Insect trap

Abstract

A device that blocks insects progressing on the trunk(1) of trees. The invention, called an "insect trap," is primarily adapted for ants. It consists of a first element, the collar(2), adapted to the circumference of the tree trunk(1). It incorporates a lightweight retaining plate(3) or frame(6). Its closure is made effective by the choice of two locking systems(5 or 5bis). An open tube(3) is glued onto the collar(2), forming two "skirts(9)." This is the main component responsible for stopping the ants. Once the trap is installed, a clamp(4) closes the entire assembly. The device according to the invention, placed on the trunk(1) of trees, is particularly intended to stop ants that cause damage to fruit trees. Figure to be published with the abbreviation [Fig 1]

Description

Title of the invention: Insect trap

[0001] The present invention relates to the implementation of a device fixed to the trunk(1) of trees, particularly fruit trees, in order to constitute an obstacle to insects (ants, etc.) that climb to reach the foliage mainly occupied by aphids. If a stake is installed, it will also be equipped with this device.

[0002] Insect control is traditionally carried out by using a product such as glue or other sticky products. Effective immediately upon application, they become less so after a few days as they dry and need to be reapplied. Another drawback is that traces of the product remain after use.

[0003] The device according to the invention makes it possible to remedy this drawback. It proves to be an insect barrier. After a few days, the insects disappear.

[0004] This device, or trap, according to the invention, comprises, for its realization, the assembly of 3 elements: a collar®, a tube®, a clamping collar®.

[0005] The diagram of the insect trap is shown in [Fig.1], [Fig.2], [Fig.6], [Fig.7]. 1st element - The necklace(2)

[0006] The first element of the trap, the collar®, attaches it to the trunk®. It is made of a flexible, resistant material capable of withstanding atmospheric conditions. It must easily conform to the trunk® and the imperfections of the bark.

[0007] The manufacture of "foam" material for insulating sleeves for water pipes in a boiler room can serve as a model for making a collar®.

[0008] Due to its shape, it will offer resistance to deformation. Featuring shape memory like the collar®, a thin frame (6') made of plastic or other material, or a very fine mesh, of the same shape and dimensions as the collar®, is incorporated into it. This addition reinforces it and provides a spring effect when closed. After opening, insertion, and release, the collar® is firmly positioned on the trunk®.

[0009] The manufacturing process can be envisaged in at least two ways: a. From a pipe, reinforced with the armature (6 \ cut lengthwise, circles are cut to obtain collars®, b. By injection into a mold.

[0010] A single trap cannot be suitable for all trees. Each tree has its own dimensions, so a referenced range - for example 8-10, 10-12, 12-14 centimeters (corresponding to the circumference of commercially sold trunks) - must be offered.

[0011] The detail of the collar® is shown in [Fig.3], [Fig.4]. 1st element - Example of a necklace (2)

[0012] Trap for a tree trunk (1) with a circumference between 8 and 10 centimeters. For a tree with a circumference of 9 cm, which falls between these two dimensions, the collar® will not fit snugly on the trunk®. It will be loose. To overcome this drawback, a simple solution is proposed. This involves increasing the circumference of the collar® by several millimeters or centimeters to create one of the two expandable closure systems shown in [Fig. 1], [Fig. 2], [Fig. 3], [Fig. 4], [Fig. 6] at each end. One of the systems will allow the circumference of the collar® to be increased or decreased by a male / female sliding mechanism. The same effect will occur through the sliding of the two opposing parts – head to tail (5bls) – (second system). After positioning, the closure is airtight. The collar® is held firmly on the trunk®, and insects cannot pass between the trunk® and the collar®. 2nd element - The tube(3)

[0013] This is the main and determining component of the trap. It is responsible for interrupting the insects' progress up the trunk® towards the foliage. 2nd element - Tube composition(3)

[0014] Pre-formed during manufacturing in the form of a tube®, it is presented as a sheet, made of plastic or other material, preferably transparent, thin and rigid, rolled and glued (except at the closure) around the collar®. Its length is several centimeters, its circumference is equal to that of the collar®, increased by several millimeters or centimeters so that the two edges overlap®.

[0015] This overlap® allows the circumference of the tube® to increase or decrease by accompanying the collar® and ensures the sealing of the device.

[0016] When in place, the tube® reveals "two skirts®", several centimeters high; one lower, the other upper (inverted). On both faces of the skirts®, which are initially smooth, small imperfections® can be created to "hinder" the progress of insects (a few cm² are shown for clarity).

[0017] The detail of the tube (3' is shown in [Fig.5]. 2nd element - Role of the tube(3)

[0018] The tube® is the main obstacle encountered by the insect. Unable to pass between the collar® and the trunk®, it finds itself in the presence of the lower skirt®. From then on, its path is as follows:

[0019] H must lower the skirt®. Once at the bottom, it must pass outside and ascend the tube® completely. To progress, it must pass inside the skirt(9) upper and descend to the level of the collar®. From there, it can resume its path towards the foliage or retrace its steps.

[0020] The difficulties encountered “discourage” the insects, which give up after a few days. 3rd element - The hose clamp(4)

[0021] H is a strip of plastic or other material, the width of the collar®. It is glued to it except at one end which, at the closure, will be adjusted to firmly hold the entire trap. Miscellaneous

[0022] The components described for the manufacture of the collar®, the tube®, and the clamping collar® will evolve due to environmental constraints. Adaptations will need to be made.

Claims

Demands

1. A device fixed to a tree trunk(1) to prevent insects from entering the foliage of trees, particularly fruit trees, to reach aphids, comprising a collar® and a tube0' assembled in that order and held firmly by a clamping collar® characterized in that: • the collar® is made of a flexible material, capable of withstanding weathering and conforming to imperfections in the bark, and possessing shape memory during manufacturing; • a thin plate, such as plastic or a very fine wire mesh of hardened steel, is incorporated therein, both of which retain the shape memory obtained during their manufacture and press the collar® against the trunk® like a spring; • a range of collars® of increasing dimensions is envisaged to accommodate the sizes of the trunks;• the collar® has two different closure systems, one by male / female sliding®, the other by head / tail sliding(5bls) allowing an increase or decrease in the circumference of the collar®.;

2. Device according to claim 1 characterized in that: • the tube® is made from a material such as plastic or other rigid material, capable of retaining shape memory, representing a sheet rolled up and glued in the middle onto the collar® so that the tube® in place shows two “skirts®”, one lower, the other upper; • the tube has a circumference equal to that of the collar(2), increased by several millimeters or centimeters so that the two edges overlap(7) ensuring the closure of the tube and its sealing; • the material composing the tube® may optionally have imperfections0' on each face made intentionally in order to hinder the progression of insects and stop their movement.

3. Device according to claim 1 and 2 characterized in that the clamping collar(4) locks the trap on the trunk(1).

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