Device and system for controlling rodent pests

Abstract

Device for controlling rodent pests, comprising a killing agent (6, 7) and a carrier with a carrier surface that rodent pests can walk on, wherein the killing agent (6, 7) is attached to the carrier and defines an effective area extending along a section of the carrier surface frequented by rodents, the killing agent (6, 7) is oriented relative to the carrier in such a way that a rodent killed in the effective area falls away from the carrier surface by gravity and the effective area remains open for a subsequent rodent, and the killing device (6, 7) has at least one triggering device projecting into the effective area, which can be actuated by a rodent crossing the effective area to trigger a killing process, wherein the killing device (6, 7) is switchable between an activated state and a deactivated state.

Description

[0001] The application concerns a device and a system for controlling rodent pests, especially rats, in buildings and technical facilities. The device is specifically designed for use in areas with extensive rodent activity, such as sewer inspection chambers, attics, basements, or enclosures in open areas.

[0002] In such environments, rodents, especially rats, preferentially use linear or planar structures such as embankments alongside drainage ditches, pipes, beams, or defined paths in enclosures as running and feeding routes. This leads to pollution, the spread of pathogens, and damage to buildings and infrastructure.

[0003] Various trap and bait systems are known for controlling rats and other rodent pests, including mechanical snap traps, gas- or spring-driven killing devices, and bait stations with permanently accessible bait or electronic release control, as known, for example, from EP 3 082 412 B1. Furthermore, traps for use in sewer systems with a guide mechanism and removal device are known from DE 20 2017 107 622 U1, and gas-operated, self-resetting killing mechanisms with a piston are known from WO 2010 / 101481 A1.

[0004] In practice, the existing systems exhibit several disadvantages. Rats in sewers and buildings are often reluctant to use closed bait stations, especially if they are not located near structures the animals already use. Electronically controlled bait and kill systems are complex to design, require a reliable power supply, and are prone to malfunction in damp, dirty environments. Many kill traps are also primarily designed to capture individual animals without exploiting the group-like feeding behavior of a pack, and require manual removal of carcasses from hard-to-reach locations, increasing maintenance and disposal costs.

[0005] The object of the invention is therefore to provide an improved method for controlling rodent pests, which ensures increased effectiveness even in difficult-to-access areas of application, promotes good acceptance by the animals and reduces the effort required for maintenance and disposal of the resulting carcasses.

[0006] This problem is solved by the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0007] A device for controlling rodents is provided, comprising a killing device and a carrier with a carrier surface accessible to rodents, wherein the killing device is attached to the carrier and defines an effective area extending along a section of the carrier surface accessible to rodents, the killing device is oriented relative to the carrier such that a rodent killed in the effective area falls away from the carrier surface by gravity and the effective area remains clear for a subsequent rodent, and the killing device has at least one triggering device projecting into the effective area which can be actuated by a rodent crossing the effective area to initiate a killing process, wherein the killing device is switchable between an activated state and a deactivated state.

[0008] The device comprises a support structure with a surface suitable for rodent use. The support surface is designed and positioned to serve as a walking or resting area for the rodents, for example, as an edge, ramp, or platform within a section of a room frequented by rodents. The killing agent is attached to this support structure, thus defining its position relative to the support surface. The support surface is specifically designed to have a substrate that rodents readily walk on, such as carpet or similar material.

[0009] The killing device defines an effective area that extends along a section of the carrier surface traversed by the rodents. This effective area is thus located in the region where a rodent typically stays when crossing the carrier surface. The killing device is oriented relative to the carrier such that a rodent killed within the effective area falls away from the carrier surface due to gravity and does not remain on the carrier surface or on the killing device.

[0010] This ensures that the area of ​​effect remains open for a subsequent rodent after a killing process.

[0011] The killing device has at least one triggering element that projects into the effective area. This triggering element extends into the space occupied by the rodent as it crosses the carrier surface. A rodent crossing the effective area comes into contact with the triggering element, touching, displacing, or pivoting it, thereby activating a triggering process provided in the killing device, which initiates the killing process.

[0012] Furthermore, the lethal device can be switched between an activated and a deactivated state. In the activated state, the lethal device is configured so that pressing the trigger initiates a lethal process. In the deactivated state, the lethal device is configured so that pressing the trigger does not initiate a lethal process.

[0013] By mounting the killing device on a carrier with a surface accessible to rodents, the effective area is placed directly within the animals' natural movement or resting area. The rodent does not need to enter an additional housing structure but moves along an existing carrier surface or one designed as a walkway, thus increasing acceptance of the device. The device's orientation, such that a killed rodent falls away from the carrier surface by gravity, prevents the effective area from becoming blocked. The killing device can kill multiple rodents successively without the need for manual removal of carcasses. The switchable between activated and deactivated states allows the device to operate with or without the killing effect while maintaining the same geometric configuration. This simplifies familiarization phases, transport, installation, and maintenance.

[0014] In this application, the term "rodent pest" is used broadly and includes, in particular, rats and mice. Where rats are mentioned below as an example, this applies equally to other rodent pests, especially mice, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the killing device is not rigidly but detachably attached to the support. This attachment can be achieved, for example, via a screw, clamp, tension, or plug connection, which enables a positive and / or force-fit fixing of the killing device to the support while simultaneously allowing disassembly without destructive intervention. The detachable attachment makes it particularly possible to position the killing device at different locations along the support or to adapt the device to different structural conditions by mounting the killing device on a different support or on a different section of the support surface. The detachable attachment also simplifies maintenance, inspection, and replacement of the killing device.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the killing device is pivotable relative to the carrier. For this purpose, the killing device is mounted around a pivot axis that runs essentially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the carrier. This pivotability allows the orientation of the killing device relative to the carrier surface to be adjusted, so that the effective range can be adapted to different spatial conditions and the movement patterns of the rodents. In this way, for example, the distance of the effective range from the carrier surface or the lateral offset of the effective range relative to the carrier surface can be adjusted to ensure reliable activation of the trigger mechanism when the rodents cross the carrier surface.

[0017] It can advantageously be provided that the pivoting capability is also used to switch between an activated and a deactivated state by pivoting the killing device from an active position, in which the effective area extends into the section of the carrier surface frequented by rodents, to a rest position, in which the effective area lies outside the area frequented by the rodents. This allows the device to be moved into a safe position without any structural modifications to the carrier, for example, if the rodents are to be allowed to become accustomed to the device first.

[0018] It is preferred that the triggering element be designed as a mechanical actuator which, when a rodent crosses the effective area, is displaced by it and thereby activates a triggering mechanism of the killing device. In this embodiment, the triggering element is provided as a physical component located within the effective area, which is directly actuated by the rodent's body. The mechanical actuator projects into the area traversed by the rodents, so that a rodent crossing the effective area inevitably touches the actuator and displaces it relative to its rest position. This displacement is transmitted to a triggering mechanism of the killing device and initiates the killing process. The transmission can be, for example, electrical, mechanical, or electromechanical.Designing the trigger mechanism as a mechanical actuator has the advantage that the triggering is directly linked to the actual presence of a rodent in the operating area and occurs without intermediate steps. This ensures a defined and reproducible triggering. Furthermore, the design eliminates the need for sensitive sensors or complex electronics in the immediate operating area, allowing the device to operate reliably even in damp or dirty environments.

[0019] Advantageously, a chute-shaped removal track is arranged below the effective area. A killed rodent falls onto this track and is guided away from the carrier and into a collection or disposal area. The chute is positioned below the effective area in such a way that a rodent killed within the effective area immediately leaves the carrier surface and, if applicable, the killing agent, and lands on the chute. The chute is inclined relative to the direction of gravity, so that after impact, the carcass is automatically moved along the chute away from the carrier towards a spatially separated collection or disposal area.This ensures that carcasses do not accumulate on the carrier surface or in the immediate vicinity of the effective area, so that the effective area remains permanently clear and the lethal agent can be used multiple times in succession. At the same time, the disposal area is defined and concentrated in a region distant from the actual effective zone, which facilitates hygienic handling and improves access for maintenance and disposal work.

[0020] In one embodiment, the support is designed as a substantially elongated, particularly tubular component, specifically as a pipe, conduit, or rod-shaped element. The support exhibits a pronounced longitudinal extension, resulting in a linear, structurally well-defined section along its longitudinal axis, which can be designed as a surface accessible to rodents. The tubular or rod-shaped geometry provides a clearly defined surface area on which a walkable zone and an associated working zone can be geometrically precisely defined. The design as a pipe, conduit, or rod-shaped element allows for the simple mechanical connection of other components, particularly via clamps, clips, or holders that partially encircle the support or create a positive fit.

[0021] Advantageously, the killing device may include a receiver designed to wirelessly receive an activation signal from a transmitter and, depending on the activation signal, switch the killing device to the activated state. The receiver is either an integral part of the killing device or functionally coupled to it and is designed to wirelessly receive an externally generated activation signal. The activation signal may, in particular, be a radio, Bluetooth, WLAN, or other wirelessly transmitted control signal. Depending on the received signal, the receiver switches an internal control unit or switching element of the killing device such that the killing device is switched from a deactivated state to an activated state, in which actuation of the triggering device initiates a killing process.

[0022] Wireless activation allows the device to be switched on without direct physical access to the killing agent. Activation can be scheduled precisely after a prior familiarization period, without requiring anyone to enter the area infested by rodents or manually adjust any components. This reduces organizational effort and increases workplace safety during operation.

[0023] In one embodiment, the killing device comprises a striking element, in particular a firing pin, which is movable between a rest position and a striking position and is moved into the striking position during the killing process. The striking element is designed as a defined movable component that can be adjusted between at least two clearly distinguishable positions. In the rest position, the striking element is outside of any direct contact area with the rodent, so that no killing effect is exerted in this state. During the killing process, the striking element is moved from the rest position to the striking position, in which it strikes a target area of ​​the rodent, in particular the head or neck region, with a predetermined trajectory and velocity, thereby producing an immediate killing effect.The design of the killing device with a striking body that can be moved between a resting position and a striking position allows for a clear separation between an energy-free initial state and a defined active state with high mechanical impact energy.

[0024] It can further be provided that the striking element is driven by a pressure medium, in particular by compressed gas from an interchangeable cartridge coupled to the killing device. In this embodiment, the striking element is not driven mechanically by springs or weights, but by a pressure medium stored in a pressure chamber. The pressure medium, preferably compressed gas, is contained in a cartridge that is coupled to the killing device and connected to the working chamber of the striking element via a suitable line or valve arrangement. When the killing process is triggered, a valve is opened or a separation point is released, allowing the pressure medium to flow into the working chamber and act upon an effective surface of the striking element. The resulting pressure difference accelerates the striking element in its striking position.The use of a pressure medium, particularly compressed gas, as a propellant allows for high impact energy while maintaining a compact design for the killing device. The replaceable cartridge provides a defined energy reserve sufficient for numerous killing operations and can be easily replaced once depleted. This eliminates the need for the time-consuming manual cocking of a mechanical energy storage device after each killing operation.

[0025] Additionally, the pressure medium stored in the cartridge can be used not only to accelerate the striking element towards the striking position, but also to return the striking element to its rest position. For this purpose, the striking element can be guided in a working chamber that is controllably connected to the pressure medium source via at least one valve and is designed such that the pressure medium acts alternately on different effective surfaces of the striking element. In a corresponding embodiment, a return process can be initiated after completion of the killing process, in which the valve or a valve arrangement is switched such that the pressure medium exerts a force vector opposite to the striking stroke on the striking element and pushes it back into its rest position.Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that during the striking process, a portion of the pressure medium is transferred to a separate return chamber, from which, after pressure release in the striking chamber, the pressure medium is used to return the striking element. By using the same pressure medium for both the striking movement and the return, separate mechanical return elements, such as strong coil springs, can be omitted or their dimensions significantly reduced.

[0026] Alternatively, the stroke of the striking element and / or its return to the rest position can also be achieved by means of at least one spring, in particular a compression and / or tension spring. The spring can be arranged such that it is tensioned when the striking element is moved into the striking position and, upon subsequent release, automatically returns the striking element to the rest position, or conversely, accelerates the striking element from a pre-tensioned rest position into the striking position. Such a spring-based design can be used instead of, or in combination with, a pressure-media-based return mechanism and allows for a structurally simple, purely mechanical implementation of the striking and return process.

[0027] It is preferred that the killing device comprises a body that is at least partially sleeve-shaped and surrounds the effective area, at least partially. In this embodiment, the sleeve-shaped body forms a structure surrounding the effective area, extending longitudinally along the effective area and enclosing it over at least part of its circumference. The effective area is thus located within or directly along an interior space or a lateral surface of the sleeve-shaped body. The sleeve-shaped design makes it possible to integrate functional elements of the killing device, such as impactors, guides, and seals, within a single component and to protect them from contamination and moisture. Simultaneously, the interior space of the sleeve-shaped body can be designed such that the impactor's path of movement and the position of the triggering device are arranged in a defined spatial relationship to the substrate surface.

[0028] In one embodiment, the triggering device projects into an interior space of the sleeve-shaped body. In this embodiment, the triggering device is not only located on the exterior of the killing device but extends into the interior of the sleeve-shaped body. The sleeve-shaped body forms a substantially closed or partially closed enclosing structure, within which the effective area and, if applicable, the striking element are located. Alternatively, the killing device can be attached to the sleeve-shaped body. In a further embodiment, the sleeve-shaped body can be an integral part of the killing device. The triggering device projecting into the interior space is positioned such that it is located in the area of ​​the interior that the rodent reaches with a body part, particularly its head, neck, or torso, when crossing the effective area.The arrangement of the trigger mechanism inside the sleeve-shaped body has the advantage that the killing device is triggered by a largely linear movement of the rodent, as the rodent follows the path defined by the sleeve-shaped body. Particularly in a design where the killing device pivots into the effective area, an initial familiarization period may be necessary. The trigger mechanism is predominantly activated only when a rodent passes through or crosses the interior in the intended manner, which increases the selectivity of the triggering and reduces false triggering.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the striking element moves essentially orthogonally to a longitudinal axis of the sleeve-shaped body during the killing process. The striking element's trajectory is defined such that its striking direction runs transversely to the longitudinal extent of the sleeve-shaped body. The sleeve-shaped body thus defines a longitudinal axis along which the effective area is oriented, while the striking element moves essentially perpendicular to this longitudinal axis during the killing process. In this way, the striking element can enter the effective area from a lateral or radial direction and act on the head or torso of the rodent. The orthogonal direction of movement of the striking element to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve-shaped body allows for a geometrically clear separation between the direction of movement or passage of the rodent and the direction of the strike.This maintains the rodent's direction of movement along the sleeve-shaped body, while the striking element enters perpendicular to it. An additional advantage is that a carcass can fall away from the carrier.

[0030] It can further be provided that the killing device comprises a snap trap with a base body, a platform for the rodents arranged on the base body, and a striking bar pivotally mounted on the base body. The striking bar can be adjusted from a spring-loaded position to a striking position and is triggered when the rodent steps onto the platform. In this embodiment, the killing device is designed as a mechanical snap trap. The base body forms a supporting structure on which the functional elements of the trap are arranged. A platform is provided on the base body, serving as a stepping surface for the rodent. The striking bar is pivotally mounted on the base body and can be moved between a spring-loaded position and a striking position. In the spring-loaded position, the striking bar is locked against a release element and held under preload by a spring, in particular a torsion spring.When a rodent steps onto the platform, a trigger mechanism coupled to the platform is activated, releasing the locking mechanism and, due to spring force, moving the pivoting striking bar into the striking position. The spring-loaded mounting of the striking bar and the triggering mechanism via the platform ensure a defined, mechanically determined sequence of events. As long as the platform is not stepped on, the striking bar remains in the cocked position. Only when a rodent steps onto the platform is the trigger mechanism activated, and the striking bar is moved abruptly towards the platform. This enables a purely mechanical killing of the rodent with high efficiency and without an external power supply.

[0031] Furthermore, one embodiment provides that the base body is rotatable about an axis of rotation extending transversely to the adjustment direction of the striking bar by means of a rotary drive; that a stop is located in the path of rotation of the striking bar, which holds the striking bar in place as the base body rotates, thus moving the striking bar into the cocked position relative to the support; and that the striking bar is released from the stop as soon as it reaches its cocked position relative to the support, with a dead rodent lying on the support falling off during the rotational movement. In this embodiment, the base body of the snap trap is not fixed, but pivotally mounted on the frame or a bracket about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation runs essentially transversely to the adjustment direction of the striking bar, so that a rotational movement of the base body generates a relative movement between the striking bar and the support.Within the striking arm's range of motion, a stop is positioned so that, upon rotation of the base body, it initially receives and holds the striking arm in a defined position while the base body continues to rotate. This holding action transfers the striking arm into a tensioned position relative to the support, in which the striking arm maintains a predetermined distance from the support and is pre-tensioned by a spring.

[0032] Once the striking bar has reached its cocked position relative to the support, the stop is designed or positioned such that the striking bar releases it. The striking bar is thus locked in the cocked position and can be triggered during normal trap operation by stepping on the support. During the described rotation of the base, a previously killed rodent lying on the support is moved from its position by gravity and falls off. The combination of the base's rotary drive, the stop in the striking bar's rotational path, and the striking bar's release in the cocked position allows for automated or semi-automated cocking of the striking bar without manual intervention in the trap mechanism.At the same time, the carcass on the support is forcibly removed during the rotational movement, so that the support and the striking area are cleared for the next killing process.

[0033] It is further preferred that the striking bar has two mutually angular, preferably essentially U-shaped, bar sections which are connected to each other, in particular formed integrally, wherein a first bar section is designed as a striking element for killing the rodent and a second bar section interacts with the stop. The striking bar is thus structurally divided into two functional sections which are at an angle to each other and together form an essentially bent or angled bar. Each bar section is designed for a different function in its geometry and position. The first bar section is dimensioned as a striking element and arranged such that, when the striking bar pivots into the striking position, it extends into a defined striking area and acts there on the head or body area of ​​the rodent.Its shape, in particular a U-shaped design, allows for a planar or linear application to the animal's body and thus a reproducible force transmission.

[0034] The second bracket section is angled relative to the first and guided in such a way that it runs within the path of movement of the stop. This section interacts with the stop during rotation or clamping and serves to transmit force and motion between the stop and the striking bracket. The angled arrangement of the bracket sections allows the striking function and the clamping / stopping function to be geometrically separated but implemented within a single component. A one-piece construction of the two bracket sections reduces the number of components and connection points, increases the rigidity of the striking bracket, and minimizes play and wear in the striking and clamping mechanism.

[0035] The invention further relates to a system for controlling rodents, comprising at least one rodent control device as described above, as well as at least one first feeding station and at least one second feeding station, wherein the first feeding station is arranged in an area of ​​a rodent path spaced apart from the area of ​​effect of the killing agent, the second feeding station is arranged in close proximity to the area of ​​effect of the killing agent, a path leading to the second feeding station passes through the area of ​​effect of the killing agent, and the system has means for setting at least two operating states, namely a habituation state in which the killing agent is deactivated and the feeding stations are freely accessible to the rodents, and a killing state in which the killing agent is activated.so that, in a state of habituation to feeding at the feeding sites, rodents accustomed to the intake of food are killed when seeking out the second feeding site within the area of ​​effect of the killing agent and fall away from the carrier by gravity.

[0036] In this system, the device containing the killing agent is integrated into a feeding system consisting of at least two feeding stations. The first feeding station is deliberately positioned in an area separated from the area of ​​effect of the killing agent. It is located on a path used by rodents, without the animals having to cross the area of ​​effect of the killing agent. The second feeding station, however, is located in close proximity to the area of ​​effect of the killing agent. A geometric relationship exists between the support surface in the area of ​​effect and the second feeding station, such that a rodent seeking the second feeding station uses a path that crosses the area of ​​effect of the killing agent.

[0037] The device for setting at least two operating states is designed so that, in the acclimatization state, the killing agent is deactivated and both feeding stations are accessible to the rodents without being killed. In this operating state, the animals can visit the first and second feeding stations multiple times via the designated pathways without triggering a killing process. This ensures that the rodents accept the area of ​​the device, and in particular the pathway leading to the second feeding station, as a safe feeding area and use it regularly.

[0038] In the killing state, the killing device is activated, so that entering or crossing the effective area while searching for the second feeding station immediately triggers a killing process. Since the rodents have accepted the route to the second feeding station as an established feeding route due to the previous habituation phase, a significant proportion of the group will continue to use this route even in the killing state. Linking the route to the second feeding station with the effective area of ​​the killing device ensures that the animals are intercepted while in their established feeding behavior. Due to the advantageous orientation of the device, the killed rodents fall away from the carrier by gravity, so that the effective area remains clear and the system is able to kill several animals in succession without the route or the effective area being blocked by carcasses. This also prevents the carcasses from deterring other rodents.

[0039] The described features and advantages of the device are transferable to the system.

[0040] It is preferred that the system comprises at least one frame, wherein the frame has a support structure with a first support surface and a second support surface spaced apart from it, wherein the first support surface is designed to accommodate the first feeding station and the second support surface is designed to accommodate the second feeding station, wherein the device with the killing agent is arranged on the frame such that its effective area lies between the first support surface and the second support surface in an area frequented by rodents when seeking the second feeding station, and wherein the frame has legs for support on a surface. In this embodiment, the frame forms, at least partially, a support in the form of an independent support unit in which both the feeding stations and the device with the killing agent are mechanically integrated.The support frame holds the first feeding surface and the second, spaced-apart, feeding surface in a defined geometric relationship to each other, so that the height or positional offset between the first and second feeding stations is structurally predetermined. The spatial arrangement of the feeding surfaces thus defines the path preferred by rodents when seeking the second feeding station. The device containing the killing agent is attached to the frame in such a way that its effective area extends into this path between the first and second feeding surfaces. This ensures that a rodent moving from the first feeding station to the second feeding surface inevitably crosses the effective area and is killed there when the killing agent is activated. The frame, or its supporting structure, may include tubular supports to which the killing agent can be attached.

[0041] The legs serve to support the frame on a surface, such as a embankment, the floor of a shaft, a cellar, or any other suitable base. The legs stabilize the position of the support frame relative to the ground and allow for adjustment of the position of the support surfaces and the effective range of the lethal agent. The system can be transported to the deployment area as a pre-assembled unit and put into operation there with minimal effort.

[0042] In a further embodiment, the frame is provided with at least one hinge by means of which the legs can be pivoted relative to the support frame between a transport position and an operating position. The hinge is arranged such that the legs can be pivoted relative to the support frame from an extended operating position, in which the frame is supported on the ground, to a folded transport position. In the transport position, the legs lie closer to or parallel to the support frame, thus reducing the cross-section occupied by the frame. This particularly facilitates the insertion of the unit through narrow openings, for example, through a manhole in a sewer, and enables transport in confined spaces.

[0043] In the operating position, the support legs are pivoted relative to the support frame in such a way that they create a form-fit and / or force-fit support on the ground and hold the support frame in the intended position.

[0044] It may be designed that electrically operated components of the device and / or system, such as control and evaluation units, sensors, radio modules, or drive units, are designed for use in humid and thermally stressed environments, particularly in ductwork. For this purpose, these components may be housed in encapsulated enclosures with a protection rating of at least IP68, thus ensuring permanent protection against the ingress of water and dirt particles as well as against corrosive media. This contributes to the reliable operation of the electrical equipment over extended periods of use.

[0045] Furthermore, the system can be designed so that the switching process of the rodenticide from the deactivated to the activated state is triggered remotely. For this purpose, a control unit can be provided that is connected to a communication module capable of receiving control commands, particularly via SMS, LoRa, or a comparable radio protocol. Depending on a received control command, the rodenticide is switched from a familiarization mode with the killing function deactivated to a killing mode with the killing function activated, thus enabling a change of operating state without opening a shaft or entering the area frequented by rodents. This reduces personnel requirements and increases workplace safety.

[0046] Advantageously, the device may include a means of recording the number of killing events. In one embodiment, an electronic sensor is provided that detects the activation of the killing device, in particular the movement of the striking element or the striking bar, and reports the striking events as counting pulses to an evaluation unit. The recorded data can be stored locally and / or transmitted via a communication module, in particular using LoRa, to a remote receiving station, so that the operator can remotely monitor the number of triggered killing events. Alternatively or additionally, a mechanical counter may be provided that is coupled to a moving part of the killing device and executes a counting step with each activation. Such a mechanical counter enables simple, power-free documentation of the striking events, which can be read during an on-site inspection.

[0047] The system may also include an automatic feeder designed for the metered dispensing of feed at at least one feeding station. The feeder can be positioned to dispense feed onto the support surface, particularly on a embankment or lower feeding level, at least one feeding station, and / or onto an elevated feeding platform. Feed dispensing can be time-controlled at predetermined intervals, event-driven, or triggered remotely, for example, via a radio or LoRa signal. This allows for reproducible adjustment of the feed quantity and distribution, which helps rodents become accustomed to the feeding stations and maintains a level of activity in the area suitable for effective pest control.

[0048] Finally, the device or system may be equipped with a camera unit for visually monitoring the operating area and / or feeding areas. The camera can be a permanently installed camera or a wildlife camera that captures image or video data upon detecting movement or the presence of animals and transmits this data to a remote receiving station. Via a remote connection, the operator can visually assess the condition of the feeding areas, particularly the feed level, as well as the activity of rodents in the vicinity of the device. This allows for operational monitoring and, if necessary, adjustments to the feeding strategy or the activation times of the euthanasia agent without on-site inspection.

[0049] Further advantageous embodiments are explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the drawing.

[0050] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic view of a system design in a sewage shaft and Fig. 2 a further design of a system in a shaft.

[0051] In Fig. Figure 1 shows an inspection shaft of a sewer with a shaft wall 1. A wastewater channel 3 runs along the bottom of the shaft wall 1, through which the wastewater is guided in the direction of flow through the shaft. A ledge 2 is arranged to the side of the wastewater channel 3, extending along the shaft wall 1 and forming a support surface that can be walked on by rodents.

[0052] A feeding tray 4 is arranged on the embankment 2, forming a first feeding station. Feeding tray 4 is positioned so that rats using embankment 2 as a running and resting area can directly access it. A further feeding tray 5 is provided above embankment 2, forming a second feeding station. Feeding tray 5 is located in the shaft at a height higher than embankment 2 and is positioned so that it can be reached by the rats via a ramp 8. The ramp 8 is designed as a sloping ramp or step element that leads from the level of feeding tray 4, or the surface of embankment 2, to feeding tray 5 and defines the running path used by the rats to reach the second feeding station.

[0053] A killing device is arranged in the area of ​​the ramp 8 or in the immediate vicinity of the feeding trough 5. In one embodiment, the killing device is designed as a gas-operated captive bolt pistol 6; in an alternative embodiment, it is designed as a mechanical multi-snap trap 7. The killing device 6, 7 is positioned relative to the embankment 2, ramp 8, and feeding trough 5 such that a rat running from the feeding trough 4 via the ramp 8 to the feeding trough 5 passes through an effective zone of the killing device 6, 7. When the killing device 6, 7 is activated, the rat is killed as it passes through the effective zone. The geometric position of the effective zone is chosen such that the killed rodent falls away from the accessible surface of the ramp 2 or the ramp 8 by gravity and is carried towards the wastewater channel 3, where the carcass can be picked up by the wastewater and flushed away.

[0054] The killing device 6, 7 and, if applicable, the feeding tray 5 can be supported by a frame 9, which has several legs. The legs are connected to the frame 9 via at least one joint 10. The joint 10 is designed as a pivot joint and allows the legs to be folded relative to the frame 9, so that the device can be brought into a compact transport position for transport and insertion into the shaft. In the operating state, the legs are pivoted via the joint 10 into a standing position in which the frame 9 is supported on the embankment 2 and the position of the feeding trays 4, 5 and the killing device 6, 7 relative to the shaft wall 1, embankment 2 and wastewater channel 3 is maintained in a defined position.

[0055] In Fig.Figure 2 shows a schematic side view of a system for controlling rodents in a sewer. A wastewater channel 3 is shown centrally, through which the wastewater flows through the shaft. A ledge 2 is arranged to the side of the wastewater channel 3, extending along the channel and forming a dry or only slightly moistened surface that rodents use as a walking and resting area.

[0056] A feeding tray 4 is arranged on the verge 2, forming a first feeding station. Feeding tray 4 rests on the surface of verge 2 used by the rodents, allowing them direct access to the first feeding station from their walking and resting area. Above verge 2, a further feeding tray 5 is shown, forming a second, elevated feeding station. Feeding tray 5 is positioned in an area raised above feeding tray 4, so that the second feeding station is only accessible via an intervening walkway, which the rodents use to reach it.

[0057] A killing device is arranged between feeding tray 4 and feeding tray 5. In one embodiment, this device is a captive bolt pistol 6, and in an alternative embodiment, it is a multi-snap trap 7. The effective area defined by the killing device 6, 7 is positioned relative to the path used by the rodents such that the path from the first feeding station on feeding tray 4 to the second feeding station on feeding tray 5 leads across this effective area. An animal moving between the feeding stations thus crosses the effective area and is caught there when the killing device 6, 7 is activated. The arrangement is designed so that a rodent killed within the effective area falls by gravity towards the drainage channel 3 without permanently blocking the path or the feeding stations.

[0058] The killing device 6, 7 and the feeding trays 4, 5 can be supported by a frame 9, the legs of which are connected to a support frame of the frame 9 via a joint 10. The joint 10 is designed as a pivot joint and allows the legs to be folded in relative to the support frame into a transport position and unfolded into an operating position. In the operating position, the legs, pivoted via the joint 10, support the frame 9, for example, on the embankment 2 and hold the feeding trays 4, 5 and the killing device 6, 7 in a defined position relative to the wastewater channel 3 and the shaft wall 1. In the transport position, the frame 9, with its legs folded in, has a more compact geometry, which facilitates the insertion and removal of the system through a shaft opening. Reference symbol list 1 shaft wall 2 Banquet 3 Wastewater channel 4 feeding bowls on banquet 5 Feeding bowl top 6. Bolt shot (killing device) 7 Multi-snap trap 8 Ascent for Rats 9 frame 10 joint QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 082 412 B1

[0003] DE 20 2017 107 622 U1

[0003] WO 2010 / 101481 A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Device for controlling rodents, comprising a killing agent (6, 7) and a carrier with a carrier surface that rodents can walk on, wherein the killing agent (6, 7) is attached to the carrier and defines an effective area extending along a section of the carrier surface frequented by rodents, the killing agent (6, 7) is oriented relative to the carrier in such a way that a rodent killed in the effective area falls away from the carrier surface by gravity and the effective area remains open for a subsequent rodent, and the killing device (6, 7) has at least one triggering device projecting into the effective area, which can be actuated by a rodent crossing the effective area to trigger a killing process, wherein the killing device (6, 7) is switchable between an activated state and a deactivated state. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized by, that the killing agent (6, 7) is detachably attached to the carrier. [3] Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by , that the killing device (6, 7) is pivotable relative to the carrier, in particular about a pivot axis which is substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the carrier. [4] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the triggering device is designed as a mechanical actuating element which, when the rodent crosses the effective area, is displaced by it and thereby actuates a triggering mechanism of the killing device (6, 7). [5] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that below the effective area a transport track designed as a chute is arranged, onto which a killed rodent falls and along which the rodent is guided away from the carrier into a collection or disposal area. [6] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the support is designed as an essentially elongated, in particular tubular component, especially as a pipe, conduit or rod-shaped element. [7] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the killing device (6, 7) comprises a receiver which is designed to wirelessly receive an activation signal from a transmitter and which, depending on the activation signal, brings the killing device (6, 7) into the activated state. [8] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the killing device (6, 7) comprises a striking body, in particular a striking bolt, which is movable between a rest position and a striking position and is moved into the striking position during the killing process. [9] Device according to claim 8, characterized by, that the striking element is driven by a pressure medium, in particular by compressed gas from an interchangeable cartridge coupled to the killing means (6, 7). [10] Device according to claim 9, characterized by , that the striking body is guided in a working space which is connected to the pressure medium source via at least one valve in a controllable manner, and that the pressure medium acts alternately on different effective surfaces of the striking body to move the striking body into the striking position and to return the striking body to the rest position. [11] Device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized by , that the killing agent (6, 7) comprises a body that is at least partially sleeved and surrounds the area of ​​effect at least partially. [12] Device according to claim 11, characterized by , that the triggering agent protrudes into an interior space of the sleeve-shaped body. [13] Device according to claim 11, characterized by , that the striking body moves essentially orthogonally to a longitudinal axis of the sleeve-shaped body during the killing process. [14] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that the killing device (6, 7) comprises a snap trap with a base body, a support for the rodents arranged on the base body and a striking bar pivotally mounted on the base body, which can be adjusted from a tensioned position under spring force to a striking position and is triggered when the rodent steps onto the support. [15] Device according to claim 14, characterized by, that the base body is rotatable by means of a rotary drive about a pivot axis running transversely to the adjustment direction of the striking arm, that in the rotation path of the striking arm there is a stop which holds the striking arm in place when the base body is rotated while the base body continues to rotate so that the striking arm is moved into the clamping position relative to the support, and that the striking arm is released from the stop as soon as the striking arm has reached its clamping position relative to the support, whereby during the rotational movement a killed rodent lying on the support falls off the support. [16] Device according to claim 14 or 15, characterized by, that the striking bar has two bar sections arranged at an angle to each other, preferably essentially U-shaped, which are connected to each other, in particular formed in one piece, wherein a first bar section is designed as a striking element for killing the rodent and a second bar section cooperates with the stop. [17] System for controlling rodent pests, comprising at least one device according to one of claims 1 to 16 and at least one first feeding place (4) and at least one second feeding place (5), wherein the first feeding place (4) is located in an area of ​​a runway used by rodents that is spaced away from the area of ​​effect of the killing agent (6, 7), the second feeding place (5) is located in close proximity to the area of ​​effect of the killing agent (6, 7), and a walkway (8) providing access to the second feeding place (5) runs through the area of ​​effect of the killing agent (6, 7), and the system has means for setting at least two operating states, namely an accustoming state in which the killing agent (6, 7) is deactivated and the feeding places (4, 5) are freely accessible to the rodents, and a killing state in which the killing agent (6, 7) is activated, so that in the accustoming state rodents accustomed to feeding at the feeding places (4, 5) are killed in the killing state when seeking out the second feeding place (5) within the effective range of the killing agent (6, 7) and fall away from the carrier by gravity. [18] System according to claim 17, characterized by, that the system comprises at least one frame (9), wherein the frame (9) has a support frame with a first support surface (30) and a second support surface spaced apart from it, wherein the first support surface is designed to receive the first feeding place (4) and the second support surface is designed to receive the second feeding place (5), wherein the device with the killing means (6, 7) is arranged on the frame (9) such that its effective area lies between the first support surface and the second support surface in an area frequented by the rodents when seeking the second feeding place (5), and wherein the frame (9) has legs for support on a base. [19] System according to claim 18, characterized by that the frame (9) has at least one joint (10) by means of which the legs can be pivoted relative to the support frame between a transport position and an operating position. [20] System according to any one of claims 18 to 19, characterized by that the system includes a control unit which is connected to a communication module for data exchange. [21] System according to any one of claims 18 to 20, characterized by , that the system includes a feeder designed for the metered dispensing of feed at at least one feeding station (4, 5).

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