Pest traps

Abstract

A pest trap includes a body. A first cavity connected to the body has an opening arranged to allow pests to enter the first cavity, and a movable closure for the opening of the first cavity is present. A second cavity connected to the body also has an opening arranged to allow pests to enter the second cavity, and similarly has a movable closure for the opening of the second cavity. The pest trap is arranged to close the movable closure for the opening of the first or second cavity in response to a sensor mechanism detecting the presence of a pest in the first or second cavity, and to activate a killing mechanism to release fluid into the first or second cavity to kill the pest.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to pest traps. More particularly, but not exclusively, this invention relates to pest traps that kill pests detected in the trap by releasing a fluid such as carbon dioxide. The invention also relates to a set of components for a pest trap, and a method for setting up a pest trap. Background Technology

[0002] Rodent traps that use carbon dioxide to kill rodents have been around for some time. WO 2002 / 030189 A1 (Rentokil Initial UK Limited), published April 18, 2002, discloses a rodent trap having an inner cavity with an entrance at one end. The rodent trap includes an electronic control device that includes a sensor device. When a rodent is detected in the cavity, a cover is moved to close the entrance to the inner cavity, and carbon dioxide gas is released into the cavity, thereby killing the rodent by asphyxiation.

[0003] While such traps can be effective, they have various drawbacks. For example, once a trap catches a rodent, it cannot catch any other rodents until the operator empties and resets the trap, or replaces it. As another example, because the electronic controls and sensor devices of rodent traps are arranged to catch specific types of rodents and / or those exhibiting specific behaviors, rodent traps cannot be used for other types of rodents or behaviors, and different rodent traps would be required.

[0004] The present invention seeks to solve and / or mitigate some or all of the above-mentioned problems. Alternatively and / or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved pest trap. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a pest trap is provided, comprising:

[0006] main body;

[0007] A first cavity, connected to the main body, includes an opening arranged to allow harmful animals to enter the first cavity;

[0008] A movable closure for the opening of the first cavity;

[0009] A second cavity, which is connected to the main body, includes an opening arranged to allow harmful animals to enter the second cavity;

[0010] A movable closure for the opening of the second cavity;

[0011] A sensor mechanism arranged to detect the presence of a harmful animal in a first or second cavity;

[0012] A killing mechanism arranged to release fluid into a first or second chamber to kill harmful animals within the first or second chamber when the killing mechanism is activated;

[0013] The pest trap is configured to close a movable closure of the opening to the first cavity in response to a sensor mechanism detecting the presence of a pest in the first cavity, and to activate a killing mechanism to release fluid into the first cavity; and

[0014] The pest trap is configured to close a movable closure for the opening of the second chamber in response to a sensor mechanism detecting the presence of a pest in the second chamber, and to activate a killing mechanism to release fluid into the second chamber.

[0015] Each of the first and second chambers can capture pests independently. For each chamber, a movable closure closes the opening when a pest is detected. The closure prevents the pest from escaping and also retains fluid within the chamber along with the pest, allowing it to be used to kill the pest. By having separate first and second chambers, while a pest is captured in one chamber, the other chamber can still be used to capture more pests, thus allowing for the capture of more pests even while waiting for the operator to empty and reset the trap.

[0016] The first cavity and the second cavity may each have a first end and a second end. The first cavity and the second cavity may have openings at both ends and corresponding movable closures, allowing a harmful animal to enter from either end of each cavity. Preferably, the first end is opposite to the second end. If a harmful animal is aware of the second opening and believes that it can leave the cavity through it, it is more likely to enter either the first cavity or the second cavity.

[0017] The sensor mechanism may include a first sensor mechanism for detecting harmful animals in a first cavity and a second sensor mechanism for detecting harmful animals in a second cavity.

[0018] The killing mechanism may include a first killing mechanism that releases fluid into a first chamber and a second killing mechanism that releases fluid into a second chamber.

[0019] The first cavity can be located on the first surface of the main body, and the second cavity can be located on the second surface of the main body. In this case, it is preferable that the first surface of the main body is opposite to the second surface of the main body.

[0020] Advantageously, the first chamber is removably attached to the body. This allows for easy removal of harmful animals trapped in the first chamber and also allows for complete replacement of the first chamber if necessary for reasons such as hygiene. It also allows the harmful animal trap to be configured as a single-chamber trap if desired. The second chamber is also advantageously removably attached to the body.

[0021] Advantageously, the subject includes killing institutions.

[0022] Advantageously, the body includes a movable closure for an opening in the first cavity. The body also advantageously includes a movable closure for an opening in the second cavity. Advantageously, the body includes a movable closure for each opening in each cavity.

[0023] Preferably, the fluid is carbon dioxide gas. This kills the harmful animal trapped in the first or second chamber by asphyxiation. It should be understood that other fluids, such as toxic gases or liquids, may also be used.

[0024] Preferably, the killing mechanism includes a first container containing fluid released into a first chamber; and a second container containing fluid released into a second chamber. In this case, the killing mechanism preferably includes: a first puncture mechanism comprising a first biased spear and a first latch holding the first biased spear in a ready position, wherein when the first latch is released, the first biased spear penetrates the first container to release fluid from the first container into the first chamber; and a second puncture mechanism comprising a second biased spear and a second latch holding the second biased spear in a ready position, wherein when the second latch is released, the second biased spear penetrates the second container to release fluid from the second container into the second chamber. The containers may be, for example, two containers containing pressurized carbon dioxide, in which case, once a container is punctured, pressurization drives carbon dioxide into either the first or second chamber.

[0025] Advantageously, the killing mechanism also includes a rotary motor, arranged such that when the motor is driven in a first direction, the killing mechanism releases a first latch; and when the motor is driven in the opposite direction, the killing mechanism releases a second latch. This allows fluid to be released in either one or both cavities using only a single triggering device, as needed to detect harmful animals in the chambers.

[0026] Advantageously, the tip of the first biased spear penetrating the first container has a tapered cross-section. Similarly, the tip of the second biased spear penetrating the second container also has a cross-shaped cross-section. This shape has been found to be particularly effective in piercing containers, while also allowing fluid within the container to escape while the spear remains embedded.

[0027] Advantageously, the sensor mechanism is removably attached to the body. In this case, the body may include at least one rotatable arm that can move between a locked position in which the sensor mechanism is held in place on the body and an unlocked position in which the sensor mechanism can be removed from the body. The sensor mechanism may use an infrared sensor to detect the presence of a harmful animal in the first or second cavity. The sensor mechanism may use an ultrasonic sensor to detect the presence of a harmful animal in the first or second cavity. The sensor mechanism may detect the presence of a harmful animal in the first or second cavity by sensing the movement of a movable arm extending into the first or second cavity. Any other suitable type of sensor may be used, such as a capacitive sensor or a camera.

[0028] Different types of sensor mechanisms can be used with the same trap to detect different types of harmful animals and / or different behaviors by means of removably attached sensor mechanisms and, as described above (but not limited to), different types of sensor mechanisms.

[0029] Pest traps can be rodent traps. Alternatively, pest traps can be insect traps. Pest traps can be any suitable type or combination of types for pests.

[0030] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, a pest trap is provided, comprising:

[0031] main body;

[0032] A cavity, which is connected to the body, includes an opening arranged to allow harmful animals to enter the cavity;

[0033] A movable closure for the opening of a cavity;

[0034] A sensor mechanism arranged to detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity;

[0035] Killing institutions, including:

[0036] A container containing fluid.

[0037] A puncture mechanism comprising a biased spear and a latch holding the biased spear in place, wherein, when the latch is released, the biased spear penetrates the container to release fluid from the container into a cavity;

[0038] The pest trap is arranged such that, in response to a sensor mechanism detecting the presence of a pest in the cavity, a movable closure of the opening to the first cavity is closed, and the latch of the puncture mechanism is released, allowing fluid in the container to be released into the cavity to kill the pest detected within it; and

[0039] The tip of the biased spear that penetrates the container has a tapered cross-shaped section.

[0040] This shape has been found to be particularly effective when piercing containers, while also allowing fluid inside the container to escape while the spear remains embedded within it.

[0041] Advantageously, the cavity can be removably attached to the body.

[0042] Advantageously, the subject includes killing institutions.

[0043] Advantageously, the body includes a movable closure for the opening of the cavity.

[0044] Preferably, the fluid is carbon dioxide gas.

[0045] Advantageously, the sensor mechanism is removably attached to the body. In this case, the body may include at least one rotatable arm movable between a locked position in which the sensor mechanism is held in place on the body and an unlocked position in which the sensor mechanism can be removed from the body. The sensor mechanism may use an infrared sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity. The sensor mechanism may use an ultrasonic sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity. The sensor mechanism may detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity by sensing the movement of a movable arm extending into the cavity.

[0046] Pest traps can be rodent traps. Alternatively, pest traps can be insect traps. Pest traps can be any suitable type or combination of types for pests.

[0047] According to a third embodiment of the present invention, a pest trap is provided, comprising:

[0048] main body;

[0049] A cavity, which is connected to the body, includes an opening arranged to allow harmful animals to enter the cavity;

[0050] A movable closure for the opening of a cavity;

[0051] A sensor mechanism arranged to detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity;

[0052] A killing mechanism arranged to release fluid into a cavity to kill harmful animals inside the cavity when the killing mechanism is activated;

[0053] The pest trap is configured to close a movable closure for the cavity opening in response to a sensor mechanism detecting the presence of a pest in the cavity, and to activate a killing mechanism to release fluid into the cavity; and

[0054] The sensor mechanism is removably attached to the main body.

[0055] With removably attachable sensor mechanisms, different types of sensor mechanisms can be used with the same trap to detect different types of pests and / or different behaviors.

[0056] The body may include at least one rotatable arm that can move between a locked position in which the sensor mechanism is held in place on the body and an unlocked position in which the sensor mechanism can be removed from the body.

[0057] The sensor mechanism can use an infrared sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity. The sensor mechanism can also use an ultrasonic sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity. Alternatively, the sensor mechanism can detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity by sensing the movement of a movable arm extending into the cavity.

[0058] Advantageously, the cavity can be removed and attached to the main body.

[0059] Advantageously, the subject includes killing institutions.

[0060] Advantageously, the body includes a movable closure for the opening of the cavity.

[0061] Preferably, the fluid is carbon dioxide gas.

[0062] Preferably, the killing mechanism includes a container containing fluid for release into the cavity. In this case, advantageously, the killing mechanism includes a piercing mechanism comprising a biased spear and a latch holding the biased spear in place, wherein, when the latch is released, the biased spear penetrates the container to release fluid from the container into the cavity;

[0063] Pest traps can be rodent traps. Alternatively, pest traps can be insect traps. Pest traps can be any suitable type or combination of types for pests.

[0064] According to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, a kit is provided, the kit including the pest trap as described above and at least two sensor mechanisms arranged to detect the presence of pests using different physical properties.

[0065] At least two sensor mechanisms can use physical properties selected from the following group to detect the presence of harmful animals in the cavity: infrared waves; ultrasound; movement of a movable arm.

[0066] According to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, a method for setting up a harmful animal trap as described above is provided, the method comprising the following steps:

[0067] Choose a sensor mechanism from multiple sensor mechanisms arranged to detect the presence of harmful animals using different physical properties;

[0068] Attach the selected sensor mechanism to the pest trap.

[0069] Of course, it should be understood that features described with respect to one aspect of the invention can be incorporated into other aspects of the invention. For example, the method of the invention can be combined with any features described with reference to the apparatus of the invention, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0070] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, wherein:

[0071] Figure 1 A perspective view of a pest trap according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0072] Figure 2a and Figure 2b A perspective view of the main body of a pest trap according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0073] Figure 2c and Figure 2d A perspective view of the main body and the second cavity according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0074] Figure 3 A perspective view of a sensor according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0075] Figure 4 A perspective view of a pest trap according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0076] Figure 5a A bottom view of a pest trap according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0077] Figure 5b A bottom view of a pest trap according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0078] Figures 5c to 5f A perspective view of a pest trap according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0079] Figure 6 A perspective view of the killing mechanism according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0080] Figures 7a to 7d A perspective view of a service key according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0081] Now refer to Figures 1 to 7dThe pest trap according to a first embodiment of the present invention is described herein. The pest trap according to the first embodiment of the present invention is a rodent trap.

[0082] Figure 1 A perspective view of a rodent trap 10 is shown. The rodent trap 10 includes a main body 100, a first cavity 200, and a second cavity 300. The first cavity 200 and the second cavity 300 are respectively connected to opposite surfaces of the main body 100.

[0083] Each of the first cavity 200 and the second cavity 300 is connected to the body 100 via a lower end hinge, thereby allowing each of the first cavity 200 and the second cavity 300 to... Figure 4 As shown, it is open. At the top of each of the first cavity 200 and the second cavity 300, a latch 214 is provided to secure the first cavity 200 and the second cavity 300 to the body 100.

[0084] The first cavity 200 includes an opening 202 at one end, which has a sufficiently large diameter to allow rodents such as mice to enter. The second cavity 300 also includes an opening 302 at one end, similar to the opening 202. The first cavity 200 and the second cavity 300 each have corresponding additional openings 203 and 303 at their respective opening ends opposite to the openings 202 and 302, respectively. The corresponding opening of the first cavity 200 is located in… Figure 4 As can be seen in the text.

[0085] In other embodiments of the invention, the opening has a sufficiently large diameter to allow, for example, a rat to enter the cavity.

[0086] The main body includes a battery cover 102, under which is accommodated a Figure 4 The battery 103 is shown. The battery cover 102 is also connected to the body via a latch (not shown). Each of the latches 214 (including the latches of the battery cover 102) can be opened by inserting the service key 600 (shown in FIG. 7) into the corresponding pair of holes 104, 210, 212, as discussed in more detail later.

[0087] The main body also includes a control system cover 170, beneath which is housed an electronic control system that controls the operation of the trap as described below. In addition to controlling the operation of the rodent trap 10, the control system may have other functions in embodiments of the invention. The control system can communicate with a remote system via, for example, wireless communication (e.g., via a mobile phone network, Wi-Fi, or as an "Internet of Things" device) to provide an alarm when a rodent is captured. The control system can communicate with the remote system via "long reach" technology. The control system may include an accelerometer to ensure the safe operation of the unit and / or a temperature sensor to ensure proper functioning when the rodent trap 10 is triggered. After the rodent trap is put into use, the accelerometer can also detect whether the rodent trap has been tampered with or moved. The rodent trap 10 may include a magnetic sensor on a movable portion of the rodent trap 10, which the control system can use to ensure that the operator correctly sets the trap and to provide a warning to the operator if the trap is not set correctly.

[0088] Figure 2a A perspective view of the main body 100 of the rodent trap 10 is shown. Figure 2a The sensor 400, which is separate from the body 100, is also shown. When the first cavity 200 is in place on the side of the body 100, the sensor 400 is inside the first cavity 200 and can therefore detect the presence of rodents inside the first cavity 200.

[0089] The sensor 400 includes an infrared sensor. The sensor 400 also includes a pair of semi-circular recesses 406 located on opposite edges of the sensor 400, the recesses 406 extending outward from the edges of the sensor 400 to form protrusions.

[0090] To attach sensor 400 to body 100, each of the movable arms 106 rotates in opposite directions 108, allowing sensor 400 to move in a direction 410 toward body 100. Once sensor 400 abuts against body 100, the rotatable arms 106 return to their original positions. Figure 2a The sensor is positioned as shown, thus locking it against the main body 100.

[0091] Figure 2b A perspective view of the body 100 is shown, in which the sensor 400 is attached to the body 100. As shown, when the sensor 400 is attached to the body, each recess 406 engages with a pivot portion 106a of the rotatable arm 106, such that each recess 406 and the pivot portion 106a hold the sensor 400 in place on the body 100.

[0092] When the sensor 400 is attached to the body 100, the sensor 400 communicates electronically with the control system via a plug (not shown) on the back of the sensor 400, which is inserted into a corresponding hole between the movable arms 106 on the side of the body 100.

[0093] In other embodiments of the invention, the rotatable arm 106 may be biased toward a locked position, for example, or may be freely rotatable. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the sensor may be attached to the body 100 in various other suitable ways.

[0094] A corresponding sensor (not shown) is removably mounted on the opposite side of the body 100 such that the corresponding sensor is located within the second cavity 200 and can detect the presence of rodents within the second cavity 200.

[0095] It can also be seen that the carbon dioxide container 152a is contained within the main body 100, and the carbon dioxide container 152a is described in more detail below.

[0096] Figure 2c and Figure 2d Perspective views of the main body 100 are shown from different angles. The main body 100 is shown as follows: after the sensor 400 detects a rodent in the first cavity 200, the killing mechanism 150 has been activated by the control system and moved to the triggered position. To illustrate the internal workings of the rodent trap 10, the first cavity 200 has been removed.

[0097] The first cavity 200 includes a pair of doors 120a and 120b. A spring 121a biases door 120a toward a "closed" position to close opening 202 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 As shown), and the corresponding spring 121b biases the door 120b toward the "closed" position to close the opening 203 (as shown). Figure 4 (As shown). When the rodent trap 10 is set, doors 120a and 120b are pushed into the main body 100 into the "open" position, where they are held in place by latches. In the position shown, the kill mechanism 150 is activated by the control system, releasing the latches and causing doors 120a and 120b to move to the closed position by springs 121a and 121b. With doors 120a and 120b in the closed position, rodents in the first chamber cannot escape. Doors 120a and 120b also reduce the amount of gas that can enter or exit the first chamber 200.

[0098] As described in more detail below, activation of the killing mechanism 150 via the control system also causes the carbon dioxide container 152a to be punctured. This releases the carbon dioxide from the container 152a, which then rushes into the first chamber 200 through the hole 154, suffocating the rodent trapped within.

[0099] When a rodent is detected in the second chamber 300, the rodent trap 10 operates in essentially the same manner, wherein another carbon dioxide container 152b is punctured to fill the second chamber 300 with carbon dioxide.

[0100] In embodiments of this disclosure, a pair of doors are arranged to swing from an open position to a closed position about a rotation axis orthogonal to the plane of the cavity opening. The pair of doors can be connected via a common shaft. The pair of doors can be biased toward the closed position. Connecting the pair of doors via a common shaft means that each pair of doors requires only one latch, such that when the latch is released, both doors in the pair move simultaneously from the open position to the closed position. In embodiments of the invention, the doors are contained within recesses in the body.

[0101] Figure 3 A perspective view of a sensor 450 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown, which can be used in place of sensor 400. The sensor includes a switch 452, the arm of which extends from the housing. A bait attachment 456 is disposed on the arm 452, the bait attachment 456 comprising three spaced discs to which bait, bedding material, etc., can be attached. When a rodent obtains bait, bedding material, etc., from the bait attachment 456, the rodent moves the arm 452 of the switch 452, thereby triggering the sensor 450.

[0102] In embodiments of the invention, the switch can resist movement until a force of a threshold amount is reached. This threshold amount can be high enough that an insect will not trigger the sensor. The threshold amount can also ensure that only a force greater than or equal to that of a rodent pressing the bait attachment will trigger the sensor.

[0103] It should be understood that various other sensors can be used in other embodiments of the invention to more effectively detect different types of pests or different pest behaviors. For example, sensors that use other physical characteristics to detect the presence of rodents. The sensor can be a transducer. For example, an ultrasonic sensor, a capacitive sensor, and / or a microphone can be used. The sensor can be a camera. The camera can generate an output, and the control system can be configured to interpret / classify the camera output, thereby activating the killing mechanism. Activation of the killing mechanism can depend on a pre-selected pest type. Other sensors with different calibrations can be used. For example, a sensor designed to detect mice can use infrared light and has a low detection threshold, while a sensor designed to detect rats can also use infrared light but has a higher detection threshold. A sensor designed for rats may not reliably detect mice, but it is also less prone to false positives (e.g., small insects are also unlikely to trigger a false positive).

[0104] In the method according to an embodiment of the invention, when setting up a pest trap, the operator can select one or more suitable sensors to use with the pest trap. According to embodiments of the invention, a complete set of components for the pest trap and different types of sensors can be provided for use in this method. Depending on the type of pest to be trapped, a suitable sensor can be selected to use with the pest trap. For example, by selecting a suitable sensor, the pest trap can be configured as an insect trap. Selecting a suitable sensor may include selecting from at least two sensors of the same type (e.g., a pair of ultrasonic sensors), but at least two sensors of the same type are calibrated / configured to respond to different pests. This can be achieved by calibrating a threshold of the sensor that triggers the killing mechanism to activate. Selecting a suitable sensor may include selecting from at least two sensors of different types (e.g., an infrared sensor and an ultrasonic sensor). For example, a first type of sensor can enable the pest trap to be configured to trap rodents, while a second type of sensor can enable the pest trap to be configured to trap insects. The selection of sensors can also enable the pest trap to distinguish between different species of rodents (e.g., such as rats and mice) and / or different species of insects.

[0105] Figure 4 A perspective view of the rodent trap 10 is shown, in which the first cavity 200 is opened. As described above, the first cavity 200 is connected to the lower edge of the body 100 by a pair of hinges 216, which allows the cavity 200 to swing downward and outward away from the body 100.

[0106] The first cavity 200 includes a pair of latches 214 at its top. When the cavity 200 is pivoted about a hinge 216 such that the latches 214 engage with hooks 214a, the latches 214 engage with hooks 214a to keep the first cavity 200 closed relative to the body 100. The first cavity 200 is also provided with keyholes 210, 212, which are arranged to receive a service key 600. When the service key is inserted into the keyholes 210, 212, the latches 214 are pressed down and disengaged from the hooks 214a, allowing the cavity 200 to rotate freely about its hinge 216. The second cavity 300 has corresponding features.

[0107] Figure 4 The battery cover 102 is also shown with the battery removed, thus revealing the battery 103 housed in the body 100. The battery 103 is used to power components of the rodent trap 10, such as the control system 170, the killing mechanism 150, the sensor 400, etc.

[0108] Figure 4 A container 152a for carbon dioxide is also shown. It can be seen that container 152a is removable, and therefore can be replaced after use.

[0109] Figure 5a A lower view of the rodent trap 100 is shown. The rodent trap 100 is shown without showing the cavities 200 and 300 attached to the body 100.

[0110] The killing mechanism 150 is operated by a single motor 156, which rotates a gear 156a. Gear 156a engages with a larger gear 158, in which only the toothed portion 158a includes teeth adapted to mesh with gear 156a. On the side of the larger gear 158 opposite the toothed portion 158a is a support 158b, which engages with a first end of an arm 151, the other end of which is attached to a pivot.

[0111] When the electric gear assembly 156 rotates clockwise 157a, the larger gear 158 rotates counterclockwise, and the pivot arm 151 rotates clockwise about its pivot axis, causing the body of the pivot arm 151 to move to the right. This causes the body of the pivot arm 151 to release the first latch 159a that holds the first spring-piercing arm 160a in place, causing the first spring-piercing arm 160a to move in the direction indicated by arrow 162a. This causes the first spring-piercing arm 160a to pierce the container 152a associated with the first cavity 200, thereby releasing carbon dioxide from the container 152a.

[0112] Similarly, when the electric gear assembly 156 rotates counterclockwise 157a, the larger gear rotates clockwise. This causes the pivot arm 151 to rotate counterclockwise about its pivot axis, causing the body of the pivot arm 151 to move to the left. This results in the body of the pivot arm 151 releasing the second latch 159b that holds the second spring-piercing arm 160b in place, causing the second spring-piercing arm 160b to move in the direction indicated by arrow 162b and pierce the container 152b associated with the second cavity 300.

[0113] In this way, by moving the gear in the desired direction, the killing mechanism 150 can kill the mouse detected in the first chamber 200 or the second chamber 300 as needed.

[0114] Figure 5b A lower side view of a rodent trap 100' according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. The rodent trap is shown without showing cavities 200 and 300. The same reference numerals denote... Figure 5a Features similar to those described in the text.

[0115] The killing mechanism 150' includes a motor that rotates gear 156a'. Gear 156a' drives a larger driven gear 158'. Gear 158' also engages at one end with arm 151'. Arm 151' includes a leaf spring 151a' that biases arm 151 towards a central position relative to rodent trap 100'. As gear 156a' rotates clockwise, driven gear 158a' rotates counterclockwise, causing arm 151' to pivot and also rotate counterclockwise. The counterclockwise movement of arm 151' (and therefore to the right relative to the page) causes latch 159a to release. Upon release of latch 159a', a spring-loaded piercing arm (not shown) is released in direction 162a' to pierce a container filled with carbon dioxide (also not shown).

[0116] Figures 5c to 5f A perspective view of a rodent trap 100' according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. The rodent trap is shown without showing cavities 200 and 300. Figures 5c to 5f The activation sequence of the rodent trap 100' is shown. Figure 5a A rodent trap in a ready position is shown: a pair of doors 120a', 120b' are in the open position (and, if shown, are recessed into the body); and a first spring-loaded piercing arm 160a' is in the ready position.

[0117] Figure 5dThe first step of the rodent trap 100' after triggering is shown. Gear 156a' rotates clockwise, thereby driving a larger gear 158' to rotate counterclockwise. Gear 158' is linked to arm 151'. As gear 158' rotates counterclockwise, arm 151' moves to the right (relative to the page), thereby releasing latch 153a'. When the trap is in the non-triggered state, latch 153a' holds doors 120a', 120b' in the open position.

[0118] Figure 5e Doors 120a' and 120b' are shown in the closed position after release of latch 153a'. Doors 120a' and 120b' are biased toward the closed position. Gear 156a' continues to rotate clockwise, causing gear 158' to move counterclockwise and arm 151' to move further to the right. The further rightward movement of arm 151' releases latch 159a'. The release of latch 159a' causes spring-loaded arm 160a' to move from the ready position to the triggered position. Figure 5f The killing mechanism is shown in the triggered position after the spring-loaded piercing arm 160a' moves from the standby position to the triggered position to pierce the container containing carbon dioxide.

[0119] Figure 6 A perspective view of the killing mechanism 150 is shown. The end of the first spring-loaded piercing arm 160a can be seen. This end contacts and pierces the container 152a to release carbon dioxide from it. The tapered end has a cross-shaped cross-section similar to that of a Phillips head screwdriver tip (when the cross-sectional plane is orthogonal to the central axis of the arm 160a). This allows the arm 160a to pierce the top of the container 152a while allowing carbon dioxide gas to escape between the gaps between the cross sections. Upon release, the carbon dioxide flows from the body 100 into the cavity 200 through the common hole 154.

[0120] Figures 7a to 7d A perspective view of a service key 600 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0121] Figure 7aA service key 600 is shown, which is used to disengage the latch 214 of cavity 200, allowing cavity 200 to rotate and open relative to the body. The service key 600 includes a pair of forks 602 that enter a keyhole 210 to depress the latch 214, disengaging it from a hook (not shown). The service key 600 also includes a magnet 601. In an embodiment of the invention, the magnet 601 is configured to interact with the body 100 to activate a display included in the body 100. In an embodiment of the invention, the magnet 601 is configured to activate the display and to select options and / or settings in a control system. For example, the options and / or settings may correspond to sensor calibration settings preloaded onto the control system.

[0122] Figure 7b It shows the use of with Figure 7a A service key 600 with similar functionality is shown. The fork of the service key is pushed into the keyhole 104 to disengage the latch from the hook, allowing the battery cover 102 to be removed and the battery 103 (not shown) to be accessed for example, to replace the battery 103 when it is depleted.

[0123] Figure 7c A service key 600 for detaching the tether 700 from the body 100 is shown. The tether has a base 702 and a cable 704. The base 702 is connected to one end of the cable 704, and a tether connector (not shown) is located at the other end of the cable 704. The base 702 can be secured to a rigid fixing surface by means of adhesive or by fastening devices such as screws or nails to prevent displacement or theft of the rodent trap.

[0124] Figure 7d The latching mechanism 190 for the tether 700 is shown in more detail. The tether engagement (not visible) is small enough to pass through the slit 192 in the latch 190. However, the tether engagement is too large to pass through the latch protrusion 194. Therefore, when the service key 600 is pushed into the keyhole, the fork 602 pushes the latch 190 open, thereby forcing the tether engagement through the slit 192, and the cable 704 and the tether engagement can be freely pulled out of the body 100.

[0125] In other embodiments of the invention, the base of the tether includes a reel of cable wound around a spring mechanism, allowing the cable to unwind from within the base, but the cable is biased toward winding around the reel within the base. This makes maintenance easier for the user / maintenance personnel, as the pest trap can be manipulated more readily without the constraints or inconvenience of a shorter, fixed-length cable.

[0126] Although the invention has been described and illustrated with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention is applicable to many different variations not specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A pest trap, comprising: main body; A first cavity, connected to the body, the first cavity including an opening arranged to allow harmful animals to enter the first cavity; A movable closure for the opening of the first cavity; A second cavity, connected to the main body, includes an opening arranged to allow harmful animals to enter the second cavity; A movable closure for the opening of the second cavity; A sensor mechanism arranged to detect the presence of a harmful animal in the first cavity or the second cavity; A killing mechanism, the killing mechanism being arranged to release fluid into the first cavity or the second cavity when the killing mechanism is activated to kill harmful animals within the first cavity or the second cavity; The pest trap is arranged to close the movable closure of the opening for the first cavity in response to the sensor mechanism detecting the presence of a pest in the first cavity, and to activate the killing mechanism to release the fluid into the first cavity; and The pest trap is arranged to close the movable closure of the opening for the second cavity in response to the sensor mechanism detecting the presence of a pest in the second cavity, and to activate the killing mechanism to release the fluid into the second cavity. The killing mechanism includes: A first container, the first container containing the fluid for release into the first cavity; and A second container, the second container containing the fluid for release into the second chamber. A first piercing mechanism, comprising a first biased spear and a first latch holding the first biased spear in a ready position, wherein, when the first latch is released, the first biased spear penetrates the first container to release the fluid in the first container into the first cavity; and The second puncture mechanism includes a second biased spear and a second latch that holds the second biased spear in a ready position, wherein, when the second latch is released, the second biased spear penetrates the second container to release the fluid in the second container into the second cavity. The killing mechanism further includes a rotary motor, and is arranged such that when the rotary motor is driven in a first direction, the killing mechanism releases the first latch; and when the rotary motor is driven in a direction opposite to the first direction, the killing mechanism releases the second latch.

2. The pest trap according to claim 1, wherein, The first cavity is located on the first surface of the body, and the second cavity is located on the second surface of the body.

3. The pest trap according to claim 2, wherein, The first surface of the main body is opposite to the second surface of the main body.

4. The pest trap according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The first cavity is removably attached to the body.

5. The pest trap according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The main body includes the killing mechanism.

6. The pest trap according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The main body includes a movable closure for the opening of the first cavity.

7. The pest trap according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The fluid is carbon dioxide gas.

8. The pest trap according to claim 1, wherein, The tip of the first biased spear that penetrates the first container has a tapered cross-shaped section.

9. The pest trap according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The sensor mechanism is removably attached to the body.

10. The pest trap according to claim 9, wherein, The body includes at least one rotatable arm that is movable between a locked position in which the sensor mechanism is held in place on the body and an unlocked position in which the sensor mechanism can be removed from the body.

11. The pest trap according to claim 9, wherein, The sensor mechanism uses an infrared sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the first or second cavity.

12. The pest trap according to claim 10, wherein, The sensor mechanism uses an infrared sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the first or second cavity.

13. The pest trap according to claim 9, wherein, The sensor mechanism uses an ultrasonic sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the first or second cavity.

14. The pest trap according to claim 10, wherein, The sensor mechanism uses an ultrasonic sensor to detect the presence of harmful animals in the first or second cavity.

15. The pest trap according to claim 9, wherein, The sensor mechanism detects the presence of harmful animals in the first or second cavity by sensing the movement of a movable arm extending into the first or second cavity.

16. The pest trap according to claim 10, wherein, The sensor mechanism detects the presence of harmful animals in the first or second cavity by sensing the movement of a movable arm extending into the first or second cavity.

Images