Arthropod trapping device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to an arthropod trapping device, and more particularly to a compact and portable trapping device comprising a housing and an insert.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to an arthropod trapping device, and more particularly to a compact and portable trapping device comprising a housing and an insert. BACKGROUND

[0002] Historically, various arthropod control devices have been used to trap arthropods, particularly insects. Such devices typically employ an attractant mechanism to lure arthropods to the device. Examples of attractant mechanisms include baits such as food, light, heat, pheromones, or other odoriferous substances found to be attractive to arthropods. Some arthropod control devices in the past have included a securing mechanism to prevent arthropods from leaving the device. One type of securing mechanism used is a substrate, such as a board, paper, or other medium, coated with an adhesive. Arthropods that are lured onto the device or that happen to come into contact with the adhesive are trapped by adhesion.

[0003] Arthropod traps that combine an adhesive for trapping insects with light are known. Arthropod traps with large fluorescent tubes that emit light, e.g., ultraviolet light, visible light, or both, to lure insects and adhesive to trap insects are known. Such traps can be effective at trapping arthropods, but the light emitted by such traps can be too bright for some consumers. Such traps can also be too large to fit in smaller spaces, too obtrusive for some spaces within a home, such as a kitchen or bathroom, and too expensive to provide one trap for each room in a house. In addition, it can be difficult to remove and replace the adhesive sheets in these traps without touching the trapped insects and the adhesive. Smaller disposable arthropod traps are also known that include LED lights and adhesive, have a minimal footprint, and have an aesthetically pleasing design. However, such traps can not be as effective at trapping arthropods as larger traps with fluorescent tubes, for example.

[0004] There is a need for an arthropod trapping device that is effective at trapping arthropods that is not particularly bright and has a compact, aesthetically pleasing design. There is also a need for a trap that can be serviced and disposed of without touching the trapped insects or insect debris. The present disclosure meets these needs by providing a device comprising a housing comprising a base and a shroud coupled to the base, wherein the base comprises a light source (e.g., an LED), and wherein the shroud is configured to receive an insert comprising an at least partially reflective concave light source-facing surface having an adhesive disposed thereon. SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure relates to an insert comprising: a) a substrate and a frame for supporting the substrate, wherein a surface of the substrate has an adhesive disposed thereon; and b) a graspable tab extending from the frame at a second end of the insert, wherein the insert is configured for insertion into an arthropod trapping device, the adhesive being for trapping arthropods, and wherein the graspable tab is substantially free of adhesive.

[0006] The present disclosure also relates to an insert comprising: a) a substrate and a frame for supporting the substrate, wherein a surface of the substrate has an adhesive disposed thereon; and b) a downwardly depending tab extending from the frame at a first end of the insert, wherein the insert is configured for insertion into an arthropod trapping device comprising a slot for receiving the downwardly depending tab and the adhesive for trapping arthropods.

[0007] The present disclosure also relates to an arthropod trapping device, which includes: a housing, the housing including a base and a mask connected to the base, the base being configured to communicate with a power source and receive power from the power source, wherein at least one LED is mounted on the base, the mask being configured to receive an insert including a surface facing the mask and a surface facing the LED, wherein an adhesive for trapping arthropods is disposed on the surface of the insert facing the LED, wherein the at least one LED is configured to emit light toward the surface of the mask facing the LED, wherein the light is reflected from the mask, from the insert, or from a combination thereof.

[0008] The present disclosure also relates to an arthropod trapping device, which includes: a housing, the housing including a base and a mask connected to the base, the base being configured to communicate with a power source and receive power from the power source, wherein at least one LED is mounted on the base, wherein the mask is configured to receive an insert including a surface facing the mask and a surface facing the LED, wherein an adhesive for trapping arthropods is provided on the surface of the insert facing the LED, and the adhesive surface area is greater than or equal to the projected area of ​​the device.

[0009] The present disclosure also relates to an arthropod trapping device, which includes: a housing, the housing including a base and a mask connected to the base, the base being configured to communicate with a power source and receive power from the power source, wherein at least one LED is mounted on the base, the mask being configured to receive an insert including a surface facing the mask and a surface facing the LED, wherein an adhesive for trapping arthropods is disposed on the surface of the insert facing the LED, and wherein the mask is suspended above the base. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG1 is a front right side isometric view of an exemplary arthropod trap according to the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG2 is a rear left isometric view of the arthropod trap shown in FIG1 ;

[0012] Figure 3 is a front view of the arthropod trap shown in FIG1 ;

[0013] Figure 4 is a left side view of the arthropod trap shown in FIG1 ;

[0014] Figure 5 It is a right side view of the arthropod trapping device shown in FIG1 .

[0015] Figure 6 is a rear view of the arthropod trap shown in FIG1 .

[0016] Figure 7 is a top view of the arthropod trap shown in FIG1 ;

[0017] Figure 8 is a bottom view of the arthropod trap shown in FIG1 ;

[0018] Figure 9 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along plane 3-3.

[0019] Figure 10a 、 Figure 10b yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional view along plane 4-4.

[0020] Figure 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the arthropod trapping device shown in FIG1 ;

[0021] 12 is a rear left isometric view of an exemplary insert for an arthropod trap according to the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG13 is a front right side isometric view of the insert shown in FIG12;

[0023] Figure 14 is a right side view of the insert shown in FIG12;

[0024] Figure 15 is a left side view of the insert shown in FIG12;

[0025] Figure 16 is a rear view of the insert shown in FIG12;

[0026] Figure 17 is a top view of the insert shown in FIG12 ;

[0027] Figure 18 is a bottom view of the insert shown in FIG12;

[0028] Figure 19 is a front right isometric view of an exemplary housing for an arthropod trap according to the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 a rear left isometric view of the housing shown in;

[0030] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 A front view of the housing shown in ;

[0031] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 a right side view of the housing shown in ;

[0032] Figure 23 is Figure 19 a rear view of the housing shown in ;

[0033] Figure 24 is Figure 19 Left side view of the housing shown in .

[0034] Figure 25 yes Figure 19 A top view of the housing shown in ;

[0035] Figure 26 yes Figure 19 a bottom view of the housing shown in ;

[0036] Figure 27 yes Figure 19 a front right isometric view of the base of the housing shown in FIG, without the mask;

[0037] Figure 28 The insert shown in FIG12 is shown being inserted into Figure 19 in the housing shown in .

[0038] Figure 29 The projected area of ​​the arthropod trapping device shown in FIG. 1 on plane 1 is shown.

[0039] Figure 30 is a rear right isometric view of the arthropod trap shown in FIG1 .

[0040] Figure 31 is a rear left isometric view of another exemplary arthropod trap according to the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 32 Shown is a drywall test rig used for the optical profilometry method described herein, upon which a lighted plug-in insect trap can be mounted.

[0042] Figure 33 shows a radial arm attached to a drywall test stand, wherein Figure 33a The arm is shown at 0°, Figure 33b The arm is shown at 90°, and Figure 33c The arm is shown at 50° (in right side section view).

[0043] Figure 34 is a rear left isometric view of a comparison arthropod trap without an insert. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] In order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the devices and methods described herein, certain exemplary embodiments will now be described. For purposes of clarity and illustration, these devices and methods will be described with respect to arthropod trapping devices for indoor residential or commercial purposes.

[0045] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the devices and methods described herein can be adapted and modified as appropriate. The terms "arthropod trap," "device," "trapping device," and "trap" are used interchangeably. Arthropods include insects such as flies, mosquitoes, ants, dragonflies, and bees; arachnids such as spiders; and myriapods such as centipedes and millipedes.

[0046] The present disclosure provides arthropod trapping devices, methods of making arthropod trapping devices, and methods of using arthropod trapping devices. Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles of function, design, and use of the arthropod trapping devices disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. One or more persons skilled in the art will understand that the methods described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting examples, and the scope of the various non-limiting examples of the present disclosure is defined entirely by the claims. Features shown or described in conjunction with one non-limiting example may be combined with features of other non-limiting examples. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0047] Now refer to Figures 1 to Figure 8 and Figure 28 , shows an exemplary arthropod trapping device 100 according to one non-limiting embodiment. The arthropod trapping device 100 may have a housing 123 (see Figure 28 ), the housing includes a base 102 and a cover 122 coupled to the base 102 (see Figure 20 The shroud 122 and the base 102 may be separate components that are coupled together to form the housing 123 , or the shroud 122 and the base 102 may integrally form the housing 123 , and the housing 123 may have a unitary construction. The housing 123 may be configured to receive the insert 150 . Figure 28The insert 150 is shown inserted into the housing 123. When the insert 150 is fully seated within the housing 123, the insert 150 can be mechanically engaged with the housing 123, such as, for example, through an interlocking feature or a friction fit.

[0048] The mask may include at least one, preferably two, guide rails 300, as shown in FIG. 2, to help align and secure the insert 150, such as Figure 28 As shown. The guide rail 300 may have an expanded opening 302 to receive the insert 150, wherein the expanded opening 302 is wider and / or deeper than the rest of the guide rail. Thus, the guide rail 300 can help the user engage the insert with the housing and allow insertion at a variety of orientations or angles. In other words, the user does not need to precisely align the trap insert with the trap housing in order to insert the trap insert into the trap housing. The insert may include at least one flange 304 (see FIG. 12 ) configured to slide into the at least one guide rail 300 of the mask 122. The at least one flange 304 may be wider at one end 306, as shown in FIG. 12 . Preferably, when the insert 150 is inserted into the mask 122, the wide end 306 of the flange aligns with the expanded opening 302 of the guide rail. The length of the guide rail may be from about 40 mm to about 150 mm, or from about 50 mm to about 125 mm, or from about 60 mm to about 100 mm. The length of the guide rail can be approximately 80 mm. The length of the expanded opening can be approximately 1% to approximately 25% or approximately 5% to approximately 20% of the total guide rail length. The width and / or depth of the guide rail can further vary along the length of the guide rail. For example, the guide rail can have a reduced width and / or depth at one end (preferably the end opposite the expanded opening 302). This reduced width and / or depth can facilitate a friction fit between the insert 150 and the housing 123.

[0049] As described in more detail below, an adhesive 152 that secures contacted arthropods may be disposed on a surface of the insert 150. The base 102 may include electrical prongs 112 so that the arthropod trapping device 100 may be plugged into a suitable power source, such as a wall outlet. In other configurations, the arthropod trapping device 100 may draw power from an onboard battery or other type of power source (i.e., solar power). The arthropod trapping device 100 may utilize a variety of attractants to attract insects into the device, such as heat, light, chemical attractants, etc., some of which may require a power source to operate. Thus, a power source may be used to energize various onboard components, such as an electric heating element (not shown), a light source 114 such as an LED, and / or other components that may be used to attract insects to the arthropod trapping device 100.

[0050] Examples of suitable chemical attractants include water, water vapor, sugar, sugar solution, molasses, honey, yeast, insect attractant fragrances, pheromones, and combinations thereof. Additional examples of chemical attractants include sorbitol; coleopteran attractants including beetle sex pheromone, dominicalure, southern pine beetle attractant, cotton weevil sex attractant, cypermethrinol, cypermethrinol, japonilure, trimethyldioxytricyclononane, megatomoic acid, multistriatin, oryctalure, cypermethrinol, and trunc-call; dipteran attractants including ceralure, cypermethrin, latilure, mog The insect traps may also contain insect attractants such as uchun, enteleph, and Mediterranean fruit fly attractant; homopteran attractants, including red scale attractant; lepidopteran attractants, such as female gypsy moth attractant; linear lepidopteran pheromones, including codlelure, pink bollworm attractant, linalool, litlure, cabbage looper attractant, pear borer pheromone, and ostramone; organic acids, including lactic acid and malic acid; and other insect attractants, such as eugenol, methyl eugenol, and Mediterranean fruit fly attractant, or other substances that provide an odor that further enhances the insect-attracting effect of the insect trap. The chemical attractant may be fruit or fruit pieces, such as bananas. Alternatively, a combination of live yeast, sugar, and water, which produces carbon dioxide that attracts mosquitoes, may be used.

[0051] like Figure 28 As shown in FIG, the mask 122 can have an outward-facing surface 126 and an insert-facing surface 124, which can be configured to receive an insert 150 including a mask-facing surface 128 and an LED-facing surface 130, wherein an adhesive 152 for securing an arthropod is disposed on the LED-facing surface 130 of the insert 150. The mask 122 can include relative guides 116 extending at least partially along the insert-facing surface 124 of the mask 122. For example, when the insert 150 is slid into the mask 122, the guides 116 can maintain the relative placement of the insert 150 via a friction fit. Other techniques can be used to mechanically engage the insert 150 with the mask 122.

[0052] The mask 122 and / or the insert may be opaque. The mask 122 and / or the insert may have opaque areas. The opacity of the mask and the insert may be measured according to ASTM D1746-15. The mask may have a regular transmittance (T) of less than about 10%, or less than about 5%, or less than about 2%, or less than about 1%, or less than about 0.5%. rThe insert may have a regular transmittance (T) of less than about 90%, or less than about 75%, or less than about 50%, or less than about 30%, or less than about 20%, or less than about 10%, or less than about 5%, or less than about 2%, or less than about 1%, or less than about 0.5%. r ). The mask or insert may have a greater regular transmittance (T) in one area than in another area. r The mask or insert may be colored. The mask and / or insert may conceal trapped arthropods and debris. The opacity of the mask and / or insert may also reduce the brightness of the trap compared to the rest of the room in which the trap is used during use.

[0053] The outwardly facing surface 126 of the mask may be convex, and the insert-facing surface 124 of the mask may be concave. The insert-facing surface 124 of the mask may be configured to receive an insert 150 comprising a convex mask-facing surface 128 and a concave light-source-facing surface 130, preferably an LED, and the light-source-facing surface 130 being an LED-facing surface 130. The insert 150 may include a grippable tab 168 located at a second end 138 of the insert 150. The insert 150 may include a mounting bracket 120 spaced from the light-source-facing surface 130 of the insert 150 and located at a first end 136 of the insert 150, such that the light-source-facing surface 130 of the insert 150 and the bracket 120 together define an opening 134 in the insert 150 (see Figure 25 ). The first end 137 of the shield 122 and the first end 136 of the insert 150 are the ends proximal to the base 102 (in the case of the insert 150, when the insert 150 is inserted into the shield 122, as it is during use). The opposite sides of the opening 134 can be tapered, grooved, or otherwise configured to facilitate proper alignment of the insert 150 as it is slid into the housing 123 by a user. Preferably, the surfaces of the shield 122 and the insert 150 do not have openings large enough to allow arthropods to enter the trap through the openings.

[0054] The first end 137 of the shroud 122 can be suspended from the base 102, wherein the first end 137 of the shroud and the base 102 can define an opening 135 in the housing 123 (as shown in FIG. 24 to FIG. 25). Figure 26). An opening 135 in the housing 123 can be formed between the insert-facing surface 124 of the mask 122 and the outwardly facing wall 103 of the base 102. The opening 135 in the housing 123 can provide arthropods, particularly crawling arthropods, with additional opportunities to enter the trap 100. Light can escape through the opening 135 in the housing 123 (which is located at the bottom of the trap) and attract additional insects to the trap. The opposite sides of the opening 135 in the housing can be tapered, grooved, or otherwise configured to facilitate proper alignment of the insert 150 as it is slid into the housing 123 by a user. The opening 135 in the housing can have a similar shape and size to the opening 134 of the insert 150 so that when the insert 150 is seated in the housing 123, the insert does not cover, block, or impede the entry of arthropods through the opening 135 in the housing.

[0055] Figure 12 to Figure 17 An insert 150 is shown. The insert 150 may include a frame 166 and a substrate 151 attached to the frame 166 or otherwise formed therewith. An adhesive 152 for securing arthropods may be provided on a surface of the substrate 151, preferably on the surface 130 of the insert facing the light source. The adhesive 152 secures arthropods that fall onto the surface 130 of the insert facing the light source and contact the adhesive 152. The adhesive 152 may be coated on the substrate 151 or otherwise applied to the substrate or incorporated into or onto the substrate. The adhesive 152 may be provided on both the surface 128 of the insert 150 facing the mask and the surface 130 facing the light source. In such a configuration, there is preferably space between the mask-facing surface 128 of the insert 150 and the insert-facing surface 124 of the mask 122, and the arthropod can land on the mask-facing surface 128 of the insert 150, the light source-facing surface 130 of the insert 150, or both.

[0056] Adhesive 152 can be selected from the group consisting of: acrylic polymer adhesives, butyl rubber adhesives, natural rubber adhesives, nitrile adhesives, silicone adhesives, styrene block copolymer adhesives, styrene-ethylene / propylene adhesives, styrene-isoprene-styrene adhesives, vinyl ether adhesives, and mixtures thereof. The adhesive can optionally be a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Substrate 151 can be provided in a variety of forms, such as films, woven or non-woven materials (including paper). Substrate 151 can be in the form of a film comprising one or more polymers such as polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene. Substrate 151 can include one or more layers. Typically, the thickness of substrate 151 (with or without adhesive 152 disposed thereon) can be in the range of about 0.01 mm to about 5 mm. The thickness of substrate 151 (with or without adhesive 152 disposed thereon) can be in the range of about 0.05 mm to about 1.0 mm. The adhesive surface area (the area of ​​the surface of the device or insert on which adhesive 152 is disposed, see e.g. Figure 30 ) can be about 25cm 2 to about 200cm 2 , or about 50cm 2 to about 175cm 2 , or about 75cm 2 to about 150cm 2 or about 100cm 2 to about 145cm 2 .

[0057] like Figures 29 to 30 As shown, the adhesive surface area can be greater than or equal to the projected area of ​​the trap. As used herein, "projected area" means the two-dimensional area of ​​an arthropod trap measured by projecting the shape of the device onto an arbitrary plane, with the adhesive facing the plane, e.g. Figure 29 shown. Figure 30 Shown Figure 29 The projected area can be determined, for example, by area calculations of known geometric shapes, curve integrators, or by superimposing the actual drawn area on grid paper with predetermined area markings. The projected area can be determined using known computer-aided design (CAD) software such as The projected area of ​​the arthropod trap can be about 20cm 2 to about 170cm 2 , or about 40cm 2 to about 150cm 2 , or about 60cm 2 to about 125cm 2The ratio of adhesive surface area to projected area of ​​the device can be from about 5:1 to about 1:1, or from about 3:1 to about 1:1, or from about 2:1 to 1:1, or from about 1.5:1 to about 1:1, or from about 1.2:1 to about 1:1.

[0058] Adhesive 152 may be opaque, transparent, or translucent. Substrate 151 may be opaque, transparent, or translucent. Substrate 151 (with or without adhesive disposed thereon) may have a regular transmittance (T) of less than about 90%, or less than about 75%, or less than about 50%, or less than about 30%, or less than about 20%, or less than about 10%, or less than about 5%, or less than about 2%, or less than about 1%, or less than about 0.5%. r ). Preferably, both the adhesive 152 and the substrate 151 are transparent or translucent. The substrate 151 on which the adhesive 152 is disposed may have a regular transmittance (T) greater than about 50%, or greater than about 75%, or greater than about 85%, or greater than about 90%, or greater than about 92.5%, or greater than about 95%, or greater than about 97.5%, or greater than about 99%, or greater than about 99.5%. r ). More specifically, substrate 151 may transmit greater than approximately 50%, greater than approximately 60%, greater than approximately 70%, or greater than approximately 80% of ultraviolet light. Substrate 151 may transmit greater than approximately 50%, greater than approximately 70%, or greater than approximately 90% of blue light. Adhesive 152 may transmit less than approximately 60%, less than approximately 50%, or less than approximately 40% of ultraviolet light. Adhesive 152 may transmit greater than approximately 50%, greater than approximately 70%, or greater than approximately 90% of blue light. Substrate 151 with adhesive 152 disposed thereon may transmit less than approximately 50%, less than approximately 40%, or less than approximately 30% of ultraviolet light. Substrate 151 with adhesive 152 disposed thereon may transmit greater than approximately 50%, greater than approximately 70%, or greater than approximately 90% of blue light.

[0059] The transparent or translucent substrate 151 having a transparent or translucent adhesive 152 disposed thereon allows for observation of trapped arthropods through the substrate without completely removing the insert 150 from the housing 123 and / or without directly inspecting the adhesive surface of the insert. Thus, the user does not need to completely remove the insert from the housing and rotate the insert in order to observe the trapped arthropods and / or determine whether the insert should be disposed of and replaced with a new one. A peelable liner (not shown) may be applied to the adhesive 152 to cover and protect the adhesive 152 prior to use. The user can peel off the peelable liner to expose the adhesive 152 immediately before inserting the insert 150 into the mask 122.

[0060] While the insert 150 is shown as including a frame 166 that surrounds the entire perimeter of the insert 150, the present disclosure is not so limited. For example, the frame 166 can extend only partially around the perimeter of the insert 150. For example, the frame 166 can extend along portions other than the first end 136 of the insert 150. In other configurations, the insert 150 can be frameless, with the adhesive portion 152 applied to at least a central portion of the substrate 151, where the substrate 151 provides sufficient structural rigidity. Further, the insert 150 and / or the substrate 151 can be concavo-convex (where one surface of the substrate is concave and the opposite surface of the substrate is convex) or have other suitable configurations, such as, for example, planar or corrugated. Opposing edges of the frame 166 can be connected, for example, as shown in FIGS. 12-14, to provide additional structural support and rigidity to the insert 150. Figure 18

[0061] The insert 150 can include a reservoir (not shown) for storing an insect attractant component. The insect attractant component can be provided in a variety of forms, including gas, liquid, solid, and combinations thereof. Solid components also include semi-solid components, such as gels, which include one or more liquids and one or more gelling agents. The reservoir can also be used to capture fallen insects, such as insects that were initially secured by the adhesive 152 but are no longer adequately retained by the adhesive 152 after drying and becoming brittle. The reservoir can have a volume of between about 1 cm3 3 and 60 cm3 3 . The reservoir can be made integral and then attached to the frame. Alternatively, the reservoir can be integrally formed with the frame, for example, by an injection molding or thermoforming process. The reservoir can be positioned so as not to reduce the surface area of the adhesive 152. Alternatively, the insert 150 can not include a reservoir.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 1, a longitudinal centerline 3-3 can divide the trap 100 (including the housing 123 and the insert 150) into two lateral halves. For a symmetrical insert, the longitudinal centerline divides the insert into two symmetrical halves. For an asymmetrical insert, the longitudinal centerline passes vertically through its geometric center (relative to the configuration of the insert when inserted into the housing, where the device is inserted into a conventional wall-mounted electrical outlet). Figure 3

[0063] ​​As shown in FIG12 , the insert 150 can include a downwardly depending tab 164. The downwardly depending tab 164 can be positioned on the first end 136 of the insert 150. The downwardly depending tab 164 can extend downwardly from the mounting bracket 120. As described above, the mounting bracket 120 can be spaced apart from the LED-facing surface 130 of the insert 150 such that the LED-facing surface 130 of the insert 150 and the bracket 120 together define the opening 134 in the insert 150. The maximum distance between the LED-facing surface 130 of the insert 150 and the bracket 120, measured at the longitudinal centerline 3 - 3 of the insert 150, can be about 5 mm to about 50 mm, or about 10 mm to about 40 mm, or about 10 mm to about 35 mm.

[0064] The downwardly depending tab 164 can be positioned such that the longitudinal centerline 5-5 of the downwardly depending tab 164 is laterally offset from the longitudinal centerline 3-3 of the insert 150, as shown in Figure 12. Laterally offsetting the downwardly depending tab 164 can help properly align the insert 150 with the base 102. As shown, due to this lateral offset of the tab 164, the longitudinal centerline 3-3 of the insert does not overlap with any portion of the tab 164. In this regard, the first side edge 163 and the second side edge 165 of the tab 164 are each laterally offset from the longitudinal centerline 3-3 of the insert 150. The second side edge 165 can be laterally offset further away from the longitudinal centerline 3-3 than the first side edge 163. Furthermore, because the first side edge 163 and the second side edge 165 are offset in the same lateral direction, both the first side edge 163 and the second side edge 165 of the tab 164 can be positioned on the same lateral side of the insert 150. The longitudinal centerline 5-5 of the downwardly depending tab 164 may be laterally offset from the longitudinal centerline 3-3 of the insert 150 by about 5 mm to about 25 mm, or about 8 mm to about 20 mm, or about 10 mm to about 15 mm.

[0065] When the insert 150 is inserted into the housing 123, the base 102 can receive the downwardly depending tab 164. The base 102 can include a switch 107, as shown in FIG10 , which can be used to operate one or more insect attractants (e.g., light source 114, etc.) such that such insect attractants are energized only when the insert 150 is engaged with the base 102. Thus, when the insert 150 is removed from the base 102, the switch is deactivated and the insect attractants are no longer energized.

[0066] More specifically, the insert 150 can only be fully seated into the base 102 when the insert 150 is facing the proper orientation, such that the downwardly depending tab 164 is received in the slot 101 in the base 102. Additionally, the downwardly depending tab 164 can help ensure that the insert 150 is properly inserted into the shroud 122. The downwardly depending tab 164 can also serve as a convenient gripping point for the user during insertion or removal of the insert 150. The downwardly depending tab 164 can have any suitable configuration or shape.

[0067] The downwardly depending tab 164 may have a maximum width (W T ), which is less than 75% of the width of the mounting bracket 120 of the insert 150, or less than 50% of the width of the mounting bracket 120 of the insert 150, or less than 25% of the width of the mounting bracket 120 of the insert 150, or less than 10% of the width of the mounting bracket 120 of the insert 150. The maximum width (W T ) can be from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 8 mm to about 15 mm, or from about 10 mm to about 13 mm. The length (L) of the downwardly depending tab 164 T ) can be from about 5 mm to about 40 mm, or from about 10 mm to about 30 mm, or from about 15 mm to about 25 mm. The downwardly depending tab 164 can be generally planar. The tab 164 can have a first side edge 163 on one side and a second side edge 165 on the other side. Depending on the configuration of the tab 164, the first side edge 163 and the second side edge 165 can converge at a closest point 170 of the tab 164. It should be understood that a variety of tab configurations can be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the size, position, and structure of the tab can vary.

[0068] The insert 150 may include a grippable tab 168. Figure 15 and Figure 28As shown, a grip tab 168 may be positioned on the second end 138 of the insert 150. The grip tab 168 may extend from the frame 166. The grip tab 168 may be integral with the frame. The grip tab 168 may serve as a convenient gripping point for the user during insertion or removal of the insert 150. The grip tab 168 may be substantially free of adhesive to allow the user to grip the insert 150 without contacting the adhesive 152. The grip tab 168 may be positioned equidistant from the side edges of the frame 166 along the longitudinal centerline 3-3 of the insert 150. Alternatively, the grip tab 168 may not be positioned along the longitudinal centerline 3-3 of the insert 150 and may not be equidistant from the side edges of the frame 166. The grip tab 168 may help ensure that the insert 150 is properly inserted into the housing 123. The cover 122 may have a recess 125 to accommodate the gripping tab 168. The recess 125 may allow the gripping tab 168 to be visible when a user is viewing the outward-facing surface 126 of the cover 122. The cover 122 may be designed to hide or obscure the insert 150 from view, while the recess 125 allows the gripping tab 168 to be visible. Thus, the gripping tab 168 may indicate to the user where and how to grip the insert 150. The gripping tab 168 may be visible even when the trap is plugged into a wall outlet. The gripping tab 168 may have any suitable configuration or shape. The size of the gripping tab 168 may be selected to optimize the grip of the insert 150, making it easier for the user to grip the insert 150 by the gripping tab 168. The gripping tab 168 may have a grip of approximately 50 mm. 2 to about 500mm 2 , or about 100mm 2 to about 400mm 2 , or about 110mm 2 to about 300mm 2 , or about 120mm 2 to about 200mm 2 , or about 130mm 2 to about 150mm 2 surface area.

[0069] Figure 27 The base 102 is shown without the mask 122. Figure 27As shown, at least one LED 114 serving as an arthropod attractant can be mounted on the base 102. The type of light source and the peak wavelength of light emitted from the light source can be selected to attract specific arthropods, as different arthropods can be attracted by different types of light sources and / or light of different peak wavelengths. The light source 114 is preferably a light emitting diode (LED), which is a form of solid-state lighting, as shown. The arthropod trapping device can include at least one LED 114, or about 2 to about 20 LEDs 114, or about 2 to about 10 LEDs 114.

[0070] LEDs 114 may be mounted using any suitable attachment technology, such as through-hole technology. One or more of LEDs 114 may utilize surface mount technology (SMT), such that LEDs 114 are surface mount devices (SMDs). The LEDs may be of any shape, preferably, the LEDs are tapered. Each of LEDs 114 may have a diameter between about 0.5 mm and about 10 mm. Additionally, each LED may have a diameter of 0.5 mm. 2 and about 100mm 2 Some examples of LEDs include semiconductor light emitting diodes, polymer light emitting diodes, and organic light emitting diodes. The trap may include two or more LEDs, wherein at least one LED is configured to emit light directly or indirectly toward the housing and at least one LED is configured to emit light away from the housing.

[0071] Other light sources that may be used include, but are not limited to, incandescent or filament lamps, fluorescent lamps, halogen lamps, xenon lamps, or other light sources known in the art. The light may or may not have a filter to adjust the peak wavelength of its output. Furthermore, as used herein, light source 114 is a light-generating component or element of a lighting technology used as an insect attractant. In this regard, light source 114 may be any of a diode, a filament, an energized gas, and the like. Light source 114 does not include wiring, connectors, a base, lenses, or other components that may be associated with a light-generating component or element.

[0072] The arthropod trapping device may include at least one LED 114 having a peak wavelength of about 350 nm to about 500 nm, or about 400 nm to about 500 nm, or about 350 nm to about 400 nm. The arthropod trapping device may include at least one LED 114 having a peak wavelength of about 350 nm to about 400 nm and at least one LED 114 having a peak wavelength of about 400 nm to about 500 nm. The LED having a peak wavelength of about 400 nm to about 500 nm may preferably emit light toward the mask 122 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the mask. The LED having a peak wavelength of about 350 nm to about 400 nm may emit light in a direction substantially parallel to the mask 122 and / or substantially perpendicular to the mask 122.

[0073] Ultraviolet light (peak wavelength in the range of about 100 nm to about 400 nm) and visible light (peak wavelength in the range of about 400 nm to about 700 nm), particularly blue light, are both effective in attracting arthropods. High-intensity blue light may be optimal for attracting arthropods, but such light may be too bright for use in a user's home. High-intensity ultraviolet light may also attract arthropods, but the ultraviolet light intensity is also preferably adjusted for home use.

[0074] Without being bound by theory, the arthropod trapping device of the present disclosure is designed to effectively balance both blue light intensity and ultraviolet light intensity to increase trapping performance while providing a trap suitable for use in a user's home. It is also believed that emitting light of a selected peak wavelength in a selected direction relative to the mask can optimize trapping performance. For example, an LED having a peak wavelength of about 400 nm to about 500 nm can emit light toward the mask in a direction substantially perpendicular to the mask 122, with some of the light reflected from the mask and / or the insert. In use, when the arthropod trapping device is inserted into a wall outlet, the mask and / or the insert can reflect the light onto the wall comprising the outlet. It is believed that the light reflected from the wall can attract flying arthropods toward the arthropod trapping device even from considerable distances. Furthermore, when an arthropod approaches the trap, light having a peak wavelength of about 400 nm to about 500 nm emitted toward the surface of the insert facing the LEDs attracts the arthropod to the adhesive provided on the surface of the insert facing the LEDs (which faces the wall during use). Preferably, the intensity of the light emitted towards the surface of the insert facing the LEDs is greater than the intensity of the light reflected from the mask and / or the insert onto the wall.

[0075] The arthropod trap may produce a halo pattern on the wall, preferably an asymmetric halo pattern. Both direct illumination and indirect illumination (light reflected from the mask and / or insert onto the wall) may contribute to the halo pattern on the wall. It will be appreciated that Figure 27The LED arrangement shown in is an example, and the number, type, and position of the LEDs can be modified. In addition, reflectors and / or lenses can be used to shape the light pattern. The halo pattern on the wall can be produced in a variety of ways, for example, by adjusting the intensity of the light, by adjusting the directionality of the light, and / or by adjusting the reflectivity of the mask and / or insert (thereby adjusting the level of direct lighting versus indirect lighting).

[0076] The base 102 can include a slot 101. The slot 101 can be a narrow, slit opening. The slot 101 is sized to allow the tab 164 to pass therethrough during insertion of the insert 150 into the base 102. To provide proper alignment with the tab 164, the slot 101 is laterally offset from a centerline (not shown) of the base 102. The position of the slot 101 ensures that when the insert 150 is properly aligned in the slot 101, the first end 136 of the insert 150 can be fully inserted into the base 102.

[0077] Figures 10a to 10b A partial cross-sectional view of the base 102 with the insert 150 installed is shown. Figure 9 It is along Figure 4 4 and 5. A cross-sectional view of the base 102 and insert 150 is shown taken along line 4-4 in FIG. The circuit board 106 can be oriented vertically within the base 102. Various electrical components can be coupled to and extend away from the circuit board 106. Due to size constraints and to eliminate interference with other components, larger components can be centrally positioned on the circuit board 106. The tab 164 of the insert 150 is shown extending through the slot 101. The tab 164 is shown contacting the switch 107, which is coupled to the circuit board 106, thereby closing the switch 107. The switch 107 is oriented vertically so that the elongated tab slidably engages a lever or other type of actuator of the switch to close the switch. Closing the switch 107 energizes various components of the base 102, such as the light source 114. The base 102 may also include one or more rails (not shown). The guide rails in the base may be configured such that when the tab 164 passes through the slot 101 , the guide rails bias the tab 164 against the switch 107 , which might otherwise bend outward due to its thin and elongated configuration.

[0078] The arthropod trapping device may include a mask, a base, and no insert, wherein the adhesive is disposed directly on the mask. Thus, the mask can be removably attached to the base, and after use, the entire mask can be removed and disposed of by the user. A new mask can then be secured to the base, and operation of the arthropod trapping device can be resumed. The mask can otherwise be similar to a mask configured to receive an insert, as described above.

[0079] Arthropod trapping devices according to the present disclosure utilize electricity for operation. As provided above, exemplary arthropod trapping devices can be plugged into a wall outlet, allowing various onboard attractants, such as a light source and / or other forms of energized attractants, to be energized. Such arthropod trapping devices may also include various liquids, gels, or other components for attracting insects to the arthropod trapping device. Because users will periodically interact with the device, such as replacing used inserts, it is extremely important to provide an insect trap that is safe and easy to operate. For example, with respect to the various onboard electrical components, when a user interacts with the device, such as when a user removes a used insert, it is desirable that such electrical components be powered off so that they can be replaced with a new insert. It is also desirable that such electrical components be powered on only when the insert is correctly inserted into the base. For example, providing power to a light source only when the insert is correctly inserted provides useful operational feedback to the user. Furthermore, it is desirable to automatically power off the onboard electrical components when the insert is removed, providing ease of use and safe operation. While providing the safety benefits discussed above, it may also be advantageous to provide structural features on the insert and base to ensure that the user inserts the insert into the base in the correct orientation.

[0080] According to various arthropod trapping devices described herein, the circuit board (i.e., Figure 9 The circuit board 106 (included in the apparatus) is positioned within the base. Typically, the circuit board receives power from a power source (e.g., a wall outlet) and distributes the power to the onboard components. The circuit board can be mounted vertically within the base so that when the arthropod trap is plugged into a conventional wall outlet, the internal circuit board is generally parallel to the wall. Vertical positioning of the circuit board also serves to provide a compact base.

[0081] A circuit board or collection of circuit boards may include various component parts, such as, but not limited to, voltage control circuits, capacitors, integrated circuits, resistors, and the like. The circuit board may also include a switch that controls the supply of power to on-board attractants, such as heating elements and light sources. For example, when the switch is in a first (open) position, some or all of the on-board electrical attractants are de-energized. When the switch is in a second (closed) position, all of the on-board attractants are energized. Due to the vertical arrangement of the circuit board, the switch may also be oriented vertically. The placement options for large components on the circuit board may depend at least in part on the size constraints of the internal cavity of the base and be balanced with the desire to provide a compact base. In this way, large components can be centrally located on the circuit board, while other smaller profile components (such as switches) are laterally spaced apart from the center of the circuit board. In this way, large components can be positioned so as not to interfere with mounting posts, the curvature of the base, etc., but the overall form factor of the base can remain generally compact.

[0082] The base may include an opening to provide access to a switch mounted within the base. To accommodate access to the switch, the opening may be a slot positioned vertically above the switch. The slot is sized to allow an elongated, generally planar tab to pass through the slot and into the cavity of the base, allowing the tab to engage the switch. However, the narrow size of the slot advantageously limits the ability of other foreign objects to pass through the slot. As described above, the switch may be laterally spaced from the center of the circuit board. Therefore, the slot may also be laterally offset from the centerline of the base. The generally planar tab may be laterally offset from the centerline of the insert so that when the user attaches the insert to the base, the tab is aligned with the slot and the switch.

[0083] In some cases, the tab passing through the slot may have a certain amount of flex due to its relatively thin profile and length, for example, to accommodate the narrow slot and switch placement. Thus, the base may include one or more vertical guides positioned proximate to the switch such that when the tab passes through the slot, the guides bias the tab toward the switch. When the tab is fully inserted, the tab may be positioned between the switch and the guides. The guides may be positioned and configured to ensure that the tab fully engages the switch despite its relatively thin profile and flexibility.

[0084] Methods of using arthropod traps

[0085] The arthropod trapping device described herein can be used to trap or capture arthropods, preferably insects, more preferably flies. The present disclosure relates to a method of trapping arthropods in an arthropod trapping device, the method comprising the steps of: inserting an insert having an adhesive disposed thereon into a housing of the arthropod trapping device, wherein the housing comprises a base having at least one LED mounted thereon and a shield coupled to the base; and engaging the base with a power source, wherein the base may comprise one or more conductive prongs, and engaging the base with the power source comprises inserting the conductive prongs into a power outlet. The method may further comprise the steps of removing the insert from the housing and disposing of the insert, preferably without contacting the adhesive or arthropod debris adhered thereto, wherein removing the insert from the housing deactivates a switch in the base to de-energize the LED.

[0086] These steps can be performed in any order. The arthropod trap can be used in any room in the home, including the kitchen, garage, screened-in hallway, or bathroom. The arthropod trap can also be used in other buildings, including commercial buildings and businesses, such as detached garages, barns, and the like.

[0087] In an alternative configuration of the arthropod trapping device, the insert can be planar and the cover can be convex. The planar insert is preferably flexible. In use, when the planar insert is inserted into the convex cover, the user can flex, bend or deflect the planar insert. As described above, the cover can include opposing rails extending at least partially along the surface of the cover facing the insert. The planar insert can be held in place by the rails. Alternatively, the insert can at least partially conform to the shape of the cover.

[0088] In this regard, the present disclosure also relates to a method of trapping arthropods in an arthropod trapping device, the method comprising the steps of: inserting an insert having an adhesive disposed thereon into a housing of the arthropod trapping device, wherein the housing comprises a base having at least one LED mounted thereon and a curved or convex cover coupled to the base; and engaging the base with a power source, wherein the base can comprise one or more electrically conductive prongs and engaging the base with the power source comprises inserting the electrically conductive prongs into an electrical outlet. The step of inserting the planar insert can comprise flexing, bending or deflecting the planar insert. The planar insert can optionally comprise a downwardly depending tab integral with the insert. Alternatively, the planar insert and the tab, i.e. the activation tab, can be provided as two separate components and the method can further comprise the step of inserting the activation tab into a slot in the base to activate a switch in the base and energize the LED. The method can further comprise the steps of removing the insert from the housing and disposing of the insert, preferably without touching the adhesive or arthropod carcasses adhered thereto, and removing the activation tab from the base to deactivate the switch in the base and de-energize the LED.

[0089] The present disclosure also relates to a restocking system or restocking kit for an arthropod trapping device, the restocking system comprising a planar insert having an adhesive disposed thereon and an activation tab, wherein the planar insert is configured for insertion into a housing of the arthropod trapping device, wherein the housing comprises a base having at least one LED mounted thereon and a cover coupled to the base, and the activation tab is configured for insertion into a slot in the base, wherein insertion of the activation tab into the base activates a switch in the base to energize the LED. The base can comprise one or more electrically conductive prongs for engaging the base with a power source, such as by inserting the electrically conductive prongs into an electrical outlet.

[0090] Test Method

[0091] Optical profilometry

[0092] Optical profilometry uses a fiber optic spectrophotometer to measure the absolute light intensity across the spectrum of a light-emitting plug-in insect trap mounted on a drywall test bench. This test measures A) the light at the wall surface, B) the light radiating away from the wall and the fixture, and C) the light at the fixture. The tests were assembled on the same test bench, but in non-overlapping areas to avoid interference between measurements.

[0093] A modular spectrophotometer (e.g., Flame-S-VIS-NIR-ES or equivalent available from Ocean Insight, Largo, FL) capable of measuring the absolute intensity of the spectral irradiance of a plane surface in air over a wavelength range of 350 nm to 1000 nm is used. The spectrophotometer is interacted with suitable control software (e.g., OceanView spectrophotometer software or equivalent available from Ocean Insight, Largo, FL) that drives the instrument and collects scan data. The spectrophotometer is equipped with a fiber optic assembly including a fiber optic patch cable (e.g., QP400-1-UV-VIS or equivalent available from Ocean Insight, Largo, FL) and a light diffuser cosine corrector (e.g., CC-3-UV-S or equivalent available from Ocean Insight, Largo, FL) for a range of 200 nm to 2500 nm to collect signals over a 180° field of view. Absolute light intensity was calibrated using a NIST-traceable radiometrically calibrated light source (such as the HL-3P-CAL or equivalent available from Ocean Insight, Largo, FL) All measurements were performed in a darkroom with the device as the only light source.

[0094] Test bench structure

[0095] The test bench consisted of vertically mounted drywall sheets (nominal 0.5 inch thick), approximately 122 cm high by 91 cm wide, sealed and painted with Ultra White matte / matte interior paint using a 0.25 inch nap roller. The finished surface was to have minimal texture and a target CIELAB color of L*=97.8, a*=-1.2, b*=2.2, with ΔE*≤2, as measured by ASTM E1349 and ASTM D2244. The test apparatus was powered to the local residential national standard (e.g., 15A, 120V, and 60Hz in the United States). The receptacles mounted on the test bench of the apparatus were single-row junction boxes with cover plates, or equivalent. The outlets and outlet plates were white. The power supply was controlled to the residential national standard ±2 volts for the particular country.

[0096] Reference Figure 32To measure light at the drywall surface, an electrical outlet 1001 is mounted into the surface along the vertical centerline of the test bench, approximately 40 cm from the top edge of the test bench. Depending on the design of the device, the outlet is oriented so that when the device's shield is inserted into it, the device's shield is oriented upward over the outlet. Therefore, the outlet may need to be mounted, for example, at 90 or 180 degrees from its typical mounting orientation shown in 1001, to achieve an upward position.

[0097] Above the outlet, a grid of holes 1002 is drilled in the drywall. A nylon flange bushing (available from McMaster-Carr or other convenient source) is inserted into each hole and recessed so that the flange is flush with the drywall surface. The wall surface of the bushing is also painted to match the drywall. The inner diameter of the hole / sleeve is selected so that the spectrophotometer probe can fit snugly and be positioned flush with the drywall surface for measurement. The grid of holes is arranged relative to the upper plug 1003 of the outlet. The origin 1004 is located at the vertical and horizontal center of the plug 1003. The four rows of the grid are vertically centered at 9.0 cm, 14.5 cm, 19.5 cm, and 24.5 cm above the origin 1004, respectively. The center column of the grid is vertically centered above the origin 1004. The other columns are centered 6.7 cm and 11.8 cm to the right and left of the center column, respectively.

[0098] Reference Figure 33a and Figure 33b To measure the light radiating outward from the wall and the device, a second power outlet 1010 is mounted in a similar manner to outlet 1001, positioned along the vertical centerline of the test bench approximately 40 cm below the bottom edge of outlet 1001. The radial arm 1011 is a 180° arc with an inner diameter of 30.5 cm, an outer diameter of 35.6 cm, and a thickness of 1.9 cm. The radial arm is painted matte black so that it does not reflect light. The ends of the arc (at 0° and 180°) are rounded, and a 1.27 cm cylindrical shaft 1012 extends 2.54 cm outward from the arm. The origin 1013 of the plug 1014 is determined in a similar manner to the origin 1004. The two shafts 1012 are horizontally aligned with the origin 1013 of the plug and attached to the drywall with two pipe clamps 1015. The arm should be able to rotate smoothly 180° about the axis. The probe is secured to radial arm 1011 using nylon tubing 1016, 2 cm long and 2 mm thick, with an inner diameter suitable for snugly holding the spectrophotometer probe. As the radial arm is rotated upward, resting against the drywall, the tubes are mounted on the arm's surface, flush with the arm's inner radius and spaced 10° apart. Each tube is oriented toward the origin 1013 on the plug.

[0099] Reference Figure 33cThe radial arms are locked in place using supports 1017, mounted vertically and perpendicular to the wall. The supports are 180° arcs made of aluminum with an 8.5 cm inner radius, an 11.0 cm outer radius, and a thickness of 1.27 cm. Nineteen 0.7 cm through-holes 1018 are drilled in the supports at 10° intervals. 0.63 cm cylindrical pins 2019 are inserted through holes 1018 into corresponding 0.7 cm receiving holes 1020 drilled into the radial arms 1011.

[0100] Instrument setup

[0101] Assemble the spectrophotometer, optical cable and cosine corrector according to the supplier's instructions. Connect the computer controller and use a calibrated light source to calibrate the absolute irradiance according to the supplier's instructions. For collection, the spectrophotometer is set to scan the wavelength of 350nm to 750nm. Collect intensity data with a resolution of 1nm.

[0102] The total intensity (i.e., the sum of all intensities over the specified range) and the maximum intensity (i.e., the maximum intensity within the specified range) are calculated for each of the following wavelength classes:

[0103] Overall = 350nm-750nm

[0104] UVA=350nm-400nm

[0105] VIS=400nm-750nm

[0106] Blue light = 450nm-485nm

[0107] Part A: Measurements at the wall

[0108] The spectrophotometer probe is inserted into the hole so that the measuring end of the probe is positioned flush with the wall. Figure 32 Measurements are taken at different locations within the grid shown. The grid is indexed by the x,y coordinates starting from the lower left corner as [1,1]. When it is desired to take measurements other than along the vertical axis of the device, paired measurements are taken equidistantly on the left and right sides of the device and averaged before reporting.

[0109] For example, spectra are collected sequentially at positions [3,1]A, [3,2]B, [3,4]C, [1,2]D1, [1,4]D2, [1,1]E1, and [1,5]E2. For each spectrum, the sum of the intensities is calculated and the maximum intensity within each wavelength class is identified. For positions A, B, and C, the sum of the intensities and the maximum intensity are reported as the total intensity and maximum intensity, respectively, for each wavelength class, with an accuracy of 1 μW / cm 2For the D1, D2 pair and the E1, E2 pair, the sum of the pairwise intensities and the maximum intensity of the pairwise intensity for each wavelength class are averaged and reported as the total intensity and maximum intensity for D and E, respectively, to the nearest 1 μW / cm 2 .

[0110] Part B: Measurements towards the wall

[0111] use Figures 33a to 33c The radial arm shown in the figure performs measurements directed toward the wall. The radial arm can be rotated about the device and locked in 10° increments, and the probe can also be radially positioned on the arm in 10° increments to perform spectral measurements around the device at locations along the hemispherical "dome." The radial arm rotated upward and against the drywall is defined as 0°. When measurements other than along the vertical axis of the device are desired, paired measurements are taken equidistantly on the left and right sides of the device and averaged. Positions are indexed as [angle of the arm, angle of the probe along the arm] coordinates.

[0112] For example, spectra are collected at positions G[90,90] and J[0,90], as well as at the pairs H1[90,50], H2[90,100], and I1[0,0], I2[0,180]. For each spectrum, the sum of the intensities is calculated and the maximum intensity within each wavelength class is identified. For positions G and J, the sum of the intensities and the maximum intensity are reported as the total intensity and the maximum intensity, respectively, for each wavelength class, with an accuracy of 1 μW / cm 2 For the H1, H2 pair and the I1, I2 pair, the sum of the pairwise intensities and the maximum intensity of the pairwise intensity are averaged for each wavelength class pair and reported as the total intensity and maximum intensity for H and I, respectively, to the nearest 1 μW / cm 2 .

[0113] Part C: Measurements at the Installation

[0114] The measurement is performed at the device last, as it is destructive to the device. The radial arm is rotated upward to the 0° position. Using a scalpel or drill, a circular hole the size of the diameter of the spectral probe is cut at the longitudinal and horizontal midpoints of the mask and insert of the device, which passes completely through the mask and insert so that light can radiate out. The spectral probe is inserted into the circular hole, through the mask and insert, so that the measuring end of the probe is positioned at the surface of the insert facing the light source and facing the wall, and a scan is acquired. For this position, referred to as F (not shown), the sum of the intensities is calculated and the maximum intensity is identified within each wavelength level. For position F, the sum of the intensities and the maximum intensity are reported as total intensity and maximum intensity, respectively, for each wavelength level, accurate to 1 μW / cm 2 .

[0115] Example

[0116] Optical profilometry was used to measure the absolute light intensity across the spectrum of light emitting plug-in insect traps mounted on drywall test benches. The traps tested were DOT, DT3009 Flylight, one trap with a flat configuration, two different traps with a curved configuration, where two traps had different intensity blue light LED lights.

[0117] Light intensity was measured at locations A, C, D, E, F, J, H, I, and G as described above and as shown in Figure 32 , Figure 33a , Figure 33b and Figure 33c . For all traps tested, the light intensity measured at locations D1 and D2 was the same and is reported in Table 1 as location D. For all traps tested, the light intensity at locations II and I2 was the same and is reported in Table 1 as location I.

[0118] Table 1.

[0119]

[0120]

[0121] *Intensity too low to measure using optical profilometry described herein.

[0122] **Ratio not calculated if blue light intensity, UVA intensity, or both are 0.

[0123] 1Flat trap is the trap of Figure 34 .

[0124] 2Curved trap A is the trap of Figure 1.

[0125] 3Curved trap B is the trap of Figure 1 but has different light intensity than curved trap A (due to use of different LEDs).

[0126] 4Curved trap C is the trap of Figure 31 .

[0127] Table 2.

[0128]

[0129]

[0130] **Ratio not calculated if blue light, UVA, or both are 0.

[0131] 1 plane trap is Figure 34 trap.

[0132] 2 Curved surface trap A is the trap in Figure 1.

[0133] 3 Curved Trap B is the trap of Figure 1, but with a different light intensity than Curved Trap A (due to the use of different LEDs).

[0134] 4 curved surface trap C is Figure 31 trap.

[0135] It is believed that an arthropod trap having a light source and an opaque cover configured such that when the trap is plugged into a wall outlet, light is projected onto the cover and the wall behind the trap will better attract arthropods.

[0136] More specifically, for blue light, ultraviolet light, or both, it may be desirable for the light intensity to be greatest at position F (the longitudinal and horizontal midpoint of the mask). Without being bound by theory, this can ensure that arthropods attracted to the vicinity of the trap will be mostly attracted to position F, which represents the surface of the insert facing the light source / LED where the adhesive for trapping arthropods is located. The blue light intensity at position F can be approximately 50 μW / cm 2 to about 30000μW / cm 2 , or about 100 μW / cm 2 to about 20000μW / cm 2 , or about 500μW / cm 2 to about 5000 μW / cm 2 The UV intensity at position F may be approximately 10 μW / cm 2 to about 450 μW / cm 2 , or about 20μW / cm 2 to about 100 μW / cm 2 The ratio of the blue light intensity to the ultraviolet light intensity at position F may be from about 10 to about 100, or from about 15 to about 50.

[0137] For blue light, ultraviolet light, or both, it may be desirable for the light intensity at position A to be less than the light intensity at position F, but greater than the light intensity at other positions. Without being bound by theory, when the trap is plugged into a wall outlet, having increased light intensity at position A, which represents the wall directly behind the trap shroud, may help attract arthropods from further away. Furthermore, light projected on the wall directly behind the shroud is less intrusive to the user because the shroud blocks some of the light. The blue light intensity at position A may be about 200 μW / cm 2 to approximately 20,000 μW / cm 2 , or about 300μW / cm2 to approximately 10,000 μW / cm 2 , or about 350μW / cm 2 to approximately 8,000 μW / cm 2 The UV light intensity at position A can be about 20 μW / cm 2 to about 55 μW / cm 2 , or about 25μW / cm 2 to about 50 μW / cm 2 The ratio of the blue light intensity to the ultraviolet light intensity at position A may be from about 7 to about 200, or from about 10 to about 200.

[0138] It may be desirable that the blue light intensity at positions B and D be less than that at positions A and F. The light measured at positions B and D represents the halo of light transmitted by the trap on the wall when the trap is plugged into a wall outlet. At positions B and D, the light intensity is preferably sufficient to attract arthropods into the trap, but not so great as to be disturbing to the user. The blue light intensity at position B may be approximately 100 μW / cm 2 to approximately 6,500 μW / cm 2 , or about 125μW / cm 2 to approximately 3,000 μW / cm 2 The blue light intensity at position D can be about 70 μW / cm 2 to approximately 3,500 μW / cm 2 , or about 80μW / cm 2 to approximately 1,500 μW / cm 2 The ratio of the blue light intensity at position B to the blue light intensity at position D can be from about 0.25 to about 2.25, or from about 0.5 to about 2. The ratio of the blue light intensity at position B to the blue light intensity at position D can be from about 1.1 to about 2, and can represent an asymmetric halo on the wall. An asymmetric halo with greater light intensity on the wall above the trap can better attract flying arthropods approaching the trap from above, while still being less intrusive and / or noticeable to the user.

[0139] The ratio of the blue light intensity at position A to the blue light intensity at position D may be from about 3 to about 10, or from about 4 to about 7. The ratio of the ultraviolet light intensity at position A to the ultraviolet light intensity at position D may be from about 0.75 to about 5, or from about 1 to about 2. The ratio of the blue light intensity at position A to the blue light intensity at position B may be from about 1.5 to about 10, or from about 2 to about 5. The ratio of the ultraviolet light intensity at position A to the ultraviolet light intensity at position B may be from about 1.5 to about 10, or from about 2 to about 9.

[0140] The light at locations I, J, and G represents light escaping from the trap and can be visible to a user, an arthropod, or both. It can be desirable to limit the intensity of light escaping from the trap in order to make the trap less disruptive to a user and / or noticeable by a user while still providing sufficient light intensity (blue light, ultraviolet light, or both) to attract arthropods. The blue light intensity at location I can be about 3 μW / cm 2 to about 80 μW / cm 2 , or about 3 μW / cm 2 to about 15 μW / cm 2 , or about 25 μW / cm 2 to about 80 μW / cm 2 . The ultraviolet light intensity at location I can be about 2 μW / cm 2 to about 100 μW / cm 2 , or about 2 μW / cm 2 to about 40 μW / cm 2 , or about 45 μW / cm 2 to about 100 μW / cm 2 .

[0141] The blue light intensity at location J can be about 40 μW / cm 2 to about 1,500 μW / cm 2 , or about 50 μW / cm 2 to about 500 μW / cm 2 . The ultraviolet light intensity at location J can be about 3 μW / cm 2 to about 25 μW / cm 2 , or about 15 μW / cm 2 to about 25 μW / cm 2 , or about 3 μW / cm 2 to about 8 μW / cm 2 . The ratio of blue light intensity to ultraviolet light intensity at location J can be about 2 to about 25, or about 5 to about 21.

[0142] The blue light intensity at location G can be about 3 μW / cm 2 to about 100 μW / cm 2 , or about 4 μW / cm 2 to about 60 μW / cm 2 . The ultraviolet light intensity at location G can be less than about 35 μW / cm 2 or less than about 10 μW / cm 2 .

[0143] The intensity of light exiting the top of the trap can be greater than the intensity of light exiting the sides of the trap. Arthropods, particularly flying arthropods, can approach the trap from above, and it may be advantageous to have more light exit the top of the trap compared to the sides. The ratio of the intensity of blue light at position J to the intensity of blue light at position I can be from about 1 to about 15, or from about 2 to about 12. The ratio of the intensity of ultraviolet light at position J to the intensity of ultraviolet light at position I can be from about 0.1 to about 2.

[0144] The intensity of blue light on the wall above the trap, as represented by the light measured at position B, can be greater than the intensity of blue light leaving the trap, as represented by the light measured at position G. While the light leaving the trap, as represented by the light measured at position G, can help attract arthropods to the trap, it is believed that having a greater light intensity on the wall, as represented by the light measured at position B, can help attract arthropods closer to the adhesive disposed on the surface of the trap insert facing the light source / LED. The ratio of the blue light intensity at position B to the blue light intensity at position G can be from about 5 to about 55.

[0145] Similarly, the light intensity on the surface of the trap insert (which has the adhesive disposed thereon) facing the light source / LED, as represented by the light measured at position F, can be greater than the light intensity on the wall directly behind the trap, as represented by the light measured at position A. This can ensure that arthropods attracted to the vicinity of the trap are mostly lured to the adhesive surface, where they will be immobilized. The ratio of the blue light intensity at position F to the blue light intensity at position A can be from about 1.1 to about 10, or from about 1.5 to about 5. The ratio of the ultraviolet light intensity at position F to the ultraviolet light intensity at position A can be from about 1.1 to about 15, or from about 1.5 to about 10.

[0146] combination

[0147] A. An insert comprising: a) a substrate and a frame for supporting the substrate, wherein a surface of the substrate has an adhesive disposed thereon; and b) a graspable tab extending from the frame at a second end of the insert, wherein the insert is configured for insertion into an arthropod trapping device, the adhesive being for trapping arthropods, and wherein the graspable tab is substantially free of adhesive.

[0148] B. An insert comprising: a) a substrate and a frame for supporting the substrate, wherein a surface of the substrate has an adhesive disposed thereon; and b) a downwardly depending tab extending from the frame at a first end of the insert, wherein the insert is configured for insertion into an arthropod trapping device including a slot for receiving the downwardly depending tab and the adhesive for trapping arthropods.

[0149] C. The insert of paragraph A, wherein the insert further includes a downwardly depending tab extending from a bottom edge of the frame, and the arthropod trap includes a slot for receiving the downwardly depending tab.

[0150] D. The insert of paragraph B, wherein the insert further comprises a grippable tab extending from the frame at the second end of the insert, preferably wherein the grippable tab is substantially free of adhesive.

[0151] E. An insert according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein when the insert is inserted into the arthropod trap, the surface of the substrate having the adhesive disposed thereon faces the LED in the arthropod trap, and the downwardly depending tab activates a switch in the arthropod trap to energize the LED.

[0152] F. An insert according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the substrate is curved, corrugated, textured, or a combination thereof, preferably the substrate is curved, more preferably the substrate is concave-convex.

[0153] G. The insert of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the insert includes a mounting bracket spaced from the adhesive surface of the insert and located at a first end of the insert, wherein the adhesive surface of the insert and the bracket define an opening in the insert.

[0154] H. An insert according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the substrate comprises a polymer, fiber or carbon-based material.

[0155] I. The insert of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the substrate, the adhesive, or both are transparent or translucent.

[0156] J. The insert of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the substrate, the adhesive, or both transmit greater than about 80% of blue light, preferably greater than about 90% of blue light.

[0157] K. The insert of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the substrate, the adhesive, or both transmit less than about 80% of ultraviolet light, preferably less than about 50% of ultraviolet light, and more preferably less than about 30% of ultraviolet light.

[0158] L. An arthropod trapping device comprising: a housing including a base and a mask coupled to the base, the base being configured to communicate with and receive power from a power source, wherein at least one LED is mounted on the base, the mask being configured to receive an insert including a mask-facing surface and an LED-facing surface, wherein an adhesive for trapping arthropods is disposed on the LED-facing surface of the insert, wherein the at least one LED is configured to emit light toward the LED-facing surface of the mask, wherein the light is reflected from the mask, from the insert, or from a combination thereof.

[0159] M. An arthropod trapping device comprising: a housing including a base and a mask coupled to the base, the base being configured to communicate with and receive power from a power source, wherein at least one LED is mounted on the base, the mask being configured to receive an insert comprising a surface facing the mask and a surface facing the LED, wherein an adhesive for trapping arthropods is disposed on the surface of the insert facing the LED, and the adhesive surface area is greater than or equal to a projected area of ​​the device.

[0160] N. An arthropod trapping device comprising: a housing including a base and a shield coupled to the base, the base being configured to communicate with and receive power from a power source, wherein at least one LED is mounted on the base, the shield being configured to receive an insert including a shield-facing surface and an LED-facing surface, wherein an adhesive for trapping arthropods is disposed on the LED-facing surface of the insert, wherein the shield overhangs the base, and preferably, an outwardly facing wall of the base and an insert-facing surface of the shield define an opening in the housing.

[0161] O. The arthropod trap of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein at least one LED has a peak wavelength of about 350 nm to about 500 nm.

[0162] P. The arthropod trap of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein at least one LED has a peak wavelength of about 400 nm to about 500 nm.

[0163] Q. The arthropod trap of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein at least one LED has a peak wavelength of about 350 nm to about 400 nm.

[0164] R. The arthropod trap of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein at least one LED has a peak wavelength of about 350 nm to about 400 nm, and at least one LED has a peak wavelength of about 400 nm to about 500 nm.

[0165] S. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein at least one LED has a peak wavelength of about 400 nm to about 500 nm and emits light in a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface of the mask facing the LED.

[0166] T. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein at least one LED has a peak wavelength of about 350 nm to about 400 nm and emits light in a direction substantially parallel to the surface of the mask facing the LED.

[0167] U. An arthropod trapping device according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the projected area of ​​the device is about 40 cm 2 to about 120cm 2 , preferably 50cm 2 to about 100cm 2 , more preferably about 65 cm 2 to about 90cm 2 .

[0168] V. The arthropod trapping device of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the surface area of ​​the adhesive disposed on the LED-facing surface of the insert is approximately 40 cm 2 to about 180cm 2 , preferably 50cm 2 to about 160cm 2 , more preferably about 75 cm 2 to about

[0169] 155cm 2 .

[0170] W. An arthropod trapping device according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the adhesive for trapping arthropods is provided on a surface of the insert that faces the mask.

[0171] X. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein one or more

[0172] A conductive prong protrudes from the base, preferably the conductive prong is insertable into an electrical outlet. Y. The arthropod trapping device of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the base includes a slot for receiving an insert.

[0173] Z. The arthropod trapping device according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the insert comprises a substrate and a frame for supporting the substrate, preferably the substrate has a surface facing the LED and a surface facing the mask, more preferably, the adhesive is provided on the surface facing the LED.

[0174] on the surface of the LED.

[0175] AA. The arthropod trap according to paragraph W, wherein the substrate is curved, concave-convex, wrinkled, textured, or a combination thereof, preferably, the substrate is concave-convex. BB. The arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the mask is curved.

[0176] Curved, preferably, the mask is concave-convex.

[0177] CC. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the shield overhangs the base, and preferably the outwardly facing wall of the base and the insert-facing surface of the shield define an opening in the housing.

[0178] DD. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the mask includes a recess for receiving a graspable tab of the insert.

[0179] EE. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the mask includes at least one rail for receiving an insert.

[0180] FF. An arthropod trap according to paragraph BB, wherein the insert includes a flange configured to slide into the insert receiving recess of the mask.

[0181] GG. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein each LED has a cone angle of about 20° to about 180°.

[0182] HH. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the base comprises a switch, a circuit board or a combination thereof, preferably wherein the switch comprises a mechanical switch, an optical switch, an electronic switch, an electromechanical switch or a Hall effect sensor.

[0183] II. An arthropod trapping device according to paragraph EE, wherein the circuit board is configured to vary the voltage applied to the LED, preferably wherein the LED illuminates intermittently.

[0184] JJ. A method of using an arthropod trapping device according to any of the preceding paragraphs, the method comprising the steps of inserting the insert into the housing and engaging the base with a power source.

[0185] KK. The method of paragraph GG, wherein the base includes one or more conductive pins,

[0186] and engaging the base with the power source includes inserting the conductive prongs into the power outlet. LL. The method of paragraph GG, further comprising removing the insert from the housing

[0187] and the step of handling the insert, preferably without contacting the adhesive or arthropod debris adhered thereto.

[0188] MM. The method of paragraph II, wherein removing the insert from the mask deactivates a switch in the base to de-energize the LED.

[0189] NN. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the mask comprises a polymer, fiber or carbon-based material.

[0190] OO. The arthropod trap of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the power source comprises an electrical outlet or batteries.

[0191] PP. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the base comprises an energy stabilizer configured to provide a constant voltage to the LED, preferably the energy stabilizer comprises a full-wave rectifier circuit.

[0192] QQ. The arthropod trapping device according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the intensity, peak wavelength, frequency and / or intermittency of the light emitted by each LED can be independently adjusted. RR. The arthropod trapping device according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the insert

[0193] Contains chemical attractant.

[0194] SS. The arthropod trap of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the mask is configured to receive an insert including a graspable tab, wherein the mask includes a recess configured to receive the graspable tab of the insert.

[0195] TT. An arthropod trap according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the mask comprises at least one rail, preferably at least one rail comprises an expanded opening.

[0196] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

[0197] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or the benefit of, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art to any of the presently disclosed or claimed inventions, or that it, by itself or in combination with any one or more of the references, proposes, suggests, or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0198] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is therefore intended that all such changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention be encompassed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An insert, comprising: a) a curved substrate having a first longitudinal centerline and a frame for supporting the substrate, wherein the curved substrate has a concave surface having an adhesive disposed thereon for trapping arthropods, wherein the frame includes a first side edge in an upper longitudinal portion and a second side edge in a lower longitudinal portion; b) a graspable tab extending from said first side edge of said frame; and c) a mounting bracket spaced apart from the adhesive surface of the insert, wherein the mounting bracket extends from one longitudinal side edge of the frame to an opposite longitudinal side edge and is connected to the frame between the first side edge and the second side edge, wherein the insert includes a downwardly depending tab extending from the mounting bracket, the downwardly depending tab having a second longitudinal centerline laterally offset from the first longitudinal centerline, and wherein the graspable tab is substantially free of adhesive, the curved base of the insert and the mounting bracket defining an opening in the insert.

2. The insert of claim 1 , wherein the insert is configured for insertion into an arthropod trapping device, the arthropod trapping device including a slot for receiving the downwardly depending tab, and the adhesive is used to trap arthropods.

3. An insert according to claim 2, wherein when the insert is inserted into the arthropod trap, the surface of the substrate having the adhesive disposed thereon faces the LED in the arthropod trap, and the downwardly depending tab activates a switch in the arthropod trap to energize the LED.

4. An arthropod trapping device, comprising: A housing comprising a base and a shield coupled to the base, the base being configured to communicate with and receive power from a power source, wherein at least one LED is mounted on the base, the shield being configured to receive an insert comprising a shield-facing surface and an LED-facing surface, wherein the insert is the insert of claim 1, wherein an adhesive for trapping arthropods is disposed on the LED-facing surface of the insert, wherein the at least one LED is configured to emit light toward the LED-facing surface of the shield, wherein the light is reflected from the shield, from the insert, or from a combination thereof.

5. The arthropod trapping device according to claim 4, wherein the surface area of ​​the adhesive is greater than or equal to the projected area of ​​the device.

6. The arthropod trapping device of claim 4, wherein the cover is suspended above the base.

7. The arthropod trapping device of claim 4, wherein the outwardly facing wall of the base and the insert-facing surface of the mask define an opening in the housing.

8. The arthropod trapping device of claim 4, wherein at least one LED has a peak wavelength of 400 nm to 600 nm, and at least one other LED has a peak wavelength of 350 nm to 400 nm, or At least one LED has a peak wavelength of 400 nm to 600 nm or 350 nm to 400 nm.

9. The arthropod trapping device of claim 4, wherein the mask is curved, wherein the mask includes a recessed portion and / or at least one guide rail for receiving a grippable tab of the insert.

10. The arthropod trapping device of claim 9, wherein the insert includes a flange configured to slide into the guide track of the mask.

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