other male and female paired shapes, or
other interlocking shapes. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the
conductive elements 130a and 130b extend into and through voids 124
and through top layer 114.
[0107] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment
of an electric deterrent device of the present patent document. In
FIG. 13, the conductive element 130a is a shape with curved
repeating peaks and valleys where the peaks extend substantially
longer along the length of the conductive element than the valleys.
In other embodiments, the valleys may be of greater length than the
peaks. In FIG. 13, the peaks are shown above the surface of the
device 100, and the valleys are shown as dotted lines below the
surface or within the device 100, showing that the conductive
elements are embedded into the base 110. In other embodiments, the
conductive elements may extend higher from the surface of the base
than the arc suppressor 140.
[0108] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment
of an electric deterrent device of the present patent document. In
the embodiment of electric deterrent device 1400 shown in FIG. 14,
the conductive element 130a is a shape with flat topped peaks, and
portions between the peaks that are configured to minimize the
distance between peaks. In some embodiments, the portions between
the peaks are bent or twisted to minimize the distance between
peaks. In some embodiments there is no distance between peaks. In
some embodiments, the portions of the conductive element that are
embedded into the base are separate wire pieces or other material
that is embedded into the base to couple the conductive element to
the base. In some embodiments the material embedded into the base
may be a fastener such as a clamp, thread, staples, stitching,
screws, tacs, pins, nails, wire, or other devices. In some
embodiments, the fastener may be made of a polymer, plastic, metal,
vinyl, nylon, para-aramid synthetic fiber (such as Kevlar.RTM.),
polyester, ceramic, wood, cotton, wool, glue, or any other suitable
material. In FIG. 14, the peaks are shown above the surface of the
device 100, and the portions of the conductive element or other
material shown as dotted lines are below the surface or within the
device 100. In some embodiments, the arc suppressor may extend
higher than the conductive elements.
[0109] FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a wire
bent by hand and placed flat on its side to show the undulating
shape of the conductive element. In a preferred embodiment, the
undulating shape of the conductive element is a wave formation with
alternating peaks and valleys repeating along a length of the
conductive element.
[0110] In some embodiments, the conductive elements may be
intrinsically conducting polymers, such as for example,
polyacetylene, polypyrrole, polyaniline, or their copolymers. The
conductive polymer may either be used as the conductive element or
to partially or completely surround the conductive element to
provide protection against environmental elements such as water or
bird excrement. In some embodiments, the conductive polymer may be
co-molded or co-extruded with the elongated base 110 such that the
conductive polymer is at least partially embedded in the elongated
base 110, and at least another portion of the conductive polymer is
disposed on the exterior of the elongated base 110.
[0111] In some embodiments, the device may further contain a void
123. In other embodiments the device may contain a plurality of
voids 124. In some embodiments, a void may extend along the length
of the elongated base in the axial direction. In other embodiments,
a void 123 may divided into multiple voids by being either
substantially or completely closed off at certain points, such as
by the non-conductive material of the elongated base during
manufacturing of the base, or by for example, a clamp, screw, nail,
or weight placed on the device, possibly during use. In some
embodiments, a void may be any size and shape. In some embodiments,
a void may be as thin as a slit. In some embodiments, a void may be
open at the axial ends of the elongated base. In other embodiments,
a void may be closed at the axial ends of the elongated base. In
some embodiments, a plurality of voids may extend perpendicular to
the cross section of the elongated base. In some embodiments, voids
may be entirely enclosed within the base. In other embodiments,
voids may be partially enclosed within the base. In some
embodiments, voids may connect to other voids. In some embodiments,
the conductive elements may penetrate the voids. In other
embodiments, the conductive elements do not penetrate any void 123
or voids 124. In some embodiments, the voids may be sealed off from
an exterior. In some embodiments, the voids may be sealed by any
means, including, but not limited to, by gluing, clamping,
heat-melting, or any other method. A void 123 or a plurality of
voids 124 may have benefits that include reducing the material used
in the manufacturing of the elongated base of the device, thereby
reducing cost and weight. The addition of a void 123 or voids 124
in the base may also increase flexibility of the device.
[0112] In some embodiments, a material may be added to the void 123
or the voids 124 to help maintain the shape of the device. In some
embodiments, at least a portion of a void may include a low-density
material, such as a foam or aerogel. In some embodiments where the
conductive elements 130a and 130b penetrate a void, a material can
be added to the void, such as an adhesive, a foam, or an aerogel,
to further help prevent water, moisture, or bird excrement from
contacting the bottom of the conductive elements.
[0113] The dimensions of a preferred embodiment will now be
recited. These dimensions represent the dimensions of one preferred
embodiment by way of example, and other embodiments may have other
dimensions. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated base 110 is
approximately 1.5 inches wide and approximately 0.35 inches
high.
[0114] Any dimensions cited are by way of illustration only. The
dimensions may be varied in any fashion as appropriate to the
application. As just one example, the dimensions may be varied to
accommodate different size birds or other pests. Also, the length
of the electric deterrent device 100 segment as illustrated is
relatively short. However, the elongated base 110 may be
constructed in any length, and is preferably constructed in as long
a length as feasible so as to avoid inter-connecting segments of
the electric deterrent device 100. For example, in one embodiment,
the electric deterrent device 100 may be 50 feet long. In other
embodiments, the electric deterrent device may be any length.
However, inter-connecting segments of the electric deterrent device
to form an elongated base of greater length than any individual
segment may be used as well. In a preferred embodiment, the
electric deterrent device 100 may be curved without harming its
performance or life-expectancy. Accordingly, it may be rolled for
shipment and storage, thus allowing for much longer single-formed
pieces.
[0115] The electric deterrent device may include a center divider
240. The center divider 240 helps to prevent unwanted short
circuiting, particularly in some embodiments where the axial ends
of the electric deterrent device are left open or where water or
other material that may cause a short circuit enters a gap. In
other embodiments, a divider may be in other locations besides the
center of the cross section. In other embodiments, no center
divider 240 may be included, resulting in a single gap 222.
[0116] In some embodiments, the center divider 240 may be referred
to as an anchor. The anchor may also be referred to as a glue
anchor, a glue lock, or glue spine. In some embodiments, the anchor
may further comprise an area proximate to its bottom that has a
greater width than other locations along its length. In some
embodiments, the center divider 240 may be an inverted T-shape. The
inverted T-shape operates as an anchor, creating a greater surface
area for an adhesive to grip. In one embodiment, the anchor may be
embedded into the adhesive. In another embodiment, the anchor
further comprises a ridge wherein the adhesive is disposed on a top
surface of the ridge after the pressing step. In one embodiment,
during installation, the anchor embeds itself into the adhesive,
and when the electric deterrent device is pressed toward an
exterior surface, the remaining adhesive works its way towards the
edges of the electric deterrent device, ensuring a tight grip. The
adhesive may be applied to the bottom layer 112, or to the external
surface. In a preferred embodiment, where the anchor is located in
the center of the electric deterrent device, the adhesive may be
applied to the center of the electric deterrent device. In some
embodiments, the adhesive may be applied to other portions of the
bottom of the device, such as in a zigzag pattern covering portions
of the center and portions of areas under the flaps, or in patches
along the axial length of the bottom of the device. In some
embodiments, the adhesive may be glue. In some embodiments, the
anchor may be located in the center of the electric deterrent
device. In one embodiment, the anchor may have an upward facing
surface substantially parallel to the bottom layer 112. In another
embodiment, the anchor may be a shape with an upward facing surface
that is angled. The anchor may be any shape such that the anchor
has a greater surface area such that an adhesive can adhere to.
[0117] The electric deterrent device is preferably attached to the
surface of the edge of the building or place where the pests or
birds are to be deterred. Attachment may be by any mechanical means
such as screw, bolts, staples, nails, an adhesive such as glue, or
any other attachment means, or any combination. The elongated base
110 may be of any shape and size as dictated by the specific size
and type of animal, bird or pest to be deterred, and the area to
which the electric deterrent device is to be installed, so long as
the two electrically conductive elements 130a and 130b are kept a
sufficient distance apart so as to prevent unwanted short
circuiting, and are not so far apart at to not be short-circuited
when the intended-to-be deterred animal, pest or bird contacts the
electric deterrent device. The elongated base 110 may be
constructed of any material so long as there is sufficient
non-conductive material immediately adjacent the conductive
elements 130a and 130b so as to prevent unwanted short circuiting.
In a preferred embodiment, the entire elongated base 110 is made of
a single material, in this case extruded polyvinyl chloride that is
extremely flexible, durable and UV resistant. The elongated base
110 may be constructed of any color so as to blend with the
structure to which it will ultimately be attached. It is not
necessary that the elongated base 110 be of unitary material and
construction. In some embodiments, cellular, flex or rigid
polyvinyl chloride may be used as a material for construction of
the elongated base 110. In other embodiments, other possible
materials for construction of the elongated base 110 may include,
but are not limited to, neoprene, fluoroelastomer (available
commercially under trademarks Vitron.RTM. and Flourel 8), silicone,
natural rubber, buna N (nitrile), buna S (SBR), thermoplastic
rubber, synthetic polyisoprene, EPDM and polyurethane.
[0118] Also, while stainless steel is preferred for the conductive
elements, iron, steel, copper, and zinc plated copper are just some
examples of many other conductive materials that could be
substituted.
[0119] In some embodiments, the ends of conductive elements 130a
and 130b are attached to the terminals of a conventional power
source (not shown). In other embodiments, the conductive elements
130a and 130b may be attached to the terminals of a conventional
power source at locations other than at the ends of the conductive
elements 130a and 130b through the use of clamps, clips, inserts or
other similar ways of connecting conductive elements to a power
source. A charge of approximately 800 volts alternating current, at
low ampere (10 mA) or 7.5 KV, 3 amp direct current, has proven
effective to deter birds. Larger voltages and amperes may be
necessary for larger animals. If the desire was to execute the pest
rather than simply deter, then the voltages and amperes would have
to be increased accordingly, and the current bearing
characteristics of the conductive elements 130a and 130b would have
to be adjusted accordingly as well.
[0120] In some embodiments, multiple devices 100 may be placed in a
parallel or substantially parallel configuration. In some
embodiments, devices 100 placed in parallel configurations may be
connected to each other. In some embodiments, devices 100 may be
connected to each other by connectors contacting one or more of the
conductive elements 130a and 130b. For example, in some
embodiments, the conductive element 130a of one device 100, may be
connected to the conductive element 130a of a second device 100. In
some embodiments, the ends of one device 100 may be connected to a
power source, while a second device 100 may be connected to the
power source through a connector between the conductive elements of
each device 100.
[0121] Although the embodiments have been described with reference
to the drawings and specific examples, it will readily be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that many modifications and
adaptations of the apparatuses and processes described herein are
possible without departure from the spirit and scope of the
embodiments as claimed hereinafter. Thus, it is to be clearly
understood that this description is made only by way of example and
not as a limitation on the scope of the embodiments as claimed
below.
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