Insect trapper

Abstract

An insect trap comprising a body wherein the body comprises a base and a plurality of walls forming an interior of the insect trap; a capture area located in the interior and arranged to capture insects; at least one inlet opening into the interior of the insect trap; and a ramp at the entrance for the entry of insects into the interior of the insect trap. The ramp is flexible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an insect trap comprising a body, at least one inlet, and a trapping area. More specifically, but not exclusively, this invention relates to an insect trap including a flexible ramp. Background Technology

[0002] Insect traps are used for pest control and are known in the art. Insect traps are placed in areas where insects are known to be present, such as on the floor or walls of areas where insects have been previously found, or in places where insects may hide.

[0003] The placement of an insect trap is a key factor in its effectiveness. Typically, users will optimize this placement through trial and error, noting the approximate areas where the trap appears most effective. Alternatively, users can utilize more advanced insect traps that use cameras and image analysis to collect data on the captured insects; however, these solutions are significantly more expensive and require substantial computer processing.

[0004] Insect traps with adhesive (also known as adhesive traps) are known in the art. Insects enter the adhesive trap and adhere to the adhesive, thus being trapped. Alternative traps, such as snare traps, can also be used, which trap insects by having a pit that is usually hidden, into which the insect falls and cannot escape.

[0005] Insect traps are typically disposable and need to be replaced once they become full or ineffective. Disposable insect traps generate waste, and there are associated costs associated with regularly replacing them.

[0006] The present invention seeks to alleviate the above-mentioned problems. Alternatively or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved insect trap. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present invention provides an insect trap, comprising:

[0008] The main body, which includes and forms a basically enclosed interior of the insect trap, a cover, a base, and multiple walls,

[0009] The capture area is located inside and arranged to capture insects;

[0010] The first entrance, formed by holes in the first wall of the multi-walled structure, leads to the interior of the insect trap.

[0011] The second entrance is formed by holes in the second wall of the multiple walls and leads to the interior of the insect trap;

[0012] The first inlet is opposite to the second inlet, so that the catcher has two inlets at opposite ends of the main body.

[0013] Insects can enter through either the first or second entrance, thus allowing more insects to potentially enter the insect trap. Insects in the surrounding area on either side can enter the interior of the insect trap through one of the two entrances that serve as their path.

[0014] The essentially enclosed interior of an insect trap provides an attractive space for insects because it is warmer and / or darker than the surrounding area.

[0015] The insect trap can move between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the insect trap forms a basically enclosed interior. In the open configuration, the user can access the interior of the insect trap, for example, for maintenance or monitoring.

[0016] The trapping area may include an adhesive layer. Alternatively or additionally, the insect trap may include a descent section that allows the insect to enter the trapping area along the descent.

[0017] The essentially enclosed interior allows very little light, even if it comes from the surrounding area, to enter the insect trap. Those skilled in the art will understand that the essentially enclosed interior does not preclude the presence of openings within the body, such as openings that form entrances for insects to enter the trap.

[0018] The essentially enclosed interior ensures that when the insect trap is in its closed configuration, the insects trapped inside are not visible from the outside of the trap.

[0019] Each of the multiple walls can be planar, and adjacent walls can be substantially perpendicular to each other. The body can have a substantially cubic shape. The body can have a rectangular cross-section. Alternatively, the body can be any other suitable shape. For example, the walls can be curved, and the multiple walls can form a substantially cylindrical box with a circular cross-section.

[0020] The height of the main body can be less than or equal to 30 mm, preferably less than 25 mm. The length of the main body can be between 195 mm and 255 mm, preferably between 210 mm and 240 mm. The width of the main body can be between 70 mm and 130 mm, preferably between 80 mm and 120 mm. In this case, the height of the main body is preferably the distance extending between the upper surface of the cover and the lower surface of the base. The length of the main body is preferably the distance extending between two of the multiple walls, more preferably the distance between the first wall and the second wall. The width of the main body is preferably the distance extending between two of the multiple walls, more preferably the distance extending between the third wall and the fourth wall.

[0021] Insect traps can be used to capture insects with a height of at least 0.2 mm. The insects to be captured can include different species of beetles and cockroaches.

[0022] A first wall having a hole forming a first entrance can be opposite and / or face a second wall having a hole forming a second entrance. The first entrance can be in the path of an insect from a first side of the insect trap, and the second entrance can be in the path of an insect from a second opposite side of the insect trap, so that insects on both the first and second sides of the insect trap can enter the insect trap. The first wall can be parallel to the second wall. A third and fourth wall of the main body can extend between the ends of the first wall and the ends of the second wall.

[0023] The holes in the first wall and the second wall can be aligned along an axis parallel to the length of the insect trap's body. This axis can intersect the center of the hole in the first wall and the center of the hole in the second wall. This axis can also be perpendicular to the plane of the first and second walls. Alternatively, the holes can be offset from each other along the width of the body.

[0024] The insect trap may also include a partition located between the first and second inlets, wherein the partition is used to block light.

[0025] The partition prevents light entering the trap from the first entrance from being visible through the second entrance, or vice versa. The partition creates a darker, more attractive environment for insects entering through each entrance.

[0026] The divider can extend across the entire width of the interior of the insect trap. The divider can extend across the entire height of the interior of the insect trap.

[0027] The partition can be opaque, completely blocking light. Alternatively, the partition can be made of black and / or matte material.

[0028] The partition can be positioned midway along the length of the body. The partition can be located at a position between 40% and 60% of the length of the body, or at a position between 40% and 60% of the total distance between the first and second walls as measured from one of the walls. More preferably, it is located between 45% and 55% of the length of the body, or between 45% and 55% of the total distance between the first and second walls as measured from one of the walls.

[0029] The cover of the main body may include a partition that extends downward from the cover (preferably from the underside of the cover) into the interior of the catcher. The partition may be attached to / removed from the cover. Alternatively, the partition may be an indivisible part of the cover.

[0030] The third and fourth walls of the main body, extending along the length of the insect trap, may have guides for the partition. The guides may be recesses in each wall such that when the insect trap is in a closed configuration, the partition is located within the guides.

[0031] Alternatively, the base of the body may include a partition that extends upward from the base (preferably from the upper surface of the base) into the interior of the catcher. The partition may be attached to / removed from the base, or the partition may be an indivisible part of the base.

[0032] The divider can divide the trapping area of ​​the insect trap into first and second smaller sub-trapping areas, such that insects entering the trap from the first inlet are trapped in the first sub-trapping area, and insects entering the trap from the second inlet are trapped in the second sub-trapping area. The first sub-trapping area may have a surface area substantially the same as the second sub-trapping area.

[0033] The features discussed in relation to the first aspect of the invention can also be incorporated into the following aspects of the invention.

[0034] According to a second aspect of the invention, an insect trap is also provided, comprising:

[0035] The main body, comprising a cover, a base, and multiple walls forming a generally enclosed interior for the insect trap,

[0036] A trapping area, located inside and arranged to trap insects, and

[0037] At least one entrance leading to the interior of the insect trap;

[0038] The trapping area includes an adhesive layer for catching insects.

[0039] The adhesive layer in the trapping area remains effective for a longer period of time compared to if the trapping area were instead located in a substantially exposed interior. Specifically, the cover of the body reduces the amount of dust particles and / or fibers from the surrounding environment that fall onto the adhesive layer, thus diminishing its effectiveness. Insects crawl into the trap and onto the adhesive layer, where they are captured.

[0040] The cover of the main body can cover more than 50% of the capture area. Preferably, the cover of the main body covers the entire capture area.

[0041] At least one inlet may be formed by a hole in one of the plurality of walls. At least one inlet may be a first inlet, and the catcher may have an additional second inlet, as in the first aspect of the invention.

[0042] An adhesive layer may be located on the base of the main body, forming an adhesive bottom surface inside the insect trap. The adhesive layer may cover more than 50% of the surface area of ​​the main body base, preferably more than 70% of the surface area of ​​the main body base.

[0043] The insect trap may also include a removable plate, wherein the removable plate includes an adhesive layer for trapping insects, and the removable plate forms at least a portion of the trapping area of ​​the insect trap.

[0044] Preferably, the removable plate forms the trapping area of ​​the insect trap.

[0045] The base of the insect trap's main body may include a cavity. The cavity in the base may have a larger surface area than the base material, and the bottom interior of the trap is formed by the material boundary surrounding the cavity. The cavity in the base may be rectangular. Alternatively, the base may be entirely empty. Or, the base may be completely solid without a cavity.

[0046] When the removable plate is assembled with the body of the insect trap, the surface of the removable plate with the adhesive layer can occupy a cavity or empty space in the base of the body, such that the bottom surface of the insect trap is substantially (if not entirely) formed by the removable plate with the adhesive layer. Alternatively, the removable plate can rest on the surface of the solid base of the body.

[0047] The removable plate can be attached to the body of the insect trap by any suitable means. For example, the removable plate can be fixed to the boundary of the base of the body; alternatively, the removable plate can be fixed to at least one of a plurality of walls.

[0048] The adhesive layer forming the trapping area on the removable plate provides a more economical and cost-effective solution because the removable plate can be replaced with a new one once the adhesive becomes ineffective or the trapping area becomes full. Replacing the removable plate in an insect trap is an easy and cost-effective way to reuse the insect trap without replacing all its components.

[0049] The insect trap may also include a descending section leading to the trapping area, allowing insects that have entered the trap to fall onto the adhesive layer.

[0050] The height of the descending section can be between 5 mm and 10 mm, preferably about 7.5 mm.

[0051] The capture zone, including both the descent section and the adhesive layer, provides a more effective capture. Insects are retained within the capture zone because they are adhered to the adhesive layer and / or unable to climb out. Each capture method can be more effective for different species and sizes of insects. Therefore, a capture zone including both the descent section and the adhesive layer can provide effective capture for a wider range of insects compared to combining only one method into an insect trap.

[0052] The descent portion can be formed by any raised surface adjacent to or extending above the adhesive layer. For example, the height of the base of the insect trap adjacent to the trapping area can be greater than the height of the trapping area. The trapping area can be a pit. Alternatively or additionally, the insect can climb at least one ramp, allowing it to rise above the trapping area, and once the insect has crossed the innermost edge of at least one ramp, it falls into the descent portion into the trapping area. The ramp can extend above the trapping area, beyond its outer edge or perimeter.

[0053] The insect trap may include a partition located between a first inlet and a second inlet of the insect trap. This partition can be used to block light. The partition extends downwards from the cover of the main body to the interior, thereby separating the adhesive layer and forming two sub-trapping areas.

[0054] The features discussed with respect to the second aspect of the invention may be incorporated into the foregoing aspects or the following aspects of the invention.

[0055] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an insect trap is also provided, comprising:

[0056] The main body includes a base and multiple walls that form the interior of the insect trap.

[0057] A trapping area, located inside and arranged to trap insects.

[0058] At least one entrance, which leads to the interior of the insect trap, and

[0059] A ramp, located at the entrance, is used to allow insects to enter the interior of the insect trap.

[0060] Similar to insect traps according to other aspects of the invention, the body of the insect trap may also include a cover, such that the interior of the insect trap is substantially enclosed.

[0061] The insect trap may have a first entrance and a second entrance, each with a ramp. Insects can ascend via the first entrance and the first ramp to enter the interior of the insect trap, and insects can ascend via the second entrance and the second ramp to enter the interior of the insect trap.

[0062] Each slope can have an outermost edge furthest from the center of the interior of the insect trap, and an innermost edge closest to the center of the interior. The outermost edge of the slope can be tapered, and the thickness of the slope decreases from the innermost edge to the outermost edge.

[0063] A slope may include a supporting structure and a flexible layer. The flexible layer may be supported by the supporting structure. The flexible layer may extend beyond the supporting structure at the outermost edge of the slope, thus forming a tapering edge of the slope. The tapering edge of the slope formed by the flexible layer can rest on a floor where insect traps are placed.

[0064] The ramp can be attached to the main body of the insect trap via a supporting structure, while the flexible layer is used for insect climbing.

[0065] At least one ramp, or a first ramp and / or a second ramp, may be located outside the body of the insect trap, such that the ramp leads to and terminates at a corresponding opening in the body of the insect trap. Alternatively, at least one ramp, or a first ramp and / or a second ramp, may be entirely inside the insect trap, such that the ramp begins at the corresponding opening in the body of the insect trap, or even begins inside the insect trap. Alternatively, at least one ramp, or a first ramp and / or a second ramp, may span the opening in the body of the insect trap, such that the ramp begins outside the body of the insect trap and terminates inside the body of the insect trap.

[0066] The ramp can be integrated with the body of the insect trap. Alternatively, the ramp can be attached to and removed from the body of the insect trap. If the ramp can be attached to and removed from the body, it can be replaced if it is damaged or no longer effective, so that the insect trap does not need to be replaced due to the failure of a single component (i.e., the ramp). Any suitable means of attaching the ramp to the body can be used.

[0067] The insect trap may also include a descending section leading to the trapping area, so that insects that have entered the insect trap via the ramp fall from the edge of the ramp and fall down the descending section into the trapping area.

[0068] The descending section can be formed by any suitable structure, such as the options discussed with respect to the second aspect of the invention. The capture area can be below the highest point of the slope, thus forming the descending section.

[0069] The trapping area may include an adhesive layer for trapping insects.

[0070] The adhesive layer provides an additional means of keeping the captured insects within the capture area. The adhesive layer can essentially cover the entire surface area of ​​the capture area, and at least cover the area below the slope.

[0071] The upper surface of the slope can be textured.

[0072] In the case of a slope with a flexible layer, the flexible layer can be textured.

[0073] Insects are more likely to enter the trap via textured ramps, as the texture of the ramps encourages insects to walk along them and enter the trap.

[0074] The ramp can be textured, i.e., it is non-smooth. The surface of the ramp can have a surface roughness greater than 10 micrometers, more preferably greater than 15 micrometers. The ramp may include ridges on its upper surface, making the surface non-smooth.

[0075] The ramp or its flexible layer may be made of rubber or have a rubber coating. Alternatively, the ramp may be made of a flexible polymer material or any other suitable material.

[0076] The slope can be flexible. This way, when the insect trap is placed on an uneven surface, the slope can adapt to the uneven surface.

[0077] The ramp can have a tapering edge. The tapering edge or outermost edge of the ramp can maintain effective contact with the floor surface solely due to the weight of the catcher.

[0078] When the insect trap is placed on the floor, the outermost and lowest edge of the ramp can deform to conform to the floor surface. This prevents insects from climbing to the base of the trap's body, which might be raised above the floor due to imperfections in the floor surface.

[0079] The features discussed with respect to the third aspect of the invention may be incorporated into any or the following aspects of the foregoing aspects of the invention.

[0080] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an insect trap is also provided, comprising:

[0081] The main body includes a base and multiple walls that form the interior of the insect trap.

[0082] The trapping area, located inside and arranged to trap insects, and

[0083] A sensing system configured to sense the presence of an insect entering an insect trap along a sensing axis;

[0084] The sensing system includes: at least one transmitter configured to emit radiation along a sensing axis; and at least one receiver configured to receive radiation along the sensing axis, wherein the sensing system detects insects intersecting the sensing axis, thereby preventing radiation emitted by the transmitter from being received by the receiver.

[0085] The insect trap may also include at least one inlet, or a first inlet and a second inlet, through which insects enter the insect trap. As in other aspects of the invention, the body of the insect trap may also include a cover such that the cover forms a substantially enclosed interior of the insect trap.

[0086] The sensing system can be configured to collect data about insects entering the insect trap. This data may include the number, frequency, size, height, and / or appearance of the insects. Using the data, for example through data collection, data transmission, data processing, and / or data analysis, the insect trap can be improved by facilitating the optimization of its placement. The collected data can also improve the understanding of insect behavior.

[0087] The insect trap may also include a data transmission system configured to transmit data collected by the sensing system. The data transmission system may include a transmitter for transmitting data to a remote device. The transmitter may be configured to transmit data via a dedicated network system, via Wi-Fi, via cellular, and / or via Bluetooth.

[0088] At least one transmitter may be mounted on one side of the body of the insect trap, preferably on the third wall of a plurality of walls, and the receiver may be mounted on the opposite side of the body of the insect trap, preferably on the fourth wall of a plurality of walls.

[0089] Alternatively, the transmitter and receiver can be on the same side of the body, for example, mounted at the same location on one of a plurality of walls. In this case, the sensing system may also include a reflector. The reflector can be located on the side of the body opposite the transmitter and receiver, such that the reflector reflects radiation emitted from the transmitter back to the receiver.

[0090] The sensing axis can extend across the width of the insect trap. The sensing axis can be perpendicular to the wall of the body where the transmitter and / or receiver are mounted. The sensing axis can be parallel to a first and / or second wall of the body having an opening through which the insect can enter.

[0091] The sensing system (more specifically, at least one transmitter and at least one receiver forming a sensing pair) may include one or more suitable types of sensors for detecting the presence of insects. For example, the sensing system may include photoelectric sensors, such as through-beam sensors, wherein the transmitter emits red light along a sensing axis, which is then received by the receiver. Additionally or alternatively, the sensing system may include at least one motion sensor or any other suitable sensor(s).

[0092] At least one receiver can be configured to detect insects by measuring electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation being measured may not be within the visible spectrum.

[0093] The electromagnetic radiation measured by the receiver can have a wavelength of less than 380 nanometers. Alternatively or additionally, the electromagnetic radiation measured by the receiver can have a wavelength greater than 700 nanometers. This keeps the interior of the insect trap dark, thus attracting insects. The measured electromagnetic radiation can be infrared radiation with wavelengths between 780 nanometers and 1 millimeter.

[0094] The transmitter and receiver can be integrated with each other, adjacent to each other, or substantially in the same location. The receiver can record the presence of an insect when the signal emitted from the transmitter is not reflected back to the receiver (i.e., a beam-interrupting sensor). Alternatively, the receiver can measure infrared radiation and record the presence of an insect based on the amount of infrared radiation absorbed. The sensing system may also include a reflector for reflecting the signal emitted from the transmitter back to the receiver. A point sensor can be a retroreflection sensor.

[0095] The sensor can be a binary sensor, for example, a receiver that detects the presence or absence of a light beam and determines the presence of an insect when the beam has been interrupted / blocked. Alternatively, the sensor can be an analog sensor, such as a receiver that measures the intensity of infrared radiation.

[0096] The sensing system may include;

[0097] A first sensing pair, comprising a first transmitter and a first receiver; and

[0098] The second sensing pair includes a second transmitter and a second receiver;

[0099] The first sensing axis extends from the first transmitter, and the second sensing axis extends from the second transmitter.

[0100] The second sensing pair can be located at different positions along the length of the body. The first sensing pair can be located adjacent to the first inlet of the trap, and the second sensing pair can be located adjacent to the second inlet of the trap. The sensing system collects data on insects entering each inlet separately. In the case where the insect trap also includes a partition located between the two inlets, the first sensing pair can be used to detect insects entering the first side of the partitioned trapping area, and the second sensing pair can be used to detect insects entering the second side of the partitioned trapping area.

[0101] The sensing pair and thus the sensing axis can be located at the innermost edge of the slope along the length of the main body. In this way, if the insect trap has a descending section leading to the trapping area, the sensing pair only detects the insect as it is about to fall onto the descending section, thereby minimizing the number of false positives that may occur if the sensing system detects an insect that subsequently leaves the insect trap and does not fall into the trapping area.

[0102] In the case where the capture area has an adhesive layer, the sensing pair and thus the sensing axis can be located at a position along the periphery of the adhesive layer, so that it only detects insects that are about to climb onto the adhesive and be captured.

[0103] The first sensing pair can be at a first height, and the second sensing pair can be at a second height; wherein the height is measured from the base of the body, and the second height is greater than the first height; and wherein both the first sensing axis and the second sensing axis are located at a fixed distance along the length of the body of the insect trap, such that the first sensing pair and the second sensing pair can be used to detect the height of the insect inside the insect trap.

[0104] Arranging the first and second sensor pairs in a manner that collects data on the height of insects entering the insect trap is a simpler and more cost-effective way to collect data on insects, especially when compared to solutions that use cameras and image processing to collect data on insects.

[0105] If the insect triggers the first sensing pair but not the second sensing pair, this indicates that the insect has a height between the first and second heights. If the insect triggers both the first and second sensing pairs, this indicates that the insect's height is equal to or greater than the second height.

[0106] The first height can be less than or equal to 0.2 mm. The second height can be 4 mm; alternatively, the second height can be greater than 4 mm and less than 12 mm.

[0107] The sensing system may include multiple sensor pairs arranged in various ways, with some sensor pairs aligned along the length of the insect trap's body and others aligned along the height of the insect trap.

[0108] The sensing system may include four sensing pairs: a first sensing pair and a third sensing pair at a first height, and a second sensing pair and a fourth sensing pair at a second height. The first and second sensing pairs are located at a first distance along the length of the body of the insect trap, such that the first and second sensing pairs can be used to detect the height of an insect that has entered through the first inlet. The third and fourth sensing pairs are located at a second distance along the length of the body of the insect trap, such that the third and fourth sensing pairs can be used to detect the height of an insect that has entered through the second inlet.

[0109] The sensing system may also include a camera for detecting insects that enter the insect trap.

[0110] The camera can be used in conjunction with some image processing to generate further data about the insects inside the insect trap.

[0111] The sensing system may include a reset mechanism configured to reset data collection from the sensing system.

[0112] The reset mechanism can be used for data processing to record changes in position, allowing the data to be used to optimize the future placement of the insect trap. Alternatively, the reset mechanism can be used when the replaceable plate with the adhesive layer is replaced, allowing the user to monitor when the insect trap may have become full and thus replace the replaceable plate again.

[0113] The reset mechanism may include an actuable button on the surface of the cover, which can be pushed to trigger a reset. Alternatively or additionally, the reset mechanism may be fully electronic and triggered by a command from a user, for example, via a remote device.

[0114] The optional features discussed with respect to the fourth aspect of the invention are applicable to the foregoing aspects of the invention.

[0115] Any aspect of this invention may be combined with any of the foregoing or subsequent optional features discussed, regardless of which aspect is being discussed. The following features may be incorporated into any aspect of this invention and may be combined in any way with the previously disclosed optional features.

[0116] The outer surface of the main body can be smooth, so that insects cannot crawl over it.

[0117] The outer surface of the main body can have a surface roughness of less than or equal to 0.1 micrometers. The insect trap is only effective when an insect travels into the interior of the insect trap, therefore the insect trap is designed to prevent insects from climbing onto it.

[0118] At least part of the surface inside the insect trap may be smooth, preventing insects from crawling out of the trapping area or encouraging them to crawl into it.

[0119] The inner surfaces of multiple walls can be relatively smooth, thus preventing insects from climbing up the walls.

[0120] The inside of an insect trap can be black.

[0121] Insect traps can be made of black materials, preferably black plastic.

[0122] At least a portion of the interior of the insect trap may be matte, so that the inner surface of the insect trap reflects limited light.

[0123] The total height of the insect trap can be less than 40mm, preferably less than 35mm.

[0124] The main body may include a hinge that allows the insect trap to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein the interior of the insect trap is not visible when the insect trap is in the closed configuration.

[0125] Ideally, dead insects should be invisible while the insect trap is in use; however, it is advantageous to be able to observe and access the interior of the insect trap for maintenance and monitoring. This is particularly advantageous when the components of the insect trap, such as one or more ramps and / or plates with adhesive layers, are replaceable.

[0126] The hinge can be located between the cover and one of the multiple walls of the insect trap body.

[0127] Of course, it should be understood that the features described with respect to one aspect of the invention can be incorporated into other aspects of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0128] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, wherein:

[0129] Figure 1 A perspective view of the insect trap according to a first embodiment of the present invention in a closed configuration is shown;

[0130] Figure 2a A perspective side view of an insect trap in a partially open configuration is shown;

[0131] Figure 2b A perspective end view of an insect trap in a partially open configuration is shown;

[0132] Figure 3 A perspective end view of the insect trap in its fully open configuration is shown;

[0133] Figure 4 An exploded view of the insect trap is shown; and

[0134] Figure 5 A side view of the insect trap is shown, illustrating its cross-section along its length. Detailed Implementation

[0135] Insect trap 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 The diagram shows a closed configuration. Figure 2a and Figure 2b The diagram shows a partially open configuration, and... Figure 3 The diagram shows the open configuration.

[0136] The insect trap 100 has an overall cubic shape formed by four substantially perpendicular walls: a first wall 121, a second wall 122, a third wall 123, and a fourth wall 124. The first wall 121 and the second wall 122 are substantially parallel to each other, and the third wall 123 and the fourth wall 124 are substantially parallel to each other. The first wall 121 and the second wall 122 extend along the width of the insect trap 100 and are shorter than the third wall 123 and the fourth wall 124, which extend along the length of the insect trap 100.

[0137] The insect trap 100 has a base 110 and a cover 130, which, when in a closed configuration, form a closed interior with the walls 121, 122, 123, and 124. The cover 130 is rotatable relative to the base 110 and the walls 121, 122, 123, and 124 via a hinge 140 located at the top edge of the curved fourth wall 124, allowing the cover to... Figure 3 The open configuration shown is Figure 1 The movement occurs between the closed configurations shown.

[0138] The insect trap 100 is 200 mm long, 100 mm wide, and 30 mm high (measured from the bottom of the base 110 to the top of the cover 130).

[0139] The insect trap 100 has two inlets 200a and 200b. The first inlet 200a is formed by a hole 210a in the first wall 121. The second inlet 200b is formed by a hole 210b in the second wall 122.

[0140] The insect trap 100 has two ramps 220a and 220b located at two entrances 200a and 200b, respectively. The first ramp 220a has a tapered edge at the hole 210a in the first wall 121 and extends upward and into the interior of the insect trap 100 along its length.

[0141] Slopes 220a and 220b are formed by a support frame and a rubber layer. The support frame is made of plastic, and the rubber layer has a surface roughness of 15 micrometers. The rubber layer extends beyond the edge of the support frame, so that the rubber layer is unsupported at its free end. The free end of the rubber layer is furthest from the interior of the insect trap 100, and because it is not supported by the frame, it is flexible and can move with the contours of the uneven surface.

[0142] Inside the insect trap 100, there is a trapping area 300 with an adhesive layer 310. In this embodiment, the trapping area 300 is bounded by the base 110. In other embodiments of the invention, the trapping area 300 is on the upper surface of the completely solid base 110.

[0143] Two ramps 220a and 220b terminate above the capture area 300. The distance between the upper surface of the ramp and the capture area is 6.5 mm, thus forming a descending section / pit for entering the capture area 300.

[0144] Battery 430 (to be referenced) is used to power the sensing system and data transmission system. Figure 5 (Described in more detail) It is held in place by the cover 130. When the insect trap 100 is in the closed configuration, the battery 430 rests along the inner surface of the fourth wall 224, which has a curved shape corresponding to the shape of the battery 430.

[0145] The cover 130 has a partition 131 extending from the inner surface of the cover 130 into the interior of the insect trap 100. The partition 131 is opaque and matte, and prevents light entering the trap from the first inlet 200a from being visible from the second inlet 200b, or prevents light entering the trap from the second inlet 200b from being visible from the first inlet 200a. When the insect trap 100 is in a closed configuration, the partition 131 extends across the entire height of the interior of the insect trap 100, substantially dividing the trapping area 300 into two sub-trapping areas 311, 312 (e.g., ...). Figure 5 (As shown). Insects entering through the first entrance 200a are captured in the first sub-capture area 311, and insects entering through the second entrance 200b are captured in the second sub-capture area 312.

[0146] The reset button 420 is located on the upper surface of the cover 130.

[0147] The insect trap 100 is made of black plastic. Most of the interior surface area of ​​the insect trap 100 has a rough, matte finish that reflects minimal light. The areas of the inner surfaces of the third wall 123 and the fourth wall 124 adjacent to the trapping area 300 are smooth. The exterior of the insect trap 100 has a smooth, glossy surface with low surface roughness to prevent insects from crawling across the outer surface of the cover 130 and the walls 121, 122, 123, and 124 of the insect trap 100.

[0148] Figure 4 The exploded view of the components of the insect trap 100 shown illustrates how the insect trap 100 is assembled.

[0149] The cover 130, base 110, and hinge 140 connecting them are a single integral component. Ramps 220a and 220b are separate components and can be mounted to the base 110. Walls 121, 122, 123, and 124 are integral chassis and can be mounted to both the base 110 and the cover 130. Divider 131 can be mounted to the inner surface of the cover 130 and is positioned midway along the length of the chassis during assembly.

[0150] In this embodiment, the adhesive layer 310 is located on a removable plate 320 that can be fixed to the base 110. When needed, the removable plate 320 with adhesive can be removed and replaced with another removable plate 320 with a new adhesive layer 310.

[0151] In some embodiments, the new adhesive layer 310 is covered by a film that can be removed by the user when in use, thereby allowing the adhesive to remain effective for a longer period of time.

[0152] A cross-section of the insect trap 100 along its length is shown in... Figure 5 The image shows the interior of the insect trap 100 and some of its internal components. Reference will now be made to... Figure 5 The sensing system of the insect trap 100 is discussed.

[0153] The first sensing subsystem 410 is located on the first side of the partition 131, closer to the first inlet 200a, while the second sensing subsystem 420 is located on the second side of the partition 131, closer to the second inlet 200b. The first sensing subsystem 410 and the second sensing subsystem 420 have the same structure and operate in the same manner.

[0154] The first sensing subsystem 410 has two infrared radiation (IR) sensors 411 and 412. The lower sensor 412 is positioned such that it can detect the presence of insects with a height of 0.2 mm or more. The higher sensor 411 is located directly above the lower sensor 412 such that it can detect the presence of insects with a height of more than 4 mm.

[0155] The first sensing subsystem 410 is located at the edge of the first slope 220a, so that the first sensing subsystem can sense the insect just before it falls into the capture area 300 (especially the first sub-capture area 311).

[0156] The second sensing subsystem 220 also has two infrared sensors (not shown) and a lens 423 above the sensors to protect them. The first sensing subsystem 410 also has a lens (not shown).

[0157] The sensing system of the insect trap 100 also includes electronic components not shown in the figure. The sensing system is connected to a data transmission system that transmits the collected information about the insect to a remote device.

[0158] In use, the user assembles the insect trap 100 and places it where they expect insects to be. Insects in the surrounding area are attracted to the dark interior of the insect trap 100 and crawl into the trap through one of the two entrances 200a, 200b, ascending along the corresponding ramps 220a, 220b. The partition 131 prevents the interior of the insect trap 100 from being too bright, thus preventing insects from being deterred from entering, despite the presence of the two entrances 200a, 200b.

[0159] The flexible nature of ramps 220a and 220b allows their outer edges to conform to the ground even when the ground is uneven, thus allowing insects to easily climb onto the ramps and enter the insect trap 100. Furthermore, because the surfaces of ramps 220a and 220b are matte and textured, insects can easily climb onto them. In contrast, the outer surface of the insect trap 100, as well as its inner surface excluding the ramps, is smooth, thus encouraging insects to (only) ascend the ramps within the insect trap 100.

[0160] Once an insect reaches the edge of the slope, the corresponding sensing subsystem will detect its presence. If only the lower sensor 412 detects the insect, it is identified as a small insect with a height between 0.2 mm and less than 4 mm. If the higher sensor 411 also detects the insect, it is identified as a large insect with a height of more than 4 mm. This data is stored and transmitted to a remote device via a data transmission system. Once the insect has climbed off the edge of the slope, it will fall into the capture area and adhere to the adhesive layer.

[0161] Over time, more insects will be captured in the trapping area 300. This can be monitored by the user by viewing the data collected by the sensing system. Once the trapping area 300 is full, or the adhesive is no longer effective, the user opens the insect trap 100 and replaces the removable plate 320. The user also presses the reset button 420 to reset the records.

[0162] Users may also want to place the insect trap 100 in different locations and use the collected data to determine which location is most effective for catching insects.

[0163] 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.

[0164] In the foregoing description, if any whole or element having a known, obvious, or foreseeable equivalent is mentioned, such equivalent is incorporated herein as if set forth separately. The true scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the claims, and should be interpreted to include any such equivalent. The reader should also recognize that wholes or features of the invention described as preferred, advantageous, convenient, etc., are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that while these optional wholes or features may be advantageous in some embodiments of the invention, they may not be desirable and therefore may not be present in other embodiments.

Claims

1. An insect trap, comprising: The main body includes a base and multiple walls forming the interior of the insect trap; A capturing area, which is located within the interior and arranged to capture insects; At least one entrance, the at least one entrance leading to the interior of the insect trap; as well as A ramp located at the entrance allows insects to enter the interior of the insect trap. The slope is flexible.

2. The insect trap according to claim 1, wherein, The upper surface of the slope is textured.

3. The insect trap according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The insect trap also includes a descending section leading to the trapping area, such that insects that have entered the interior of the insect trap via the ramp fall from the edge of the ramp and descend along the descending section into the trapping area.

4. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The trapping area includes an adhesive layer for trapping insects.

5. The insect trap of claim 4, further comprising a removable plate, wherein the removable plate includes the adhesive layer for trapping insects, the removable plate forming at least a portion of the trapping area of ​​the insect trap.

6. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The main body also includes a lid, and wherein the lid, the base, and the plurality of walls form a substantially enclosed interior of the insect trap; The insect trap further includes a second inlet leading to the interior of the insect trap, the second inlet being formed by a hole in a second wall of the plurality of walls, wherein the first inlet is opposite to the second inlet, such that the trap has two inlets at opposite ends of the main body; and The insect trap further includes a partition located between the first inlet and the second inlet, wherein the partition is used to block light.

7. The insect trap according to claim 6, wherein, The partition extends downward from the cover of the main body into the interior, thereby dividing the capture area and forming two sub-capture areas.

8. An insect trap, comprising: The main body, wherein the main body includes a cover, a base and a plurality of walls forming a substantially enclosed interior of the insect trap; A capturing area, which is located within the interior and arranged to capture insects; A first inlet, the first inlet leading to the interior of the insect trap, the first inlet being formed by a hole in a first wall of the plurality of walls; as well as A second inlet, which leads to the interior of the insect trap, is formed by a hole in a second wall of the plurality of walls; The first inlet is opposite to the second inlet, such that the catcher has two inlets at opposite ends of the main body; and The insect trap further includes a partition located between the first inlet and the second inlet, wherein the partition is used to block light.

9. The insect trap according to claim 8, wherein, The partition extends downward from the cover of the main body into the interior, thereby dividing the capture area and forming two sub-capture areas.

10. The insect trap according to claim 8 or 9, wherein, The trapping area includes an adhesive layer for trapping insects.

11. The insect trap of claim 10, further comprising a removable plate, wherein the removable plate includes the adhesive layer for trapping insects, the removable plate forming at least a portion of the trapping area of ​​the insect trap.

12. The insect trap according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein, The insect trap also includes a descending section leading to the trapping area, so that insects that have entered the interior of the insect trap fall onto the adhesive layer.

13. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The outer surface of the main body is smooth, preventing insects from climbing over it.

14. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least a portion of the inner surface of the insect trap is smooth, preventing insects from crawling out of the trapping area.

15. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The interior of the insect trap is black.

16. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least a portion of the interior of the insect trap is matte, so that the inner surface of the insect trap reflects minimal light.

17. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The total height of the insect trap is less than 40 mm, preferably less than 35 mm.

18. The insect trap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The main body includes a hinge that allows the insect trap to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein the interior of the insect trap is not visible when the insect trap is in the closed configuration.

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