Device and method for spraying insecticide using an ultrasonic atomizer

Abstract

Devices and methods are presented that allow for the dissemination of a ground fog loaded with a pesticide or insect repellent, particularly for residential or agricultural use. The devices presented herein are particularly advantageous for the temporary and localized eradication or control of Aedes aegypti, Culex spp., and Anopheles spp. in residential, healthcare, or agricultural environments. Advantageously, the contemplated systems and methods allow for the targeted as well as non-targeted application of a pesticide or insect repellent in a conceptually and technically simple manner.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. provisional patent application No. 63 / 547,530, filed November 6, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to the field of fogging machines and insecticide spraying, and more particularly to the use of ultrasonic transducers to adjust the density of the output fog, and thus adjust the height and diffusion range of the output fog, in order to repel or kill mosquitoes such as Aedes aegypti and Culex spec. near the ground. Background Technology

[0003] The background description includes information that may help in understanding this disclosure. It is not acknowledged that any information provided herein is prior art or related to the currently claimed invention, nor is it acknowledged that any specific or implied references to any publications are prior art.

[0004] All publications and patent applications herein are incorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. If a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent with or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition provided herein shall prevail, and the definition in the incorporated reference shall not apply.

[0005] Among other genera and species of insects, *Aedes aegypti* (ankle mosquito), *Culex* (common mosquito), and *Anopheles* (swamp mosquito) are the most important vectors for a variety of viral diseases, such as West Nile fever, dengue fever, chikungunya virus disease, Zika fever, Mayaro fever, and yellow fever, as well as parasitic diseases, such as malaria. In addition to these serious health risks, bites from mosquitoes of these species are characterized by itchy rashes and localized swelling, which can lead to secondary infections far beyond simple discomfort. However, it is noteworthy that despite the pervasiveness and wide geographic distribution of these mosquitoes, effective methods of repelling or eliminating them, especially in residential environments, are not readily available, despite various marketing claims. For example, CO2- or UV-based traps attract a variety of insects but are typically limited to small areas and / or flying mosquitoes. Insecticide sprays and the smoke from handheld or backpack atomizers dissipate easily in the environment, especially outdoors.

[0006] To avoid the drawbacks of trapping insects, fogging machines have been used to repel insects, as described, for example, in US 2,662,332. Here, the insecticide is vaporized in a heated chamber, and the resulting vapor is then fed into an airflow driven by a blower, which is then released into the surrounding environment. Similarly, US 7,712,249 and US 8,296,993 disclose ultrasonic repellent humidifiers that generate insecticide vapor that is released into the surrounding environment. While conceptually simple and convenient for home use, the insecticide vapor dissipates rapidly into the ambient atmosphere. In a further example, fogging machines such as those disclosed in CN 202635410U utilize gravity to mix water and calcium oxide to generate high heat and evaporate the insecticide. However, due to the high temperature, the resulting fog rises rapidly and dissipates back into the environment. This lack of spatial control is particularly disadvantageous when the insects are terrestrial or perch on or near the ground, such as on leaves (e.g., grass blades), as is the case with Aedes aegypti and Culex mosquitoes. Although these mosquitoes hatch from stagnant water and can fly at least a certain distance, they spend most of their lives near or on the ground before seeking blood food. Therefore, fast-dissipating insecticides will be largely ineffective in repelling or eliminating these pests.

[0007] On the other hand, specialized fog machines have been developed for stage and concert environments. These machines generate large amounts of stage fog that can be directed to the ground and does not easily dissipate, as disclosed in, for example, US 11,154,791 and US2018 / 0221785. Here, a baffle assembly is used to mix the fog stream generated by a conventional atomizer with water droplets generated ultrasonically, thereby increasing the fog density. However, such fog machines are typically quite complex, often requiring professional setup and operation, and are prohibitively expensive for residential use. Furthermore, due to their specific application in stage and theater environments, these devices are not used, or even intended for, the dissemination of insecticides or repellents.

[0008] Therefore, although various fog-generating devices and methods are known in the art, all or almost all of them have various drawbacks. Thus, there remains a need for improved devices and methods that allow the generation of ground fog loaded with pesticides or repellents, which can be applied in residential or agricultural environments without the need for complex equipment or trained personnel. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The inventors have discovered an apparatus and method for generating a ground fog containing an insect repellent and / or insecticide, which advantageously covers a target area with a dense and persistent fog, thereby repelling or eliminating ground-dwelling insects, and in particular adult mosquitoes such as Aedes aegypti, Culex, and Anopheles. Preferably, the fog is generated in a portable unit, kept close to the ground, and can be dispersed from one or more outlets, which may or may not be connected to an elongated guiding conduit having optional openings and / or one or more dispensing compartments.

[0010] In one aspect of the subject matter of this invention, a method for temporarily repelling or eliminating mosquitoes in a target area includes the following steps: generating a primary fog from an atomizing liquid containing an insecticide or repellent; exposing the primary fog to ultrasonic water mist to generate a secondary fog containing an insecticide or repellent, wherein the secondary fog has a density greater than that of the primary fog; and directing the secondary fog to a target area, wherein the target area is at least 25 m², wherein the secondary fog is distributed at a height not exceeding 1 m above the target area; and wherein the secondary fog is maintained in the target area for at least 1 minute to repel or eliminate mosquitoes (e.g., Aedes aegypti, Culex, or Anopheles).

[0011] Typically, but not necessarily, the secondary fog has a duration of at least 2 minutes, and / or most of the secondary fog settles within the target area. It is also generally envisioned that the primary fog is generated using thermal atomization. Therefore, the primary fog may contain propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and / or glycerin. Where necessary, the primary fog may also contain humectants and / or detergents.

[0012] In some embodiments, the insecticide is envisioned to be an adult insecticide. In further embodiments, the insecticide is a natural insecticide (e.g., natural pyrethroids or essential oils), and in still further embodiments, the insecticide is a synthetic insecticide (e.g., organophosphates, synthetic pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, picaridin, permethrin, allethrin, carbamates, or organochlorines). In a further envisioned embodiment, the ultrasonic water mist is generated by one or more fixed-distance transducers, which are, for example, coupled to a floating frame floating on an aqueous medium. It will be readily understood that the ultrasonic water mist will comprise water mist particles (typically water particles) with controllable particle size and / or density, wherein the particle size and / or density of the water mist particles is controlled by a power and / or frequency controller operatively coupled to the ultrasonic transducer.

[0013] Furthermore, it is envisioned that the secondary mist is guided by one or more outlet nozzles. If necessary, the secondary mist can also be guided by a guide channel extending at least 3 m from a location relative to the secondary mist, wherein the guide channel may have multiple openings allowing portions of the secondary mist to escape. Additionally, one or more distribution chambers may be coupled to the guide channel, wherein these chambers are configured to distribute the secondary mist outward from the distribution chambers.

[0014] It will be readily understood that the target area can be a residential area (e.g., a front yard, backyard, bedroom, waiting room, or community assembly area) or an agricultural area (e.g., an orchard, vineyard, or berry growing area). In most cases, the secondary fog will be directed to the target area for less than 10 minutes. Preferably, both the primary and secondary fogs are generated in a single portable container, and both are generated using a portable power source. Most typically, the temperature of the secondary fog is within 10°C of the ambient temperature, thus stabilizing the fog and allowing it to remain within the target area without rising.

[0015] Therefore, the inventors also envision an insecticide atomizing device comprising a housing that at least partially surrounds an atomizer, an atomized insecticide reservoir, and an ultrasonic atomizer reservoir. In such a device, the atomized insecticide reservoir is fluidly coupled to the atomizer, and the atomizer is configured to generate a primary mist containing the atomized insecticide and deliver the primary mist to the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir. The ultrasonic atomizer reservoir is configured to contain an aqueous solution and an ultrasonic transducer unit, wherein the ultrasonic transducer unit is configured to increase the humidity above the aqueous solution and increase the density of the primary mist, thereby generating a secondary mist. The ultrasonic transducer unit is further preferably configured to maintain a fixed distance between the vibrating surface of the transducer and the surface of the aqueous solution, and the housing includes an outlet for releasing the secondary mist.

[0016] In some embodiments, the housing is configured as a portable container and / or the atomizer includes a thermal atomizer. Furthermore, it is envisioned that the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir has sufficient volume to (1) contain at least 5 liters of aqueous solution, and (2) allow a density increase of at least 10% between the primary and secondary mists. Additionally or alternatively, it is envisioned that the ultrasonic transducer unit is configured to float in the aqueous solution and houses at least one ultrasonic transducer coupled to the unit such that the ultrasonic transducer maintains a fixed distance from the surface of the aqueous solution.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the atomizing device also includes a control unit operatively coupled to the atomizer and / or the ultrasonic transducer. For example, the control unit may be configured to measure and / or regulate (1) the temperature within the housing, (2) the flow rate of insecticide from the atomizing insecticide reservoir to the atomizer, (3) the atomization rate of the atomizer, and / or (4) the activity of the transducer. Additionally or alternatively, the atomizing device may include an interface configured to allow an operator to provide input to the control unit. For example, the interface may be configured to allow an operator to specify a desired height of the secondary fog above the ground, and / or may be configured to allow an operator to specify a desired insecticide concentration of the secondary fog.

[0018] Where necessary, the atomizing device may also include an elongated guide tube coupled to an output port, wherein the guide channel optionally has multiple openings allowing secondary mist to escape along a portion of the length of the guide channel. Furthermore, the envisioned atomizing device may also include a dispensing chamber coupled to the guide channel and configured to dispense secondary mist outward from the dispensing chamber.

[0019] Various objectives, features, aspects and advantages will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary atomizing device according to the subject matter of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary atomizing device having an elongated guide tube and a dispensing chamber according to the subject matter of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The inventors have discovered apparatuses and methods for insecticide atomization that convert primary insecticide mist into a denser secondary mist, thereby producing a ground fog with a reduced or even completely eliminated tendency to rise from the ground. In fact, the ground fog produced using the systems and methods envisioned herein will remain at a very low altitude and can persist for extended periods. It will be readily understood that such ground fog is particularly desirable in situations where insects primarily inhabit or reside on or near the ground, for example, in the case of various mosquito species that act as vectors for serious diseases.

[0023] As described in more detail below, primary fog is typically generated by heating and vaporizing a carrier fluid containing an insecticide or repellent (e.g., aqueous propylene glycol), wherein the vaporized fluid subsequently condenses into a fog containing the insecticide or repellent. This generated fog is then introduced into a high-humidity zone where small water particles (e.g., generated by ultrasonic atomization) bind to or are absorbed by fog particles, producing a heavier and denser secondary fog. By using appropriate primary fog carrier fluids, primary fog generation rates, and ultrasonic treatment parameters, the characteristics of the secondary fog can be tuned to desired "suspension time" (i.e., the time from secondary fog generation to fog settling or dissipation) and distribution height, allowing for targeting of adult mosquitoes. Furthermore, due to the concentrated secondary fog treatment, mosquitoes can be repelled or killed in a very short time, thus at least temporarily eliminating ground-dwelling insects from the target area.

[0024] For example, Figure 1 An insecticide atomizing device 100 is schematically shown, wherein an atomizer 110, an atomized insecticide reservoir 112, and an ultrasonic atomizer reservoir 104 are housed within a housing 101. Here, the atomizer 110 generates a primary mist 114 containing the atomized insecticide, and this primary mist is delivered to the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir 104 containing an aqueous solution 106. An ultrasonic transducer unit 140 is coupled to a floating frame 141 and has one or more transducers 142 (at a fixed distance). In operation, the ultrasonic transducer unit increases the humidity above the aqueous solution by forming small water particles 108, which merge or combine with the primary mist particles, thereby increasing the density of the primary mist and producing a secondary mist 116. The secondary mist 116 then exits the housing via an outlet 109. Figure 1 In the example device, the operation of the components is controlled by a control unit 120 and / or a user interface 122, and power is supplied by a portable power source 130 (typically a rechargeable battery).

[0025] In most residential applications, the fogging device is envisioned to generate enough fog to treat target areas such as backyard patios and front yards. However, non-continuous target areas (e.g., different sections of a backyard), target areas at varying heights (e.g., elevated BBQ islands, elevated flower beds), or areas with irregular geometries (e.g., extended grass rows or side yards next to buildings) can also be treated using the device envisioned herein, such as... Figure 2As illustrated exemplaryly and schematically, the atomizing device 200 is coupled at a first output port to an elongated guide tube 240 (e.g., a flexible and foldable cylindrical tube with a diameter of 10 cm), which guides secondary mist to a dispensing chamber 250, which typically has one or more openings (which may be individually controllable and / or steerable), through which secondary mist 252 can then be delivered to a remote target area. Similarly, the elongated guide tube 240 may also have one or more openings along its longitudinal axis to dispense portions of secondary mist 242 along the length of the guide channel.

[0026] Of course, it should be understood that the envisioned apparatus and methods can also utilize various alternative configurations, including those in which the generation of primary fog and secondary fog are at least partially decoupled. For example, such an apparatus may include a housing having a primary chamber and a secondary chamber. Here, the primary chamber may house an atomizer fluidly coupled to an atomized insecticide reservoir to generate a primary fog that will consist of atomized insecticide particles. The atomizer is then fluidly coupled (e.g., via a dedicated primary fog delivery conduit, or by direct connection to the chamber) to the secondary chamber, which may house a reservoir configured to contain an aqueous solution and an ultrasonic transducer. It will be readily understood that the ultrasonic transducer is configured to acoustically couple with the aqueous solution to generate humidity in the secondary chamber, which is also configured to allow the primary fog to accumulate humidity therein, thereby increasing the density of the primary fog and thus generating secondary fog. As previously mentioned, the secondary chamber will also typically include one or more outlets for releasing the secondary fog.

[0027] Regarding primary fog, it is generally preferred that the primary fog is generated thermally from an atomizing liquid, for example, via a commercially available heating element for vaporizing the atomizing liquid. It will be readily understood that such heating elements can be sized and sized to suit specific requirements for fog volume and fog generation duration. Thus, in most residential and small industrial applications, the rated power of the heating element can be around 400 W, such as between 250 W and 400 W, or between 300 W and 500 W, or between 500 W and 800 W, or up to 1,200 W and even higher (e.g., for larger industrial or agricultural applications). Alternatively, thermal generation may also rely on propane or other hydrocarbon fuels, particularly for generating larger volumes and / or for outdoor use. In other embodiments, it is envisioned that primary fog can also be generated using non-thermal methods, including sprayers, spray nozzles, etc. Depending on the specific method of generating the primary fog, it is envisioned that the droplet size may vary considerably. However, it is generally preferred that the droplet size of the primary mist be between 0.5 micrometers and 5.0 micrometers, such as between 0.5 micrometers and 2.0 micrometers, or between 1 micrometer and 5 micrometers, or between 3 micrometers and 9 micrometers.

[0028] Furthermore, it is envisioned that the primary mist is generated from an aqueous solution, which will typically contain one or more non-aqueous components, and particularly envisioned non-aqueous components include propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and / or glycerin. Additionally, it should be noted that the aqueous solution may further contain humectants and / or detergents to enhance or modulate the interaction with the water mist generated by ultrasound (or other means). Most typically, the main component of the aqueous solution will be water (e.g., between 50% and 60%, or between 55% and 70%, or between 60% and 80%, and even higher), while the remaining amount consists of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and / or glycerin, and optional humectants and / or detergents (typically present in amounts between 0.1% and 1%, or between 1% and 3%, or between 3% and 5%, and in some cases even higher).

[0029] Similarly, it should be noted that secondary fog can be generated in a variety of ways, as long as the primary fog is exposed to a high-humidity environment, allowing the primary fog to absorb or bind water particles in a confined space before the secondary fog is released into the environment. Preferably, the exposure is carried out at relatively low temperatures (typically within + / - 10°C, + / - 8°C, or + / - 6°C of ambient temperature). In other embodiments, particularly where the ambient temperature is relatively high (e.g., at least 25°C, or at least 27°C, or at least 30°C), the exposure can be carried out at significantly lower temperatures, such as about 4°C to 10°C, or about 10°C to 15°C, or about 15°C to 20°C. Thus, it should be understood that the secondary fog will have a low temperature, which is typically at or near the ambient temperature (and in some cases even moderately below the ambient temperature). However, unlike most other fog generators, the secondary fog thus generated will remain close to the ground due to the increased fog particle density.

[0030] Of course, it should be understood that high humidity environments can be generated in various ways to form secondary fog, such as using atomizers and / or spray nozzles. However, it is particularly preferred to use an ultrasonic atomizer to generate a high humidity environment. For example, a suitable ultrasonic transducer unit will include multiple ultrasonic transducers (e.g., between 2 and 20) and will operate at typical power consumptions between 100 W and 300 W, or between 200 W and 500 W, or between 400 W and 800 W (e.g., 10 transducers, with the unit operating at 350 W to 400 W). From another perspective, a single ultrasonic transducer will typically operate at a frequency of about 40 kHz with a power of 20 W to 40 W. Multiple ultrasonic transducers can then be placed in an ultrasonic transducer unit to generate a high humidity environment.

[0031] Regardless of the specific method by which a high-humidity environment is generated, it is generally preferred that the high-humidity environment contains multiple water mist particles having droplet sizes between about 200 nm and 400 nm, or between 300 nm and 600 nm, or between 500 nm and 800 nm, or between 750 nm and 1,000 nm, or between 850 nm and 1,250 nm, with larger sizes within these ranges generally preferred. In the case of ultrasonic transducers, it is particularly preferred (but not necessarily) that the transducer unit includes a float or other buoyancy structure that positions the ultrasonic transducer at a fixed distance relative to the water surface. In this context, it should be particularly understood that such and other fixed-distance arrangements greatly simplify the construction and advantageously eliminate significant variables affecting the secondary fog height.

[0032] Alternatively, with the transducer unit fixed relative to the housing, it is envisioned that a pump could be used to control the water level relative to the transducer element, actively maintaining the desired water level (in response to a level sensor and control circuitry) to achieve a fixed distance again. Similarly, a "bird feeder" technique could be used for water level control, in which a partially submerged feed conduit (attached to a water tank) has an opening, and the lower end of the conduit terminates in the atomizer reservoir. When the water level in the reservoir drops below the opening, water flows from the water tank into the atomizer reservoir until the opening is covered again. In another example, a control float and feed valve could be used to maintain the water level relative to the ultrasonic transducer at a substantially constant level.

[0033] Typically, the appropriate water volume for the reservoir of an ultrasonic atomizer is between 1 liter and 10 liters, or between 10 liters and 25 liters, or even larger for stationary installations. Alternatively, water can be supplied continuously from hoses, larger feed tanks, etc.

[0034] It will be readily understood that various parameters of the secondary mist can be easily controlled, and among other options, the supply rate of the primary mist and the humidity in the atomizer reservoir offer simple options. Most typically, and depending on the specific construction and operation, the envisioned device will have a secondary mist output rate between 5 m³ / min and 5 m³ / min, or between 10 m³ / min and 25 m³ / min, or between 25 m³ / min and 50 m³ / min, or between 50 m³ / min and 100 m³ / min, or between 100 m³ / min and 250 m³ / min, and even higher. The typical density difference between the primary and secondary mists will be at least 4%, at least 10%, at least 20%, and even higher, and the exact density of the secondary mist will be determined by the density of the primary mist, the flow rate of the primary mist, and the operating parameters of the ultrasonic atomizer (the secondary mist density increases with the increase of the humidity load of the primary mist). Therefore, it should be understood that the height of the mist when released from the atomizing device can be controlled by these simple operating parameters.

[0035] Further envisioning is that the primary mist can be passively moved to the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir, or moved using a fan or blower. Similarly, the secondary mist can be passively released from the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir, or actively released using a blower or booster fan. Furthermore, it should be understood that the secondary mist release can be into the environment or into a guiding structure, such as an elongated guiding conduit, which may have openings along its length, or may be connected to a dispensing chamber from which the secondary mist is then released. Most typically, but not necessarily, the elongated guiding conduit will be a flexible (and preferably foldable) hose with an inner diameter of at least 2 cm, or at least 5 cm, or at least 10 cm, and even greater, and its length will be at least 1 m, or at least 5 m, or at least 10 m, between 5 m and 50 m for agricultural applications, and even longer.

[0036] As previously mentioned, the fog height at release can be controlled in various ways (alone or in combination), and suitable methods include the number of ultrasonic transducers operating in the transducer unit, the operating voltage applied to the transducers, the operating current supplied to the transducers, and the fog volume through the humidification chamber. Therefore, humidity control in the humidity chamber (e.g., via ultrasonic humidification) advantageously provides control over the desired fog density, and thereby controls the desired height of the fog emitted from the humidity chamber. It will be readily understood that the flow rate and size of the envisioned device will further affect fog diffusion, and it is generally envisioned that the fog diffused into the target area in a domestic device will be at least 10 m² to 25 m², or at least 20 m² to 50 m², or at least 30 m² to 100 m², while in an agricultural device it will be between 1,000 m² and 5,000 m², and even higher.

[0037] Most typically, the envisioned device will be operated to generate an adjustable secondary fog height, with a suitable height not exceeding 100 cm, or 75 cm, or 50 cm, or 30 cm, or 20 cm. Therefore, it is particularly envisioned that the secondary fog height is between 1 cm and 5 cm, or between 3 cm and 10 cm, or between 5 cm and 15 cm. Furthermore, it should be understood that due to the uniformity of the secondary fog particles, no more than 30%, or 25%, or 20%, or 15%, or 10% of the secondary fog will rise above the desired height. Additionally, the inventors have noted that the secondary fog thus generated has a relatively long persistence time in the target area. In fact, at 22°C, the time for the secondary fog to dissipate or condense in the target area is at least 1 minute, or at least 2 minutes, or at least 4 minutes, or at least 8 minutes, and in some cases even longer. Furthermore, and from different perspectives, most (e.g., at least 55%, or at least 65%, or at least 75%, or at least 85%, or at least 90%) of the secondary fog settles to the ground or evaporates in the target area without any loss due to fog rising more than 1 m.

[0038] Given these advantages, the devices and methods presented herein are particularly suitable for residential and even industrial pest control applications where the target pests inhabit the ground or near the ground. Most importantly, it should be understood that many blood-sucking mosquitoes that transmit viruses and parasitic diseases, such as Aedes aegypti, Culex, or Anopheles, inhabit the ground or near the ground (e.g., on grass blades) after emerging from the pupal stage and before seeking a blood meal. It is at this stage that the envisioned devices and methods will provide selective repellency and / or insecticidal effects without eliminating early life-cycle stages (i.e., egg, larva, pupa) that play important roles in the ecology of other species.

[0039] Therefore, the contemplated devices and methods will utilize atomized liquids containing repellents or insecticides, and in some cases even adult insecticides. Suitable insecticides or repellents include various organophosphates (e.g., malathion, dibromophos, fenitrothion, etc.), various synthetic pyrethroids (e.g., deltamethrin, permethrin, deltamethrin, cypermethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin), neonicotinoids, permethrin, carbamates (e.g., propoxur, imidacloprid), organochlorines (e.g., DDT), picaridin, allethrin, etc. Alternatively or additionally, natural repellents and insecticides may also be used, including natural pyrethroids (e.g., from chrysanthemum extract), one or more essential oils (e.g., from orange, eucalyptus, citronella, lemon eucalyptus, garlic, basil, etc.), capsaicin, and / or capsaicin analogues. Specifically envisioned adult insecticides include pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, benzalkonium chloride, deltamethrin, cypermethrin, allethrin, and difenoconazole), tetrafluorobenzyl, malathion, propargite, and ethoprofen. In a further envisioned aspect, and particularly where even denser secondary fogs are desired, atomized insecticides and / or aqueous solutions can provide compounds with greater density, such as SF6, C2F6, and / or CO2.

[0040] The inventors further envision the atomizing device including a control unit operatively coupled to the atomizer and / or ultrasonic transducer. In some examples, the control unit is configured to measure and / or regulate the temperature within the housing, the flow rate of insecticide to the (thermal) atomizer, the flow rate of an optional second fluid to the atomizer, the atomization rate, and / or the activity of the ultrasonic transducer. For example, the temperature control unit may be located within the primary chamber. Such a temperature control unit may be configured to measure and regulate the temperature of the atomized insecticide in the atomized insecticide reservoir before the atomized insecticide is delivered from the atomizer to the secondary chamber. Additionally, the temperature control unit may be coupled to the atomizer via one or more wires, but in other embodiments, the coupling is wireless. In still other embodiments, the atomizer may be powered by line voltage; however, it may also be powered by a battery.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, to allow the operator to provide input to the control unit, the inventors envision the fogging machine including an interface available to the operator. The interface can be as simple as a panel with knobs, buttons, and sliders, or it can include a digital screen, or a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi interface for remote control. Alternatively, the interface can be a wireless or wired remote control, allowing the operator to communicate with the control unit by pressing buttons. It is also envisioned that the interface allows the operator to turn the fogging machine on or off. However, in other embodiments, the fogging machine can be turned on when connected to a power source and turned off when disconnected. An important but optional feature of the interface envisioned by the inventors is allowing the operator to specify the desired height of the secondary fog above the ground. The interface may also provide an option to specify the fog diffusion range. Additionally, the interface can be configured to allow the operator to specify the desired pesticide concentration of the secondary fog. By way of example and not intended to limit the subject matter disclosed, when using the fogging machine in areas with high numbers of harmful insects, the operator may set the desired pesticide concentration to "high," while alternatively, when spraying a relatively small area of ​​crop, the operator may set the desired pesticide concentration to "low."

[0042] Furthermore, the control unit can be further configured to allow the operator to control the operating frequency, amplitude, timing, and / or intensity of the ultrasonic transducer activity. It should be noted that the acoustic coupling of the ultrasonic transducer to the aqueous solution can include, but is not limited to, the ultrasonic transducer being immersed in the aqueous solution while located at the bottom, side, or top of the reservoir. However, in other embodiments, an acoustic intervening element, such as a horn or waveguide, may be positioned between the ultrasonic transducer and the reservoir. In some cases, multiple ultrasonic transducers may be coupled to the reservoir, and some or all of the transducers may be turned on or off based on input from the operator.

[0043] In a further contemplated use of the apparatus and methods presented herein, it is envisioned that the atomizing device presented herein could also be configured to wet crops with insecticides. This could be particularly advantageous in situations where it is difficult to quickly spray insecticides over large areas of crops, especially when spraying the base of the crop. Furthermore, plant treatment can be carried out at the base and / or roots without affecting the stems, leaves, and / or above-ground valuable products, such as fruits, berries, flowers, etc. Because the fogger releases a denser insecticide mist, this mist can be effectively kept closer to the ground and thus more effectively targeted at the lower parts of the crop. However, it should be noted that the contemplated invention also allows the mist to reach crops higher above the ground, such as when the operator specifies that the mist should be higher above the ground and therefore less dense. In either case, the subject matter of the invention allows the operator to specify the height of the mist according to different crops with different heights and characteristics. In some embodiments, the fogger can be coupled to a remotely controlled vehicle, an autonomous vehicle, a drone, or an aircraft. In these cases, the fogger may or may not be used for spraying crops. However, when spraying crops, especially when it involves atomizing an entire crop field, it may be beneficial to use a fogging machine that is attached to one or more of the aforementioned vehicles.

[0044] Furthermore, the envisioned devices and methods can also be applied to flea control in household or industrial settings, for carpet treatment, termite, cockroach, or ant infestations. Additionally, it is envisioned that ground fog can also be used to eliminate underground rodents and pests, such as rats, mice, and burrowing mice that may inhabit burrows or underground utility pipe and ventilation systems.

[0045] In further envisioned embodiments, it should be understood that many other fluids besides insecticide solutions can also be used with the apparatus and methods presented herein. For example, fluids converted into primary and / or secondary mists can, instead of insecticides, contain functional or sensory components to achieve a specific purpose. Suitable alternatives to insecticides include flavoring agents or aromatic compounds, as well as mixtures of compounds (which can be single compounds or complex mixtures, such as extracts or fractions of plant materials). Thus, suitable functional components include deodorants, herbicides, fungicides, antibacterial agents, insect repellents, snail repellents, rodent repellents or pest repellents, pheromones, fertilizers (and particularly those applied to the leaves), optically active ingredients (e.g., fluorescent or luminescent compounds), etc. Suitable flavoring agents or aromatic compounds include plant extracts, such as garlic extract, lemongrass extract, extracts from other culinary aromatic plants, and single aromatic compounds, such as terpenoids, etc., and further envisioned components include one or more enzymes with desired functions (e.g., deodorizing enzymes, lipases, ureases, etc.). Furthermore, it should be understood that functional and / or sensory components may be part of the fluid used for primary fog and / or part of the fluid used to generate secondary fog.

[0046] For better maintenance and ease of use, the inventors also envision the atomizing device including an inlet fluidly connected to an atomizing insecticide reservoir and configured to allow the operator to refill the reservoir. In some cases, the inlet may be a port allowing the operator to pour liquid to fill the atomizing insecticide reservoir. However, the inlet may alternatively be designed as an insert for receiving a disposable cartridge or container of insecticide. This cartridge or container can be easily removed and replaced with a new one when needed. It will be readily understood that any component of the envisioned atomizer can be configured as a removable and replaceable or refillable component. For example, an ultrasonic atomizing reservoir may include an inlet allowing the operator to refill or replace the contents of an aqueous solution.

[0047] The descriptions of numerical ranges herein are intended only as a convenient way to refer to each individual value falling within that range. Unless otherwise stated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were described separately herein. Unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by the context, all methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended only to better elucidate the full scope of this disclosure and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of the invention as otherwise claimed. No language in this specification should be construed as indicating that any non-claimed element is essential for the practice of the claimed invention.

[0048] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications can be made without departing from the full scope of the concepts disclosed herein, in addition to the modifications already described. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited except within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, in interpreting the specification and claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. Specifically, the term “comprises / comprising” should be interpreted as referring to an element, component, or step in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced element, component, or step may be present, used, or combined with other elements, components, or steps not explicitly referenced. Where the specification or claims refer to at least one thing selected from the group consisting of A, B, C… and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from that group, rather than A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

Claims

1. A method for temporarily repelling or eliminating mosquitoes in a target area, the method comprising: A primary fog is generated from an atomizing liquid containing insecticides or repellents; The primary fog is exposed to ultrasonic water mist to generate a secondary fog containing the insecticide or the repellent, wherein the secondary fog has a density greater than that of the primary fog; and The secondary fog is directed to the target area, wherein the target area is at least 25 m², and the secondary fog is distributed at a height not exceeding 1 m above the target area; and The secondary fog is maintained in the target area for at least 1 minute to repel or kill the mosquitoes.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the secondary fog has a duration of at least 2 minutes.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein most of the secondary fog deposition is in the target area.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the primary fog is generated using thermal atomization.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the primary mist comprises propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, or glycerin.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the primary mist further comprises a humectant and / or a detergent.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the insecticide is an adult insecticide.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the insecticide is a natural insecticide selected from the group consisting of natural pyrethroids, capsaicin, or essential oils.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the insecticide is a synthetic insecticide selected from the group consisting of: organophosphates, synthetic capsaicin, synthetic pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, picaridin, permethrin, allethrin, carbamates, and organochlorines.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic water mist is generated by one or more fixed-distance transducers.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the fixed-distance transducer is coupled to a floating frame floating on an aqueous medium.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic water mist comprises water mist particles with controllable particle size and / or density.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the particle size and / or density of the water mist particles are controlled by a power and / or frequency controller operatively coupled to the ultrasonic transducer.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondary mist is guided by an outlet nozzle.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondary fog is guided by a guide channel extending at least 3 m from a location at a distance from the secondary fog, wherein the guide channel has a plurality of openings allowing portions of the secondary fog to escape.

16. The method of claim 1, further comprising a distribution chamber coupled to a guide channel and configured to distribute the secondary fog outward from the distribution chamber.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein the target area is a residential area selected from the group consisting of: a front yard, a backyard, a bedroom, a waiting room, or a community assembly area.

18. The method of claim 1, wherein the target area is an agricultural area selected from the group consisting of orchards, vineyards, and berry-growing areas.

19. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondary fog is directed to the target area for less than 10 minutes.

20. The method according to claim 1, wherein the mosquito is Aedes aegypti, Culex, or Anopheles.

21. The method of claim 1, wherein the primary fog and the secondary fog are generated in a single portable container.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the primary fog and the secondary fog are generated using a portable power source.

23. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondary fog has a temperature within 10°C of the ambient temperature.

24. An insecticide atomizing device, comprising: The housing at least partially surrounds the atomizer, the atomized insecticide reservoir, and the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir; The atomizing insecticide reservoir is fluidly connected to the atomizer, and the atomizer is configured to generate a primary mist containing the atomizing insecticide and deliver the primary mist to the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir. The ultrasonic atomizer reservoir is configured to contain an aqueous solution and an ultrasonic transducer unit. The ultrasonic transducer unit is configured to increase the humidity above the aqueous solution and increase the density of the primary fog, thereby generating secondary fog; The ultrasonic transducer unit is further configured to maintain a fixed distance between the vibrating surface of the transducer and the surface of the aqueous solution; and The housing includes an output port for releasing the secondary fog.

25. The atomizing device of claim 24, wherein the housing is configured as a portable container.

26. The atomizing device according to claim 24, wherein the atomizer comprises a thermal atomizer.

27. The atomizing device according to claim 24, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer reservoir has a sufficient volume to (1) contain at least 5 liters of the aqueous solution, and (2) allow the density between the primary mist and the secondary mist to increase by at least 10%.

28. The atomizing device of claim 24, wherein the ultrasonic transducer unit is configured to float in the aqueous solution and accommodate at least one ultrasonic transducer, the at least one ultrasonic transducer being coupled to the unit such that the ultrasonic transducer maintains a fixed distance from the surface of the aqueous solution.

29. The atomizing device of claim 24 further includes a control unit operatively coupled to the atomizer and / or the ultrasonic transducer.

30. The atomizing device according to claim 29, wherein the control unit is further configured to measure and / or regulate (1) the temperature in the housing, (2) the flow rate of the insecticide from the atomizing insecticide reservoir to the atomizer, (3) the atomization rate of the atomizer and / or (4) the activity of the transducer.

31. The atomizing device of claim 29, further comprising an interface configured to allow an operator to provide input to the control unit.

32. The atomizing device of claim 31, wherein the interface is configured to allow the operator to specify the desired height of the secondary fog above the ground.

33. The atomizing device of claim 31, wherein the interface is configured to allow an operator to specify the desired insecticide concentration of the secondary fog.

34. The atomizing device of claim 24, further comprising an elongated guide tube connected to the output port, wherein the guide channel optionally has a plurality of openings allowing the secondary mist to escape along a length portion of the guide channel.

35. The atomizing device of claim 34, further comprising a dispensing chamber connected to the guide channel and configured to dispense the secondary mist outward from the dispensing chamber.

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