Device for catching animals with self-resetting tilting element

Abstract

Device for catching reptiles or small animals, comprising an access channel (10) with an inlet opening (12) and an outlet opening (13) leading to the collection room (30), a collection chamber (30) connected to the access channel (10) for receiving captured animals, and a tilting element (20) arranged in the access channel (10), which is pivotably mounted about a tilting axis (21), characterized by the fact that the tilting element (20) has a mass distribution or center of gravity position asymmetrical relative to the tilting axis (21), which generates an automatic restoring moment in the unloaded state, which automatically returns the tilting element (20) to a basic position.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a mechanical device for catching animals, in particular reptiles such as snails, but also small animals.

[0002] The device comprises an access channel (10) and a collection chamber (30) connected thereto, into which animals can enter after actuation of a movable element of the device.

[0003] The invention relates in particular to mechanical catching devices with a movable catching mechanism which, after being triggered by an animal, automatically returns to a basic position so that the device is ready for further catching operations.

[0004] Such devices can be used particularly outdoors, for example in gardens, agricultural areas or greenhouses. State of the art

[0005] Various mechanical animal traps are known in the prior art, including self-resetting traps for repeatedly catching animals. These typically exhibit the design features described below.

[0006] In known traps, tilting platforms or floor plates are frequently used as the triggering mechanism. The animal steps onto the platform, which then tilts or pivots, allowing the animal to enter a capture chamber. After capture, the platform must return to its starting position to be ready for another capture. The principles described below are typically used as the reset mechanism in known traps.

[0007] Known traps use counterweights on entrance doors or flaps, which are mechanically coupled to a tilting platform via rods, levers, or cables. The weights are often attached externally to the housing or to separate door elements and generate a restoring force via the respective lever arrangement.

[0008] Furthermore, magnetic holding mechanisms are known in which a permanent magnet holds a running surface or flap in position. After triggering by the animal's weight, the magnetic connection is broken and a separate return mechanism, for example a counterweight or a spring, returns the trap to its starting position.

[0009] Furthermore, spring elements are known, in particular coil, leaf, or tension springs, which are pre-tensioned and return to their original position after release. Spring-based systems may require adjustment, are subject to material fatigue, and can be affected by corrosion, especially in outdoor applications.

[0010] Furthermore, locking mechanisms and latches are known that use spring-loaded latches, pawls or locking teeth to hold movable elements in defined positions and release them in a controlled manner.

[0011] Many known solutions use additional stored energy elements (e.g., springs, magnets) or multi-part mechanical couplings (e.g., rods, cables, or lever systems between doors, platforms, and counterweights). These couplings can increase complexity and lead to a greater number of moving parts, increased wear, and more adjustment effort.

[0012] In known traps, a one-way function and a backstop are typically implemented by separate door mechanisms, flap systems, or trailing locking elements that are mechanically or temporally decoupled from the main trapping mechanism. Direct integration of the one-way locking action into the resetting element itself, so that a single component handles both the resetting and backstop functions, is not common in known traps.

[0013] Specific requirements for reptiles (especially snails): Snails move slowly, are light (typically 2-10 g), are sensitive to mechanical barriers, and require relatively small access paths. Known traps are predominantly designed for larger and heavier animals (e.g., rodents). Adapting to very low trigger forces while maintaining reliable reset without springs or magnets is not common in existing traps.

[0014] Despite the numerous known mechanical animal traps, there remains a need for a device with a simple mechanical design that allows for repeated trapping of animals while operating reliably and requiring minimal maintenance. In particular, there is a need for a device suitable even for very light animals, combining a one-way guide leading to a collection chamber with an automatic reset of a moving element, without the need for complex mechanical couplings or delicate reset mechanisms. Object of the invention

[0015] The invention is based on the objective of providing a mechanical device for catching animals, in particular reptiles such as snails and optionally small animals, which enables a reliable, low-maintenance and repeatable catching process.

[0016] One objective of the invention is to provide a reliable one-way access effect whereby an animal can enter a collection chamber (30), while a return to the access channel (10) is constructively prevented or significantly made more difficult.

[0017] Another objective of the invention is to provide an automatic reset mechanism whereby the device automatically returns to its home position after being actuated by an animal, without manual intervention, so that it is ready for further catching operations.

[0018] A further objective of the invention is to provide a device with the simplest possible mechanical design. The device should require as few moving parts as possible and should not involve complex, multi-part couplings (for example, rods, cables, or lever systems).

[0019] Another goal is to enable adaptability to different animal sizes and weights, especially for very light animals such as snails, but also for heavier small animals.

[0020] Another goal is to provide a robust and low-maintenance device that is suitable for continuous outdoor use and is as insensitive as possible to weather conditions.

[0021] Another goal is to provide a design that can be manufactured cost-effectively using common manufacturing processes.

[0022] Another essential aspect of the invention is to provide a catching device in which a release mechanism and a reset mechanism are integrated into a single movable element, so that the catching process and the reset can be implemented with minimal design effort and without complex coupling systems. Description of the invention

[0023] The problem is solved by a device with an access channel (10), a collection chamber (30) connected to the access channel (10) and a tilting element (20) arranged in the access channel (10) and freely pivotable about a tilting axis (21).

[0024] A key feature of the device is that a tilting element (20) has an asymmetric mass distribution relative to a tilting axis (21), so that in the unloaded state an automatic restoring torque is generated which, based on gravity, moves the tilting element (20) into a defined home position. The return to the starting position preferably occurs without the use of separate return mechanisms such as springs, magnets, or detents.

[0025] If an animal moves beyond the tipping axis (21) onto the rear section of the tipping element (20), the release section (24), the torque due to the animal's weight exceeds the restoring torque of the mass element (25). The tipping element (20) pivots into the release position, clearing the path to the collection container (32). After the animal leaves the tipping element (20), the torque changes again, and the tipping element (20) automatically pivots back to its home position, making the device available for another capture operation.

[0026] The asymmetric mass distribution can be generated both by different material distribution or additional mass elements (25) and by the geometric design of the tilting element (20) itself, in particular by different lever arms, wall thicknesses, curvatures or shapes relative to the tilting axis (21).

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the tilting element (20) simultaneously forms a track for the animal, a release mechanism, and a return element of the device. Due to the asymmetrical mass distribution, the tilting element (20) can automatically return to its home position after being unloaded, without the need for separate return mechanisms.

[0028] The asymmetric mass distribution can be an integral part of the tilting element (20) or can be realized by a mass element (25) connected to the tilting element (20).

[0029] The tilting element (20) can have different geometric configurations, in particular as a plate, rocker, ramp, shell, or similar pivotable component. Crucially, the tilting element (20) is pivotably mounted about a tilting axis (21) and generates an automatic restoring torque due to its asymmetric mass distribution. The geometric shape of the tilting element (20) is not limited to a specific design, as long as the described tilting function and the automatic restoring torque through asymmetric mass distribution are ensured.

[0030] Unlike known capture mechanisms with separate door, spring, or counterweight systems, the tilting element (20) of the present device integrates several functions into a single moving component. The tilting element (20) simultaneously forms a walking surface for the animal, a release mechanism for the capture process, and a return element for automatic return to the home position. This functional integration allows the device to be implemented with only a few moving components. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1: Overall perspective view of the device (1) with two access channels (10) and attached cover (11). The two entrance openings (12) of the access channels (10) are visible. In the left access channel (10), the tilting element (20) in its home position with the upwardly angled ramp section (23) can be seen. In the right access channel (10), the tilting element (20) is no longer visible, as it is in the release position. This provides a clear view of the creep barrier (here in the form of numerous spikes) and the underrun barrier (14) with its scent openings (50). The tilting axis (21) with the tilting axis bearing (22) is indicated. Fig. 2: how Fig. 1, but without the cover (11) in place. Here, the tilting element (20) in the release position can be seen in the right access channel (10), as well as the collection chamber (30). The backflow preventer (15) is also visible. Fig. 3 and Fig. 4: Longitudinal section through a device (1) with only one access channel (10). The Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 4 serves to illustrate the operating principle. In Fig. In Figure 3, the tilting element (20) is in its unloaded, home position. The release section (24) of the tilting element (20) is concealed on the collection chamber side by the backstop (15). Also visible in this embodiment is a mass element (25) located below the ramp section (23) of the tilting element (20), with an adjustment means (26) that is not visible due to the perspective. Furthermore, a collection container (32) with a bait area (33) and a ramp (34) can be seen in the right-hand area of ​​the device (1). Fig. 4 differs from Fig. 3 by the fact that the tilting element (20) is in the release position. Due to the weight of a screw on the release section (24) of the tilting element (20), the torque has exceeded the restoring torque of the mass element (25), so that the tilting element (20) pivots downwards into the release position and the path to the collection container (32) is opened. Fig. 5: Perspective top view of the device with two access channels (10) without cover (11). Fig. Figure 5 shows a tilting element (20) in the left access channel (10) in the home position and a tilting element (20) in the release position in the right access channel (10) with the underlying structures (dashed lines). Operating principle:

[0031] Basic position: In the unloaded state, the tilting element (20) is in a basic position in which it makes the access channel (10) accessible to an animal, but blocks the direct passage into the collection chamber (30) and from the collection chamber back to the tilting element (20).

[0032] Release position: When subjected to pressure from an animal (e.g. snail or mouse), the tilting element (20) pivots around the tilting axis (21) into a release position, thereby releasing access to the collection chamber (30).

[0033] Automatic reset: After the animal is released (in the collection chamber (30)), the tilting element (20) automatically returns to its home position due to the asymmetrical mass distribution. The device is thus automatically ready for another capture operation.

[0034] Blocking effect: The end of the tilting element (20) facing the collection chamber (30) is structurally shielded by a backstop (15) (e.g., by overlapping, lamellae, teeth, brush elements, or similar blocking structures), so that an animal cannot return from the collection chamber (30) through the access channel (10) and / or via the tilting element (20) into the access channel (10), or this is prevented or significantly impeded. In its home position, the end of the release section (24) of the tilting element (20) facing the collection chamber (30) disappears so far behind the backstop (15) that access to the tilting element (20) in this position is essentially impossible. The backstop (15) can be attached to the access channel (10) or to the inside of the cover (11).

[0035] Underrun barrier (14): A barrier structure (e.g., strip, wall, grid) is provided below the tipping axis (21) to prevent animals from bypassing or crawling under the tipping element (20). Even if an animal trapped in the collection chamber (30) were to attempt to escape through the access channel (10) below the tipping element (20) in its home position, this would be prevented by the underrun barrier (14).

[0036] Crawl barrier (16): In versions for reptiles, the access channel (10) can be equipped on all sides with crawl barriers (16) (e.g., spikes, needles, coatings, copper strips) so that reptiles are kept away from the ceiling, floor, and walls of the access channel (10) and guided in a controlled manner over the tilting element (20). These crawl barriers (16) are also intended to prevent trapped animals from attempting to crawl into the access channel (10) from the direction of the collection chamber (30) below the tilting element (20) when it is in its upright position, and potentially temporarily blocking the tilting element (20). Advantages over known solutions:

[0037] The asymmetrical mass distribution generates the restoring torque, eliminating the need for separate restoring mechanisms such as springs or magnets. This reduces the number of wear-prone components and avoids the need for adjusting spring tensions or magnetic forces.

[0038] The device has a simple mechanical design. The tilting element (20) is freely pivotable and requires no coupling rods, cables or multi-part release mechanisms.

[0039] The one-way function acts directly in the access channel (10). Unlike catch devices with separate door mechanisms, the locking effect is generated directly by the tilting element (20), thus enabling a compact design with few moving parts.

[0040] The device has only a few moving parts, which are arranged within the access channel (10) and are therefore largely protected from the elements. No electrical or magnetic components are required. This makes the device particularly suitable for use in damp outdoor environments.

[0041] By varying the mass distribution, for example by adjusting the size, position (adjustment) or material of the mass elements (25), the device can be adapted to different animal sizes and weights. Designs

[0042] The tipping element (20) can have a landing section (23) and a release section (24). The landing section (23) serves to allow the animal to reach the tipping element (20); the release section (24) opens the way into the collection chamber (30) after tipping. To avoid sharp edges, the ends of the tipping element (20) can be chamfered so that the landing section (23) in the initial position and the release section (24) in the release position lie flush with the ground.

[0043] The asymmetric mass distribution can be realized in different ways: Material reinforcements or bulges on one side of the tilting element (20), integrated or inserted mass elements (25) (for example, weights, inserts of denser material), different material densities (e.g. plastic on one side, metal on the other), geometric designs (e.g. extended lever arms, thicker wall thicknesses on one side of the tilting axis (21)).

[0044] The mobility of the tilting element (20) about the tilting axis (21) can be realized, for example, as follows: for example by an axle holder integrated into or attached to the tilting element (20), into which a continuous axle or two lateral axle pieces are inserted, which engage in corresponding bearing receptacles of the side walls of the access channel (10) or tilting axle bearings (22) inserted therein, by at least one bearing extension integrated in the tilting element (20) in the form of a nose, a pin, a cone or a protrusion which rotatably engages in a tilting axis bearing (22) or a recess in the side wall of the access channel (10), by means of bearings, bearing bushings or bearing openings integrated in the tilting element (20) which interact with corresponding pins, axles or bearing bolts on the side walls of the access channel (10).

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the mass distribution is adjustable, for example by: movable weights along a guide rail on the tilting element (20), interchangeable mass elements (25) of different size or density, Adjusting screws with weights that can be screwed into the tilting element (20).

[0046] This allows for adaptation to different animal species, animal weights and operating conditions.

[0047] The collection chamber (30) can include a removable collection container (32), which, for example, is designed as an insert and can be removed for emptying, or which includes a removable sieve. The collection container (32) can be filled with liquid (for example, attractant liquids such as beer) or used dry for live catching of small animals.

[0048] The device can have one or more access channels (10), each equipped with its own tilting element (20). This increases the capture capacity and allows multiple access points from different directions.

[0049] For designs intended for snails and slugs, the following features may be included in particular:

[0050] Suitable materials include, for example, plastic (UV-stable, weather-resistant), wood (natural, compostable), and metal (stainless steel, aluminum).

[0051] The walls of the access channel (10) can have mechanically formed structures and creep barriers (16) to guide the creep direction of the snails over the tilting element (20) and to make it difficult for them to creep back out of the collection chamber (30) into the access channel (10).

[0052] The access channel (10), cover (11), underflow barrier (14), backflow barrier (15) and tilting element (20) may have scent openings (50) to facilitate the targeted release of, for example, attractant scents.

[0053] The components can be designed to be moisture-resistant and intended for continuous outdoor use.

[0054] Removable or hinged lids or covers (11) may be provided to facilitate emptying and cleaning.

[0055] Suitable bearings (22), for example ball bearings, and tilting axes (21), for example made of stainless steel or carbon fiber, can be provided for low-friction mounting of the tilting element (20). Example of implementation (snail trap)

[0056] A specific embodiment of the invention is described below, designed specifically for catching snails (e.g., slugs, shelled snails). The embodiment described has two parallel access channels (10). This example serves for illustrative purposes and is not intended to be limiting. Geometric dimensions (example dimensions):

[0057] Dimensions of device (1) overall including cover (11) (W × D × H): approx. 165 mm × 330 mm × 87 mm.

[0058] Access channel dimensions (10): Outer width approx. 82 mm, inner width approx. 73 mm, outer height approx. 83 mm. Inner height approx. 80 mm, length approx. 160 mm.

[0059] Tilting element dimensions (20): Length approx. 160 mm, width approx. 71 mm (matching the inner width of the access channel (10) with a total clearance of approximately 2 mm), material thickness approx. 1-2 mm. A channel for the installation of a tilting axle (21) is integrated in the center. The material can be, for example, UV-stabilized polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE).

[0060] Dimensions of collection chamber (30): rectangular space, secured at the top by a cover (11) to prevent animals from escaping. Dimensions (W × D × H) including cover (11) approx. 165 mm × 165 mm × 87 mm.

[0061] Dimensions and function of the collection container (32): rectangular structure with a ramp (34) leading to the access channel (10) and a bait area (33). Overall dimensions including ramp (W × D × H) approx. 145 mm × 145 mm × 55 mm. Internal dimensions of the bait area (33) (W × D × H) approx. 138 mm × 90 mm × 50 mm. The collection container (32) is designed as an insert and can be filled with up to approx. 500 ml of liquid (e.g., attractant liquid) in the bait area (33). Liquid level in the bait area (33): up to approx. 40 mm. Individual elements:

[0062] Tilting axis (21): for example, carbon fiber rod or stainless steel rod with a diameter of approximately 1.5 mm.

[0063] The tilting axis (21) is guided through an axis channel incorporated into the tilting element (20). The ends of the tilting axis terminate in the tilting axis bearings (22) in the side walls of the access channel (10).

[0064] Tilting axis bearings (22) can, for example, be designed as miniature ball bearings (approx. 2 × 5 × 2 mm) which are inserted into receiving openings in the side walls of the access channel (10).

[0065] Mass element (25): Material reinforcement in the ramp section (23) of the tilting element (20) (here taken into account in the design of the tilting element (20) by means of structures reinforced on one side, thicker material or bulges). The ramp section (23) of the tilting element (20), which is, for example, 3-4 grams heavier, generates a torque sufficient for automatic reset.

[0066] Underrun barrier (14): A vertically oriented barrier structure is installed below the tilting axis (21) to prevent the underrun of the tilting element (20). The underrun barrier (14) can be equipped with scent openings (50) for improved and targeted dispersal of the bait scent.

[0067] Backflow preventer (15): Attached on the collection chamber side of the access channel (10) or on the inside of the cover (11).

[0068] Crawl barrier (16): on all sides of the access channel (10). Especially in versions for reptiles, the access channel (10) is equipped on all sides with crawl barriers (16), for example, pointed needles or pointed plastic spikes, which are formed in the manufacturing process as part of the shaping of the access channel (10). Detailed functionality of the exemplary embodiment:

[0069] Basic position: Due to the asymmetrical mass distribution, the tilting element (20) rests on the ground with the ramp section (23), while the release section (24) is raised and, in the illustrated embodiment, approximately horizontal in the access channel (10). In this embodiment, the tilting element (20) has an angle below the horizontal of approximately 25°–30° (other angles are also possible). The ramp section (23) of the tilting element (20) thus forms an easily accessible surface for the auger. Attractant vapors from the bait area (33) flow through gaps and scent openings (50) in a targeted manner towards the entrance opening (12) of the access channel (10).

[0070] Approach and entry: The snail is attracted from the bait area (33) by an attractant (e.g., beer or yeast aroma). It crawls through the entrance opening (12) into the access channel (10) and reaches the tipping element (20).

[0071] Triggering: As soon as the screw (typically weighing 3-8 g) moves beyond the tilting axis (21) and onto the rear section of the tilting element (20), the release section (24), the torque due to the weight of the screw exceeds the restoring torque of the mass element (25) at a certain point. The tilting element (20) pivots downwards into the release position (angle approximately 25°-30° below the horizontal).

[0072] Passage into the collection chamber (30): The snail crawls along the now descending tilting element (20) through the exit opening (13) into the collection chamber (30).

[0073] Reset: Immediately after the tilting element (20) is released and relieved of pressure, the mass element (25) returns the tilting element (20) to its home position. The tilting element (20) is now back in its home position, ready for another catch.

[0074] Backstop (15): Should the screw attempt to escape from the collection chamber (30) through the access channel (10) via the tilting element (20), access to the tilting element (20) in its upright position is blocked by the backstop (15).

[0075] Crawl barriers (16): Crawling back from the collection space (30) below the tipping element (20) through the access channel (10) is made more difficult by crawl barriers (16) on the floor and walls of the access channel (10).

[0076] Underrun barrier (14): Should a snail attempt to escape below the tipping element (20) through the access channel (10) despite creep barriers (16), this is prevented by an underrun barrier (14) installed below the tipping axis (21).

[0077] The snail remains in the collection chamber (30), where it is either retained by a liquid or can be removed by the user. Material selection and manufacturing technology of an exemplary design:

[0078] In an exemplary embodiment, the access channel (10) and cover (11), underflow barrier (14), tilting element (20), backflow preventer (15) as well as collection chamber (30), cover (11) and collection container (32) can be made of injection-molded, UV-stabilized plastic (PP, PE, ABS) or alternatively of (laser-)cut or milled wood.

[0079] The tilting axis (21) can, for example, be made of stainless steel wire (e.g. material 1.4301) or of carbon fiber rod.

[0080] The tilting axis bearings (22) can, for example, be designed as miniature ball bearings (e.g. 2 × 5 × 2 mm).

[0081] The mass element (25) can, for example, be designed as a material reinforcement formed in the tilting element (20) during the injection molding process. Adaptation to other animal sizes:

[0082] For heavier animals, the mass of the mass element (25) can be increased and the geometry of the access channel (10) adjusted accordingly.

[0083] For very small animals, the mass of the mass element (25) can be reduced or its position moved closer to the tilting axis (21) in order to adjust the trigger threshold.

[0084] This embodiment shows that the device according to the invention can be implemented using simple means and enables reliable operation in outdoor use. Reference symbol list 1 Device (total system) 10 Access channel 11 Cover (removable) 12 Entrance opening of the access channel 13 Exit opening of the access channel (to the collection room) 14 Underflow barrier 15 Backstop 16 Creeping barrier (here in the form of spikes) 20 tilting elements 21 tipping axle 22 tilting axle bearings 23 Run-up section of the tipping element 24 Release section of the tilting element 25 Mass element (for asymmetric mass distribution) 26 Adjustment devices for mass elements (e.g., screw, rail) 30 Collection room 32 Collection containers (removable) 33 Bait area 34 Ramp 50 fragrance openings

Claims

Device for catching reptiles or small animals, comprising an access channel (10) with an inlet opening (12) and an outlet opening (13) leading to the collection chamber (30), a collection chamber (30) connected to the access channel (10) for receiving captured animals, and a tilting element (20) arranged in the access channel (10) which is pivotably mounted about a tilting axis (21), characterized in that the tilting element (20) has a mass distribution or center of gravity position asymmetrical relative to the tilting axis (21), by which an automatic restoring moment is generated in the unloaded state, which automatically returns the tilting element (20) to a basic position. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the tipping element (20) has a ramp section (23) for entry by the animal and a release section (24) for releasing access to the collection chamber (30). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the asymmetric mass distribution is realized by at least one integrated or inserted mass element (25). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the asymmetric mass distribution is adjustable, in particular by means of movable, interchangeable or adjustable mass elements (25) and / or adjustment means (26). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a locking structure (14) is arranged below the tilting axis (21) which prevents bypassing or creeping under the tilting element (20). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a blocking structure (15) to prevent the animal from returning by climbing the tilting element (20) is attached on the side of the exit opening (13) on the access channel (10) or on the cover of the access channel (11). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the collection chamber (30) comprises a removable collection container (32), which is preferably designed as an insert and can be removed from the collection chamber (30) of the device for emptying captured animals. Device according to claim 7, characterized in that the collection container (32) is designed to hold liquid (water, salt water, beer) in order to drown captured animals. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device has several access channels (10) each with a freely pivotable tilting element (20). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tilting element (20) is designed as a one-piece component, wherein the asymmetric mass distribution is realized by material recesses on one side of the tilting axis (21) and / or by material thickenings or integrated mass zones on the other side of the tilting axis (21). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tilting axis (21) is designed as a transverse pin, wire axis or bearing pin which is rotatably mounted on the side walls of the access channel (10), and that the tilting element (20) is mounted on the tilting axis (21) so as to be freely rotatable, but secured against axial displacement. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (1) or the access channel (10) and the collection chamber (30) have a removable or hinged lid (11) so that access to the collection chamber (30) and / or to the access channel (10) is enabled for cleaning and maintenance purposes. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tilting element (20) simultaneously forms a running surface for the animal, a release mechanism and a return element of the device. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tilting element (20) is arranged such that an animal is necessarily guided over the tilting element (20) when passing through the access channel (10). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the tilting element (20) in its home position closes off access from the access channel (10) to the collection chamber (30) and is arranged at least partially behind a collection chamber-side barrier structure (15) so that access to the tilting element (20) from the direction of the collection chamber (30) is prevented or significantly impeded.

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