Method and device for the acoustic repulsion of pests

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for acoustically repelling pests. To this end, information means obtain information representative of at least one burst duration (Ts), randomly select at least one frequency from a set of frequencies associated with said pests and stored in a memory communicating with said processor, said frequency being associated with said burst duration (Ts), and generate a signal representative of a repellent sound associated with said frequency and said burst duration. Figure 5

Description

Title of the invention: Method and device for the sonic repulsion of pests technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of pest control.

[0002] The present invention relates more particularly to a method and device for pest repellent, allowing pests to be kept away from an area without killing them and without disturbing the environment through the use of chemicals.

[0003] The present invention will thus find many advantageous applications in the field of securing installations and premises with high stakes in safety or hygiene maintenance, for example food storage facilities or sanitary facilities. State of the art

[0004] The Applicant observes that numerous solutions have been developed to repel harmful animal species, particularly rats. These solutions aim to prevent pests from accessing or proliferating in a sensitive area, for example, to protect a food supply or to prevent the spread of pathogens.

[0005] It is known to use chemical repellents in the form of sprays, granules, or gels. Some repellents use natural substances such as pepper, menthol, or peppermint oil, while others use specific chemicals to deter pests from approaching. However, the effectiveness of chemical repellents can vary, and pests can develop a tolerance to the repellent substances over time. Chemical repellents also target a specific range of pests, and a single repellent may, for example, be limited to specific species. Finally, the chemicals used can cause environmental damage.

[0006] It is also known to employ traps, particularly rat traps, to capture and / or kill rats. Traps can be of various types, including jaw traps, sticky traps, and cage traps. Jaw traps are designed to kill rats quickly, while sticky traps and cage traps allow them to be captured alive. Cage traps offer the advantage of allowing the rats to be released in another location, but they require careful handling to avoid injuring the operator. Traps also naturally require maintenance to retain their effectiveness, for example, to reset a jaw trap or empty a cage trap, and They thus have limited autonomy without regular intervention. Obviously, the traps are also specific to a given pest species.

[0007] Installing physical barriers is another approach to repelling pests. This can include using wire mesh, netting, or caulking materials to prevent rats from entering a given space. Physical barriers are particularly effective when used to seal potential entry points such as holes in walls, pipes, or ducts. A barrier with a sufficiently fine mesh can also repel a wide range of pests. However, their use is limited to sealing ducts not used by humans, and thus remains primarily restricted to pipes or ventilation ducts.

[0008] Another solution involves the use of ultrasonic devices. Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds to disturb pests and deter them from approaching a given area. The use of ultrasound, inaudible to the human ear, also allows for their installation without disrupting human activity. These devices also do not generate any immediate pollution and simply repel pests without causing damage. These devices are often used in indoor spaces such as warehouses, attics, and homes. However, the effectiveness of ultrasound in repelling pests can decrease over time, as pests can become accustomed to the sounds and ignore them. Thus, it has been shown in many experiments that rats are disturbed by the use of ultrasound, causing them to avoid the source of the noise, but that they tend to become accustomed to and then ignore ultrasonic devices.

[0009] The Applicant therefore submits that there is currently no satisfactory alternative solution for pest repellent, which is both simple to install and suitable for many spaces, maintenance-free, and whose effectiveness is maintained over time. Summary of the invention

[0010] The present invention aims to improve the current situation described above.

[0011] The present invention is more particularly aimed at overcoming the following drawbacks: above all by offering a sound-based pest repellent solution whose effectiveness lasts over time.

[0012] To this end, the object of the present invention relates in a first aspect to a sound-based pest repellent method, the method being implemented by at least one processor, the method comprising the following steps: - first acquisition of information representative of at least one salvo duration; - random selection of at least one frequency from a set of frequencies associated with the pests and stored in a memory communicating with the processor, the frequency being associated with the burst duration; and - generation of a signal representative of a repulsive sound associated with the frequency and duration of the burst.

[0013] It is understood here that the signal is intended to characterize a repellent sound, that is to say, a sound whose frequency is adapted to repel the pest. The signal corresponds, for example, to a control signal for a speaker, loudspeaker, transducer, or other device.

[0014] It is also understood that the set of frequencies corresponds to a plurality of frequencies, or a frequency range, corresponding to sounds audible to pests, and preferably sounds that disturb or repel pests.

[0015] Thus, the signal characterizes a sound enabling the repulsion of pests, this sound comprising the emission, during the duration of the burst, of a sound at a randomly selected frequency. The execution of the method therefore results in the generation of a signal comprising a succession of bursts, each burst having a randomly selected frequency and continuing for the duration of the burst.

[0016] In other words, the process generates a signal whose frequency varies randomly over time, between several frequencies allowing the repulsion of pests.

[0017] The Applicant submits that the variation in frequencies results in the emission of a sound sufficiently varied to prevent habituation in pests. The constant change in frequencies prevents the pest from becoming accustomed to the sound and allows the effectiveness of the sound repellent to be maintained over time.

[0018] Thanks to the present invention, pests can be repelled using a single solution combining the known advantages of ultrasonic devices in terms of ease of installation, ergonomics, lack of maintenance, compliance with environmental constraints and non-lethal solution, while overcoming the major drawback of pests becoming accustomed over time.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a sound reproduction from the signal.

[0020] As stated previously, the signal allows the sound to be characterized to be emitted to repel pests. The method therefore includes in this embodiment a reproduction of the characterized sound, via a sound device, preferably using a transducer.

[0021] In an additional embodiment, the frequency set corresponds to an ultrasonic frequency set.

[0022] It is understood here that the selection of ultrasonic frequencies makes it possible to ensure that the process results in the generation of sounds inaudible to humans, and can therefore be implemented in a wide range of situations without impacting human activities.

[0023] Preferably, the frequency set corresponds to a set of frequencies between 20kHz and 65kHz.

[0024] It is understood here that 20 kHz corresponds to the upper limit of the audible frequency range for the human ear, although this threshold varies with age and between individuals. 65 kHz corresponds to the upper limit of the audible frequency range for a rat. It is also possible to design other variants in which the frequency range is above 20 kHz and below another upper limit of the audible frequency range associated with another pest species.

[0025] Preferably, the frequency set corresponds to a frequency set between 27kHz and 61.5kHz.

[0026] Such a set of frequencies makes it possible to keep very wide variations in the usable frequencies, while providing additional safety, by avoiding frequencies that are too low and likely to be at the limit of human hearing, and frequencies that are too high and likely not to be audible by all rats.

[0027] It is also conceivable to restrict the frequency range to the most inconvenient interval for the pest. Some experiments show that a range between 40 kHz and 48 kHz is particularly disturbing to rats, but using a narrower frequency range can also facilitate habituation over time.

[0028] In a particular embodiment, the first obtaining corresponds to a random selection of the burst duration from a set of burst durations stored in memory.

[0029] Preferably, the salvo duration is between 220ps and 860ps.

[0030] It is understood here that the duration of each salvo is also randomized, so that the signal results in the generation of random sounds of random durations. The use of very short burst durations, here less than 1ms, guarantees constant and repeated variations.

[0031] The Applicant submits here that the combination of random frequencies and random burst duration further reduces the habituation of pests over time.

[0032] In an additional embodiment, the method further comprises a second obtaining of information representative of at least one pause duration between bursts, the signal being further generated as a function of the pause duration between bursts.

[0033] Preferably, the pause time between bursts is approximately equal to 600ps.

[0034] It is understood here that each burst is followed by a pause, the process then generating a signal corresponding to the emission of repulsive sounds whose frequency varies randomly, the sound being intermittently interrupted. The pause between bursts therefore corresponds to a time interval without sound emission, as opposed to the bursts themselves.

[0035] Preferably, each burst is followed by a pause, and each burst is associated with a randomly selected frequency. Of course, other variants can also be conceived in which the same burst of a given random frequency is interspersed with a pause.

[0036] In yet another embodiment, the second obtaining corresponds to a random selection of the pause duration between bursts from a set of pause durations between bursts stored in memory.

[0037] Preferably, the pause duration between salvos is between 400ps and 1000ops.

[0038] It is understood here that the pause between each salvo is then also variable, in combination with the other randomizations performed by the process. Each round therefore resumes, after the pause, according to a random interval. The habituation of the pests is thus reduced, as the generated signal is all the more unpredictable.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the process further comprises the following steps: - thirdly, obtaining information representative of at least one salvo series duration; and - fourth acquisition of information representative of at least one pause duration between series of bursts, the signal is further generated according to the duration of the series of bursts and the duration of the pause between series of bursts.

[0040] It is understood here that this design makes it possible to create successive periods of emission of a series of bursts, in which several bursts of different frequency follow one another, and pauses between series of bursts, corresponding to a time interval without emission of sounds.

[0041] This design can be combined with the previous embodiment, so that the bursts of the same series are interspersed with pauses between bursts, for a duration corresponding to the duration of the series of bursts, until the series of bursts is interrupted by a pause between series of bursts, for a duration corresponding to the duration of the pause between series of bursts.

[0042] In a specific embodiment, the third obtaining corresponds to a random selection of the duration of series of bursts from a set of durations of series of bursts stored in memory.

[0043] Preferably, the duration of series of bursts is between 6ms and 10ms.

[0044] Thus, each series of salvos also extends over a random duration, reducing habituation of the pests.

[0045] In another embodiment that can be combined with the previous embodiment, the fourth attainment corresponds to a random selection of the pause duration between series of bursts from a set of pause durations between series of bursts stored in memory.

[0046] Preferably, the pause duration between series of bursts is between 25ms and 300ms.

[0047] Thus, the pause between each series of attacks also has a random duration, reducing habituation in pests. In other words, each series of attacks resumes, after the pause, with an unpredictable delay.

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the method further comprises a fifth obtaining at least one piece of information representative of a type of pest, the frequency being selected randomly from a set of frequencies associated with the type of pest.

[0049] It is understood here that each set of frequencies is determined so as to be audible, and to allow the repellent, of a given type of pest. For example, three distinct types of pests are envisaged: - crawling insects; - small rodents, such as mice or voles; and - large rodents, such as rats, weasels or martens.

[0050] Thus, each type of pest is associated with a set of frequencies. For example, three sets of frequencies are provided for the three types of pests: - for crawling insects: the frequencies 27kHz, 31.2kHz, 54.2kHz and 61.5kHz; - for small rodents: the frequencies 27kHz, 31.2kHz, 54.2kHz and 61.5kHz; and - for large rodents: the frequencies 27 kHz, 31.2kHz, 38kHz, 54.2kHz and 61.5kHz.

[0051] It is understood here that there may be overlaps between sets of frequencies. In particular, the presence of the same frequencies among several types of pests makes it possible to simplify the implementation of the process and / or the sound reproduction by reducing the total number of distinct frequencies to be processed.

[0052] Obviously, it is understood here that it is possible to define a wide variety of types of pests, according to the total number of pest species to be repelled, the number of categories allowing them to be differentiated, and their particular sensitivities to sound repellency techniques.

[0053] In one embodiment, the method further comprises a sixth acquisition of information representative of at least one operating mode duration, and The fifth acquisition corresponds to a random selection of the pest type from a set of pest types stored in memory, the pest type being associated with the duration of the operating mode.

[0054] In other words, this design allows for automatic switching between different operating modes of the process, each operating mode being characterized by a type of pest and an associated set of frequencies. The signal generated by the process therefore evolves over time between the operating modes, so as to generate a repellent sound adapted to different types of pests. The same signal is thus adapted to a wide range of pests, without being restricted to the weaknesses of a given pest type.

[0055] It is understood here that the potential overlap of frequencies between several sets of frequencies can facilitate habituation, but also allows to maintain effectiveness against a first type of pest when operating in a mode adapted to a second type of pest, while adding variations by adding other frequencies.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the fifth attainment corresponds to the reception of a pest type stored in memory and corresponding to a given setting. According to another embodiment, the fifth attainment corresponds to the reception of information representing a manual selection of a pest type, for example, via a button allowing switching between different pest types. Such a manual selection is, for example, combined with the provision of an indicator light showing the selected operating mode, making it possible to determine the generated signal even if it is inaudible to the human ear.

[0057] In an additional embodiment, the sixth attainment corresponds to a random selection of an operating mode duration from a set of operating mode durations stored in memory.

[0058] Preferably, the operating mode duration is between 1 s and 7 s.

[0059] It is understood here that the duration of each operating mode is also random, making the return of a disturbing sound all the more unpredictable for a specific type of pest and reducing habituation.

[0060] It is also understood that a relatively short operating mode duration makes it possible to avoid prolonging the generation of an ineffective sound against a given type of pest, and therefore to avoid periods of inactivity during which an insensitive pest could enter.

[0061] In one embodiment, the method further includes a first phase, called the test phase, which includes the generation of a signal representative of a sound associated with a frequency audible to the human ear.

[0062] Advantageously, the steps of obtaining, selecting and generating are included in a second phase, called the operating phase, subsequent to the first phase.

[0063] Preferably, the first phase lasts about 5 seconds.

[0064] It is understood here that the first phase ensures the proper functioning of the process and / or device implementing the process, the signal generated during the second phase not being designed to allow such verification.

[0065] It is further understood that all the optional steps of the embodiments described above are grouped in the second phase. It is also understood that the method may include a reproduction of the audible signal generated during the first phase.

[0066] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a computer program comprising instructions for implementing the method according to the first aspect of the present invention, in particular when these instructions are executed by a processor.

[0067] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a computer-readable recording medium on which is recorded a computer program comprising instructions for carrying out the steps of the process according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0068] On the one hand, the recording medium can be any entity or device capable of storing the program. For example, the medium can include a storage means, such as a ROM, a CD-ROM or a microelectronic circuit-type ROM, or a magnetic recording means or a hard disk drive.

[0069] On the other hand, this recording medium can also be a transmissible medium such as an electrical or optical signal, such a signal being able to be transmitted via an electrical or optical cable, by conventional or radio frequency, by self-directing laser beam, or by other means. The computer program according to the present invention can, in particular, be downloaded from an Internet-type network.

[0070] Alternatively, the recording medium may be an integrated circuit in which the computer program is incorporated, the integrated circuit being adapted to execute or to be used in the execution of the process in question.

[0071] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a sound-based pest repellent device, the device comprising: - a memory recording a set of frequencies associated with pests; - a selection unit configured to obtain information representative of a burst duration, and to randomly select at least one frequency from the set of frequencies, the frequency being associated with the burst duration; and - a generation circuit configured to generate a signal representative of a repulsive sound associated with the selected frequency and burst duration.

[0072] Preferably, the device includes computer means configured for implementing the steps of the process according to the first aspect of the present invention. The device includes, for example, a transducer configured to reproduce a sound from the signal generated by the generation circuit. The generation circuit is, for example, configured to generate a signal representative of a sound associated with a frequency audible to the human ear. The selection unit is, for example, configured to obtain and / or randomly select one or more of the following pieces of information, described above: - information representing the duration of the salvo; - information representing the duration of pauses between volleys; - information representing the duration of a series of salvos; - information representing the duration of pauses between sets of volleys; - information representative of the type of pest; and - information representative of the duration of the operating mode.

[0073] The device optionally includes one or more indicator lights controlled by computer means and allowing to indicate the operation of the device, its power supply status, its transition to first and / or second phase, the operating mode of the device, etc.

[0074] The device includes, for example, a microprocessor or corresponds to the microprocessor itself, encompassing all the computing resources listed above.

[0075] The random selection of the selection circuit is performed, for example, via an Analog-to-Digital Converter, or ADC, which generates random signals by measuring input noise. The random selection then corresponds to a selection further based on the random noise at the input. It is understood here, of course, that any other technique for generating random data can be implemented for any random selection step.

[0076] The generation circuit includes, for example, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) outputs, preferably two PWM outputs generating complementary square wave signals. The PWM outputs then provide a usable output signal for the transducer. The transducer includes, for example, at least one MOSFET (Metal-Oxide Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor). metal-oxide-semiconductor structure"), the MOSFET receiving the signal and modulating the current applied to the transducer from the signal.

[0077] The computer means also include one or more timers, or "timer", allowing the timing of all operations, in particular the frequency variations according to the durations of bursts, pauses, etc.

[0078] A person skilled in the art understands that the memory, the selection unit, the generation circuit and the computing means, individually or in combination, can be integrated into a single integrated circuit, into several integrated circuits and / or into discrete components, be implemented in the form of electronic circuits or software (or computer) modules or a combination of electronic circuits and software modules.

[0079] All of these elements are for example grouped together in a tropicalized electronic board for its resistance to humidity, the device comprising a housing forming an enclosure for the electronic board, the housing being for example made of stainless steel.

[0080] In one embodiment, the device has a first port configured to be connected to a power supply and a second port capable of electrically supplying another device.

[0081] In other words, the device is configured both to receive an external power supply, and to power a second device from that power supply.

[0082] The Applicant submits that this method of implementation allows the chain connection of devices from a single power supply unit, the same power supply unit then being able to receive in chain up to 10 devices, connected in series.

[0083] According to yet another variant, the device has communication connectors and means of communication configured to transmit the information determined during the execution of the process.

[0084] This implementation method thus allows the synchronization of several units with each other, for example from a "mother" or main unit. This synchronization makes it possible, in particular, to adapt the operation of several units in a single interaction, for example with a single manual selection of a pest type resulting in the transmission of information representing that pest type to all connected units.

[0085] The Applicant submits, however, that this variant increases the size of the housing, and that an automatic change between the different operating modes, as described above, allows for more advantageous operation in a simplified and compact design.

[0086] Thus, through the various functional and structural technical characteristics described above, the Applicant proposes a sound repulsion method and device pest control solutions combine the advantages of existing, previously known solutions into a single, easy-to-use, simple-to-install, environmentally friendly, non-lethal solution that does not interfere with human activity, requires no maintenance, and does not lead to pests developing resistance over time. Such a solution can also be advantageously adapted to a wide range of pests without hindering their function. Brief description of the figures

[0087] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the specific and non-limiting embodiments of the present invention below, with reference to the attached Figures 1 to 5, in which:

[0088] [Fig.1]

[0089] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a sound-based pest repellent device, according to a first embodiment;

[0090] [Fig.2]

[0091] Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a sound-based pest repellent device, according to a second embodiment;

[0092] [Fig.3]

[0093] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a processor of a device conforming to [Fig.1];

[0094] [Fig.4]

[0095] [Fig.4] illustrates a flowchart of the different stages of a sound-based pest repellent process, implemented by a device conforming to [Fig.1] or 2;

[0096] [Fig.5]

[0097] Figure [5] illustrates a timing diagram of a signal generated by a process conforming to Figure [4],

[0098] Description of examples of implementation

[0099] A method and a device for the sound repulsion of pests will now be described in what follows with joint reference to Figures 1 to 5. The same elements are identified with the same reference signs throughout the description that follows.

[0100] As stated in the preamble to the description, current pest repellent solutions all present a variety of advantages and disadvantages, including chemical devices, traps, barriers, and ultrasonic devices. In particular, ultrasonic devices encounter problems with pests becoming habituated over time, reducing their long-term effectiveness.

[0101] One of the objectives of the present invention is to offer a more effective sound repellent, retaining its effectiveness over time, and thus enabling a unique and simple solution for pest control.

[0102] This is made possible in the example described below, which considers a sound repellent method for pests implemented by a physical box equipped with sound reproduction means.

[0103] It will be understood here that this example is not limiting and that the process can be implemented by a variety of computer and / or software means, in particular for subsequent playback of the sound via a remote device.

[0104] According to the example in Figures 1 and 2, a sound-based pest repellent device 1 is in the form of a box 11. The box is equipped with a transducer 12 and one or more indicator lights 13.

[0105] The example in [Fig. 1] illustrates a more compact design of the device 1, in which the housing 11 has dimensions of 114 mm x 52 mm x 24 mm and is provided with a single indicator light 13. The example in [Fig. 2] presents a second design of the device 1, in which the housing has dimensions of 135 mm x 65 mm x 40 mm, has a plurality of indicator lights 13 and a button 14 allowing interaction with the device 1, as described below.

[0106] The housing 11 is also equipped with power connectors. According to the example in Figures 1 and 2, a first port 151 is thus provided configured to be connected to a power supply, for example a 12V power supply.

[0107] According to an advantageous embodiment illustrated by [Fig. 1], the housing 11 also has a second port 152 suitable for supplying power to another device, in particular another housing 11. A plurality of devices 1 can then be connected in chain (or in series), by connecting the second port 152 of a first device 1 with the first port 151 of a second device 1. A single power supply unit can then receive up to 10 devices 1 connected in chain and linked via power cables, allowing the chain of devices 1 to be arranged on the perimeter of a space to be protected, or in any other arrangement depending on the length of the cables used and the use case.

[0108] In accordance with the underlying concept of the invention, device 1 also includes computer means configured to implement a sound-based pest repellent method, for example method 2 of [Fig.4].

[0109] As illustrated in [Fig. 3], such computing means are advantageously grouped together in an electronic device 10, for example a processor or a microprocessor (hereinafter referred to as "processor"). The processor 10 is configured, for example, to transmit and receive data with respect to all the components of the device 1. The elements of the processor 10, Individually or in combination, they can be integrated into a single integrated circuit, into multiple integrated circuits, and / or into discrete components. The processor 10 can be implemented in the form of electronic circuits and software modules.

[0110] Preferably, the processor components 10 are grouped on an electronic board, the electronic board being, for example, tropicalized to ensure its resistance to humidity. The housing 11 is advantageously also made of a moisture-resistant material, for example, stainless steel. The use of a stainless steel housing 11 forming an enclosure for a tropicalized electronic board then ensures the proper functioning of the device 1 in humid environments and allows its installation in a large number of locations without being damaged.

[0111] Device 1 includes, for example, a linear voltage regulator between the first port 151 and the processor 10. The voltage regulator is configured, for example, to take a 12V input from the mains supply and reduce it to 3.3V, or to any other voltage required to power the microprocessor. Device 1 also includes, for example, a diode between the first port 151 and the processor 10 to prevent damage in case of reverse polarity.

[0112] The processor 10 is thus configured to execute instructions for carrying out the steps of the process and / or for executing the instructions of the software embedded in the processor 10. The processor 10 may include integrated memory, an input / output interface, and various circuits known to those skilled in the art. The processor 10 further includes a memory 101 corresponding, for example, to volatile and / or non-volatile memory and / or includes a memory storage device which may include volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as EEPROM, ROM, PROM, RAM, DRAM, SRAM, flash, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0113] The computer code of the embedded software(s) including the instructions to be loaded and executed by the processor is for example stored on the memory 101 of the processor 10.

[0114] As stated above, the processor 10 is configured for implementing a sound-based pest repellent method within a method for reproducing a repellent sound, wherein the quantities determined during the method according to the invention, in particular the signal described below, are used as input data for reproducing a repellent sound. According to other embodiments, the processor 10 is configured solely for generating the signal described below, this signal being, for example, subsequently processed by external sound reproduction means.

[0115] In an optional first PI phase of the sound repulsion process, also called the test phase, the processor 10 generates a signal representative of a sound associated with a frequency audible to the human ear. The processor 10 includes, for example, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], a generation circuit 103 configured to generate a signal representative of a sound. The generation circuit 103 includes, for example, two PWM outputs configured to generate complementary square wave signals. The generation circuit 103 is advantageously in communication with MOSFETs 121 associated with the transducer 12. The MOSFETs 121 are then driven by the signal emitted by the PWMs and control the transducer 12 at 12V.

[0116] It is understood here that the signal representing a sound associated with a frequency audible to the human ear can correspond to any type of signal, for example, a signal pre-recorded in memory 101. The selection of an audible frequency thus makes it possible to indicate the activation, as well as the proper functioning, of device 1, before the execution of the rest of the process. In particular, this design allows the production of an audible sound before the production of the repellent sound, which is preferably inaudible to the human ear.

[0117] Optionally, the generation circuit 103 is also configured to generate a control signal for the indicator lights 13, for example, a signal specific to the first phase PI to indicate to a user that the device 1 is starting up. In particular, a mismatch between the emission of an audible signal and the behavior of the indicator lights 13 clearly indicates the presence of a malfunction in the device 1, for example, a failure of the indicator lights 13 or of the transducer 12. Of course, the generation circuit 103 can also generate other control signals for the indicator lights 13 outside of the first phase PL

[0118] Following the first phase PI, the processor 10 then enters a second phase P2, called the operating phase. The processor 10 is, for example, configured to remain in the first phase PI for a predetermined duration, for example, 5 seconds. The processor 10 advantageously includes at least one timer 105 (or "timer") for timing the operations, in particular the transition to the second phase P2 and the sequence of steps described below.

[0119] In a first step 21 of the second phase P2, called first acquisition 21, the processor 10 obtains information representative of at least one burst duration Ts.

[0120] According to a first example, the burst duration Ts is recorded in memory 101 of processor 10. The burst duration Ts is therefore obtained directly by communication with memory 101.

[0121] According to a second preferred example, the burst duration Ts is obtained by a random selection of the burst duration Ts from a set of burst durations stored in memory 101. The set of burst durations corresponds, for example, to a continuous interval of burst durations, or to a set of discrete values ​​within this interval. The burst duration Ts is thus preferably between 220ps and 860ps. The processor 10 therefore includes a selection unit 102 configured to communicate with memory 101 and to perform a random selection of the burst duration Ts.

[0122] The processor 10 includes, for example, an ADC 104 that generates random signals, for example by measuring ambient noise at the input. The random selection described above, as well as any other random selection described below and implemented by the selection unit 102, thus corresponds to a determination based on random input data, the random input data preferably being received by communication with the ADC. It is understood here that any step enabling the implementation of random selection or the generation of random data can also be used by a person skilled in the art. By application to this example, the burst duration Ts is thus determined by the selection unit 102 from the set of burst durations and the random input data.

[0123] In a second step 27, the processor 10, for example the selection unit 102, performs a random selection of at least one frequency from a set of frequencies associated with the pests. The set of frequencies is advantageously stored in memory 101 and corresponds to frequencies suitable for deterring the pests, or at least audible to the pests.

[0124] The frequency is then associated with the burst duration Ts, so as to form, as illustrated in [Fig. 5] and described below, a burst 33 characterized by its own frequency and burst duration Ts. The bursts 33 produced therefore all have a random frequency, and optionally also a random burst duration Ts.

[0125] The frequency range advantageously corresponds to a range of ultrasonic frequencies, that is, frequencies beyond the range of human hearing. Thus, the bursts 33 produced during the execution of the method according to the invention are inaudible to users and do not disturb human activity. The frequency range is, for example, between 20 kHz and 65 kHz, between 27 kHz and 61.5 kHz, or within any interval defined, on the one hand, at its lower limit, by a frequency above human hearing, and on the other hand, at its upper limit, by a frequency above the hearing of pests.

[0126] Optionally, in a so-called fifth obtaining step 25, the processor 10 obtains information representative of a type of pest, the second step 27 being further carried out according to the type of pest. In other words, the unit selection 102 performs a random selection of at least one frequency from a set of frequencies associated with the determined pest type.

[0127] For example, three types of pests can be defined, and a set of frequencies can be assigned to each, in particular according to the following classification: - for crawling insects, the frequencies 27kHz, 31.2kHz, 54.2kHz and 61.5kHz; - for small rodents, the frequencies 27kHz, 31.2kHz, 54.2kHz and 61.5kHz; and - for large rodents, the frequencies 27kHz, 31.2kHz, 38kHz, 54.2kHz and 61.5kHz.

[0128] This design thus makes it possible to better define the action of the process with respect to the pests to be repelled, and therefore to ensure an effective repellent sound. The same process, and the same device 1, can therefore be adapted to control a wide variety of pests.

[0129] According to a first variant, the representative information of the type of pest is recorded in memory 101 and corresponds to a parameterization of device 1.

[0130] According to a second embodiment, the information representing the pest type corresponds to a selection of an operating mode for the device 1. The example in [Fig. 2] thus provides a button 14 for selecting the operating mode, i.e., the pest type. This same example also provides a plurality of indicator lights 13, each indicator light 13 being associated with a given operating mode, allowing the user to know the status of the device 1 without hearing it.

[0131] Optionally, the device 1 also includes communication means, for example integrated into the processor 10, and the housing is provided with communication connectors 161, 162, for example an input connector 161 and an output connector 162. In this design, the processor 10 is also configured to transmit and / or receive representative pest type information, particularly with respect to other similar devices 1. This design thus makes it possible, by changing the operating mode of the device 1 via the button 14, to synchronize any other connected device 1, and therefore to minimize the number of interactions required to configure the device.

[0132] The Applicant submits, however, that the provision of means of communication significantly increases the bulk of the box.

[0133] According to a third variant, the processor 10 then performs a sixth acquisition 26 of information representative of at least one operating mode duration Tmode*. The fifth acquisition 25 then corresponds to a random selection, via the selection circuit 102, of the pest type from among a set of pest types, or in other words, a random selection of the operating mode of the device 1. The randomly selected pest type is then associated with the operating mode duration Tmode. In other words, the information representative of the type of The pest type, and therefore the associated frequency set, corresponds to the pest type selected for the operating mode duration Tmode. The pest type is then randomly re-selected upon the expiration of the operating mode duration Tmode. The operating mode duration Tmode is, for example, between 1 and 7 seconds, to ensure frequent mode switching and avoid any prolonged period during which a pest of a given type hears no repellent sound.

[0134] This third variant thus allows an automatic change between the different operating modes of the device 1, without requiring means of communication, a button 14, or the provision of multiple indicator lights 13. The design of the device 1 can therefore be greatly simplified, resulting in a ratio of 2.5 between the volume of the device 1 according to [Fig.2], and the volume of the device 1 according to [Fig.1], which retains, for example, a single indicator light 13 allowing verification of the operation of the device 1. The autonomous and frequent change between the different modes therefore makes it possible to repel all the types of pests considered, rather than a single type determined or parameterized in advance.

[0135] Advantageously, the sixth attainment 26 also corresponds to a random selection of the operating mode duration Tmode from a set of operating mode durations stored in memory 101. The change between operating modes, and therefore the resumption of a repellent sound towards a given pest, becomes all the more unpredictable. The set of operating mode durations corresponds, for example, to an interval between 1 s and 7 s.

[0136] Thus, each burst 33 extends over a burst duration Ts, preferably random, and has a frequency randomly selected from a set of frequencies, preferably a set of frequencies associated with a type of pest also randomly selected.

[0137] In a third step 28, the processor 10, for example the generation circuit 103 described above, generates a signal representing a repulsive sound associated with the frequency and duration of the burst Ts obtained during the preceding steps. The repulsive sound is then, in the example considered here, reproduced from the signal via the MOSFETs 121 and the transducer 12, the generation circuit 103 optionally also generating a control signal for the LEDs 13 associated with the repulsive sound, for example associated with a slow or fast flashing of the LEDs 13.

[0138] Figure 5 thus illustrates a timing diagram 3 of a signal generated during the third step 28. The timing diagram 3 thus illustrates the evolution of the amplitude 31 of the signal over time 32, this evolution being decomposed, in accordance with the description above, into a succession of bursts 33 of burst duration Ts, each burst 33 exhibiting a specific frequency. In the example of [Fig. 5], each burst 33 has the same burst duration Ts. As stated above, this burst duration Ts can also vary randomly between each burst 33. All bursts 33 are associated with the same set of frequencies for the operating mode duration Tmode, after which the bursts 33 are associated with another randomly selected set of frequencies.

[0139] Optionally, the processor 10 performs a second acquisition 22 of information representative of at least one inter-burst pause duration Tp. The signal is then also generated as a function of the inter-burst pause duration Tp. In other words, each burst 33 is separated from the other bursts by an inter-burst pause Tp, as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. In this example, the inter-burst pause duration Tp corresponds to a fixed parameter stored in memory 101, for example, a duration of 600ps. According to another example, the second acquisition 22 also corresponds to a random selection of the pause duration Tp from a set of pause durations stored in memory 101. The set of pause durations corresponds, for example, to an interval between 400ps and 1000ops.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the processor 10, for example the selection circuit 102, also performs a third acquisition 23 of information representative of at least one burst series duration Ton, and a fourth acquisition 24 of information representative of at least one pause duration between burst series Toff. The signal is then also generated as a function of these two quantities. As illustrated by [Fig. 5], a plurality of bursts 33 follow one another over a burst series duration Ton, interspersed with a pause containing no bursts and defined by the pause duration between burst series Toff. The burst series duration Ton is, for example, between 6 ms and 10 ms, while the pause duration between burst series is between 25 ms and 300 ms.

[0141] According to a first example, the third obtaining 23 corresponds to a random selection of the duration of the series of bursts Ton from a set of durations of series of bursts recorded in said memory 101. Each series of bursts is therefore extended according to a duration determined randomly at each series of bursts, preventing habituation of the pests.

[0142] According to a second example compatible with the first example, the fourth obtaining 24 corresponds to a random selection of the pause duration between series of bursts Toff from a set of pause durations between series of bursts recorded in memory 101. Each series of bursts is therefore followed by a pause of random duration, the following series of bursts starting at the end of this random pause, preventing habituation of the pests.

[0143] It is understood here that, alternatively, the duration of the Ton burst series and / or the pause duration between Toff burst series can correspond to fixed values, received by direct communication with the memory 101. It is thus possible to design a method in which the duration of the Ton burst series and / or the pause duration between Toff burst series are random, or a method in which the duration of the Ton burst series and the pause duration between Toff burst series are fixed.

[0144] Thus, it will be understood that the present invention provides a method and a device for the sonic repulsion of pests, avoiding the main drawback associated with ultrasonic solutions by generating a signal with irregular and random behavior, thus limiting habituation in pests while ensuring the production of a sound unpleasant to them. Such a method can also be adapted for the sonic repulsion of a wide variety of pest species by controlled or autonomous modification of the frequency ranges used. This method can also be integrated into a broader method for reproducing a repellent sound, for example, via a transducer.

[0145] It should be noted that this detailed description relates to a particular embodiment of the present invention, but in no way does this description limit the scope of the invention; on the contrary, its purpose is to remove any possible inaccuracy or misinterpretation of the following claims.

[0146] It should also be noted that the reference signs in parentheses in the following claims are in no way intended to be limiting; these signs are solely intended to improve the intelligibility and understanding of the following claims and the scope of protection sought.

Claims

Demands

1. A method for sound-based pest repellency, said method being implemented by at least one processor, said method comprising the following steps: - first obtaining (21) information representative of at least one burst duration (Ts); - random selection (27) of at least one frequency from a set of frequencies associated with said pests and stored in a memory in communication with said processor, said frequency being associated with said burst duration (Ts); and - generation (28) of a signal representative of a repellent sound associated with said frequency and said burst duration (Ts), characterized in that said method further comprises the following steps: - third obtaining (23) information representative of at least one burst series duration (Ton);and - fourth obtaining (24) information representative of at least one pause duration between burst series (Toff), said signal being generated (28) further as a function of said burst series duration (Ton) and said pause duration between burst series (Toff), and in that said third obtaining (23) corresponds to a random selection of said burst series duration (Ton) from a set of burst series durations recorded in said memory.;

2. A method according to claim 1, further comprising a reproduction (29) of a sound from said signal.

3. A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said frequency set corresponds to an ultrasonic frequency set.

4. A method according to claim 3, wherein said frequency set corresponds to a frequency set between 20kHz and 65kHz.

5. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said first obtaining (21) corresponds to a random selection of said burst duration (Ts) from a set of burst durations stored in said memory.

6. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a second obtaining (22) of representative information of at least a pause duration between bursts (Tp), said signal being generated (28) further as a function of said pause duration between bursts (TP).

7. Method according to claim 6, wherein said second obtaining (22) corresponds to a random selection of said pause duration (Tp) from a set of pause durations stored in said memory.

8. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said fourth attainment (24) corresponds to a random selection of said pause duration between burst series (Toff) from a set of pause durations between burst series stored in said memory.

9. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a fifth obtaining (25) of at least one piece of information representative of a type of pest, said frequency being randomly selected from a set of frequencies associated with said type of pest.

10. A method according to claim 9, further comprising a sixth obtaining (26) of information representative of at least one operating mode duration (Tmode), and wherein said fifth obtaining (25) corresponds to a random selection of said pest type from a set of pest types recorded in said memory, said pest type being associated with said operating mode duration (Tmode).

11. A method according to claim 10, wherein said sixth attainment (26) corresponds to a random selection of an operating mode duration (Tmode) from a set of operating mode durations stored in said memory.

12. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a first phase (PI), referred to as the test phase, which includes the generation of a signal representative of a sound associated with a frequency audible to the human ear, and in which said obtaining (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26), selection (27) and generation (28) steps are included in a second phase (P2), referred to as the operating phase, subsequent to said first phase.

13. Computer program comprising instructions for carrying out the method according to any one of the preceding claims, when such instructions are executed by a processor.

14. Computer-readable recording medium on which is recorded a computer program comprising instructions for carrying out the steps of the process according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

15. A sound-based pest repellent device (1), said device (1) comprising: - a memory (101) recording a set of frequencies associated with said pests; - a selection unit (102) configured to obtain information representative of a burst duration, and to randomly select at least one frequency from said set of frequencies, said frequency being associated with said burst duration;and - a generation circuit (103) configured to generate a signal representative of a repulsive sound associated with said selected frequency and said burst duration, characterized in that said selection unit (102) is configured to obtain information representative of at least one burst series duration (Ton), and information representative of at least one pause duration between burst series (Toff), said signal being further generated as a function of said burst series duration (Ton) and said pause duration between burst series (Toff), and in that said selection unit (102) is configured to randomly select said burst series duration (Ton) from a set of burst series durations stored in said memory.;

16. Device according to claim 15 comprising computer means configured for the implementation of any one of claims 2 to 12.

17. Device according to claim 15 or 16, which has a first port (151) configured to be connected to a power supply and a second port (152) capable of electrically supplying another device.

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