Trap and method for attracting flying insects to an insect trap

Abstract

The present invention relates to an insect trap 10, and more particularly to an insect trap having a back housing 12, a light-transmittable cover 16 or fender, and a light source including an ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diode strip 22. The present invention is particularly concerned with a configuration in which the light is directed to improve trapping efficiency.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an insect trap, and more particularly to an insect trap comprising a back housing, a light-transmittable cover or facer, and a light source comprising a light-emitting diode, hereafter LED, that emits ultraviolet (UV) light. The present invention extends the teachings of the applicant's earlier application WO2019082051. The present invention also relates to an insect trap in the form of a wall-mounted sconce designed to project light upwards and / or downwards, as opposed to outwardly perpendicular to the plane of the wall (or back housing of the insect trap) on which the insect trap is mounted. [Background technology]

[0002] Various types of insect traps are well known. A particularly common type of trap, especially for flying insects, comprises an insect attracting means, such as a fluorescent UV light source, and an insect catching or killing means, such as a sticky or adhesive board or paper, or an electronic fly-killing device, contained in a housing. Flying insects are attracted to the trap, enter the housing through an opening, are captured by the trapping means or strike the killing device, and are killed. To maintain the efficiency of the trapping (or killing), the sticky board or paper needs to be replaced periodically and / or the trap cleaned. The sticky board or paper also needs to be inspected and kept recorded. Electric lights also need to be cleaned, as insects are "fused" to the bulb, and in any case, electric lights have a limited life span.

[0003] A typical basic trap of this type having an adhesive board is disclosed in EP1457111 and is provided with a translucent cover having an innermost surface which serves to maximise UV emission from the trap, thus improving trapping efficiency.

[0004] Related family member EP0947134 claims further aspects of such traps adapted to ensure that the insect trapping means is not readily visible through the cover to a significant extent. To this end, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the cover is provided with louver openings angled to further prevent the glue board from being visible when viewed substantially perpendicular to the plane of the rear housing. A more preferred arrangement is one in which the louver openings are paired about a central point to provide a downward and upward bend, respectively. Such an arrangement helps to draw air at the bottom of the trap.

[0005] However, conventional UV fluorescent tubes are expensive to operate and must be replaced periodically. KR20160028318 disclosed a light capture device that uses LED bulbs operating in the wavelength range of 460-550 nm.

[0006] KR20170017186 discloses a light capture device that uses LED tubes operating in the wavelength range of 350-370 nm. WO2016310905 discloses a dual function LED unit. The LED unit emits light at two wavelengths: 380-410 (UV) and 700-1500 (IR). The former provides a sterilization function and the latter a drying function, and the unit is used to kill fruit flies.

[0007] WO2009131340 discloses an LED alternative to fluorescent light bulbs. KR2017000393 discloses a UV LED bulb that contains two LEDs in one tube to address polarity issues when installed in conventional devices.

[0008] What is clear from this technology is that it is built with conventional technology and assumes that the LEDs must be mounted in an equivalent manner to conventional UV fluorescent bulbs. In WO2019082051, the applicant instead recognized that alternative configurations of the trap design are possible, which can result in a simplified trap design and greater trapping efficiency. This application builds on the teachings and evidence presented therein and provides additional evidence resulting in alternative trap configurations to maximize trapping efficiency, reduce capital costs, and increase operational efficiency. The above also extends the teachings beyond insect traps that primarily project insect-attracting light outwardly into a room through a cover, which can include apertures that allow light out and insects in substantially, but not limited to, in a direction primarily perpendicular to its back wall, which typically facilitates mounting the insect trap to a wall, as previously described. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a trap which is simpler or less expensive from a manufacturing and / or maintenance standpoint. It is an alternative and further object to improve capture efficiency and to do so for capturers having different configurations, including wall sconces where light is primarily projected upward (towards the ceiling), although in some designs light may also be projected downward (towards the floor) as opposed to outward. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a trap for capturing or killing insects, comprising: a. A rear housing; b. A means for capturing or killing insects; c. an insect attractant light source; di) a cover having one or more openings through which insects can enter the trap and through which insect-attracting light is dispersed; or ii) a cover having one or more separate openings through which insects can enter the trap and Equipped with The light source comprises a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light, the LED being mounted in front of and pointed toward the insect trapping or killing means, but not oriented to direct light from the periphery of the trap directly inwardly toward the center of the trap or onto the insect trapping or killing means.

[0011] To illustrate, WO2019082051 teaches that light is prevented from being directed immediately outwards through the cover, and teaches the benefits of either directing the light inwards (Test 1), spreading it inwards at 45 degrees (Test 2) or directing it across the trap (180 degrees, along plane XX) (Test 3) in terms of improved capture.

[0012] Note that in either case the angle is based on the orientation of the LED (i.e., the orientation of the LED's main axis), and a standard LED will transmit light over approximately 120-130 degrees, i.e., 60-65 degrees on either side of the main axis. However, the light intensity drops off by approximately 50% at the periphery.

[0013] As is evident from Figures 10a and 10b, traditional fluorescent tubes, such as those used in insect traps, transmit light in all directions over 360 degrees, and the intensity is the same in all directions. In contrast, as illustrated in Figures 10a and 10b, light from a UV LED source transmits light in a directional manner, with an intensity that varies with direction. Thus, a UV LED source transmits light along its major axis at 100% intensity, but the intensity decreases as the light travels to either side of the axis, so that at its periphery (approximately + / - 65 degrees to the major axis), the intensity is less than 50%. This fundamental difference in characteristics affects insect behavior in a way that helps explain why traps using UV LED strips need to be constructed differently to insect traps using fluorescent technology. It is believed that pointing the UV LEDs outwards towards the cover will effectively "deflect" incoming flying insects, and therefore the technique of using reflection and refraction to scatter the light and thereby reduce its intensity will result in superior capture.

[0014] Advantageously, LEDs are mounted between the rear housing and either i) a cover, which has one or more openings to allow insects to enter the trap, so that the emitted light is not transmitted directly outwardly through the cover and / or the opening or openings in the cover, or ii) one or more independent openings to allow insects and insects to enter the trap, so that the emitted light is not transmitted directly outwardly through the independent opening or openings, but is instead reflected either by reflection within the trap or by reflection from a rear wall on which the trap is mounted.

[0015] Preferably, the light is directed into the trap, more preferably the light is directed substantially towards the rear housing or insect trapping or killing means (i.e. perpendicular to the plane of the insect trapping or killing means (as in test 1)). Alternatively (as in test 2) the light may be directed across the plane (180 degrees parallel) with illumination spread by substantially 60 to 65 degrees on either side of the axis of the main beam. Thus, the beam of light may be a narrow beam - which simply transmits light beyond the vertical axis or main axis of the beam by up to 15 degrees on either side of the vertical axis or main axis of the beam, a medium beam - which transmits light beyond the vertical axis or main axis of the beam by up to 30 degrees on either side of the vertical axis or main axis of the beam, a wide beam - which transmits light beyond the vertical axis or main axis of the beam by up to 60 degrees on either side of the vertical axis or main axis of the beam, and in some circumstances an ultra-wide beam which transmits light beyond the vertical axis or main axis of the beam by up to 75 degrees on either side of the vertical axis or main axis of the beam. As a result, the angle of incidence on the adhesive board may be anywhere between 15 and 75 degrees on either side of the vertical axis. The beam may be configured to transmit light only to one side of the vertical axis or the main axis of the beam (e.g., toward or away from the center point of the insect trapping or killing means). The spread of the beam (narrow, medium, wide or extra wide) may be controlled by the use of guides or baffles, shielding members, such as, for example, U-shaped or other shapes (C-shaped, L-shaped, V-shaped, etc.), that transmit the light in the desired direction.

[0016] Preferably, the guide or baffle prevents light from being emitted directly outward (out of the cover). The light may also be guided by other means, for example by lenses or diffractors, in particular those that are opaque and function to scatter the light, such as the cover of EP1457111.

[0017] Preferably the trap has means for reducing power to improve trapping performance and / or reduce running costs. In another independent aspect of performance, applicants address the change in performance of the LED over time by controlling the input power over time.

[0018] Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the capturer includes an intelligent driver (iDriver) that will identify the UV LED serial to determine the start date. This is accomplished, for example, using an RFID reader. The iDriver will store this data in its own local memory. The iDriver will come preloaded with UV LED attenuation characteristics. At a given time, the iDriver will make corrections to the UV LED input power to emit a consistent UV LED output power.

[0019] By including a light sensor with the capturer, it is also possible for the device to adjust power depending on the ambient light. Preferably, the LEDs are provided in the form of one or more strips with up to 60 LEDs per strip. The LEDs may comprise, for example, up to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, or 60 LEDs depending on the size of the trap and the desired brightness.

[0020] LED strips may operate at less than full power: Power (W) = Voltage (V) x Current (i). Typically, LEDs are operated at 24V or 12V and a dimmable LED driver is used to step down the voltage.

[0021] A typical LED used had the following specifications: Table 1

[0022] [Table 1]

[0023] However, one skilled in the art will recognize that UV-emitting LEDs having different specifications may be used. Directing light in the manner disclosed herein results in increased capture efficiency (compared to directing light outward from the trap, such as the orientation of conventional fluorescent UV tubes).

[0024] To facilitate this, an array of LED lights may be mounted on a rear support of the cover or facer in front of the rear housing and / or insect trapping or killing means, or may be mounted directly onto the inward facing surface of the cover or facer.

[0025] To maximize light emission, a reflector may be placed after the LED, or the LED may be mounted on a support, such as a molded metal or metal part, that acts as a reflector.

[0026] Preferably, the LEDs are placed facing the insect trapping or killing means, this may be directly (vertically) or at an angle. While exact positioning will vary from trap design to trap, the LEDs are most preferably mounted towards the periphery of the insect capturing or killing means of the trap.

[0027] There are many basic trap designs, including but not limited to: a) those with a back housing to which an adhesive board is mounted with either a translucent cover (e.g. Genus Cobra manufactured by Brandenburg) or a metal cover (e.g. Genus Fli manufactured by Brandenburg) having an aperture through which insects enter the trap and light exits. These may traditionally have one or more, e.g. 2, 3 or 4, fluorescent tubes installed between the adhesive board and the cover, with the light projected directly outwards through the cover aperture (and the cover if the cover is translucent), often using a reflector behind the fluorescent tube; b) a rear housing, with an adhesive board installed across and between the rear housing and the front fascia, with the capture surface of the adhesive board facing the opening, and with a front-facing fascia having one or more separate openings directed toward the ceiling and / or floor (e.g., Genus Galaxy or Genus Illume Alpha, manufactured by Brandenburg); Includes.

[0028] Again, the number and configuration of LED strips will depend on the capture device design. If a single strip of the array is used, the strip may be towards the top or bottom of the insect capturing or killing means of the trap.

[0029] Alternatively, the strips may run along the sides of the trap. If two strips are used, the strips may be placed towards the top and bottom (but not in the middle) or on both sides (but not in the middle) of the insect capturing or killing means of the trap.

[0030] In a third configuration, the strip may be provided substantially near the periphery (but not at the centre) of the insect capturing or killing means of the trap. In other words, the LEDs are oriented to direct light toward the periphery of the insect trapping or killing means of the trap, most preferably the adhesive board.

[0031] Preferably, the LED holding member is shaped so that light is prevented from being directed directly outward through the cover. The use of LEDs minimizes the need for ballasts, which are virtually absent in the trap of the present invention (compared to traps that use fluorescent bulbs).

[0032] Preferably, the trap comprises an LED having a peak wavelength of 360 to 370 nm. Preferably, the trap is a SMART Internet-enabled trap. According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of attracting flying insects to an insect trap comprising the step of diffusing light emitted by a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light directly onto the peripheral area of ​​a means for trapping or killing insects, but is not oriented to direct light from the periphery of the trap immediately inwardly towards the centre of the trap or onto the means for trapping or killing insects.

[0033] Of course, the trap of the present invention may include all other features of conventional traps, such as those disclosed in WO2009 / 133372 and EP2651214.

[0034] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for maximizing the effective life of an insect trap having a UV LED light source as an attractant that includes a driver that adjusts power input based on time.

[0035] Preferably, the capture device includes a driver that can identify the UV LED serial number to determine the start date. This may be accomplished, for example, using an RFID reader. The iDriver can store this data in its own local memory and become preloaded with the UV LED attenuation characteristics. At a given time, the iDriver will make corrections to the UV LED input power to emit a consistent UV LED output power.

[0036] Various aspects of the invention disclosed in WO2019082051 will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4, and Examples 1, Tests 1 to 4, with additional aspects claimed herein being more particularly described with reference to Examples 2, Tests 1 to 13, Examples 3 to 5, and Figures 6 to 9. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a typical prior art insect trap showing the cover removed and the frame slightly open with a conventional UV fluorescent tube. [Figure 2a] 1 shows the trap of the invention with the cover attached. [Diagram 3] 1 is a trap of the invention with the cover removed to show the rear housing, insect trapping means, reflector, and LED-containing fixture. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a comparative diagram illustrating an illuminated insect trap using conventional fluorescent tubes (top) versus an insect trap using LEDs (bottom). [Diagram 5] 1 is a graph illustrating how a driver can correct performance over time. [Figure 6a] A third angle projection view of the Ginas cobra trap. [Figure 6b] A cross section of the Ginas cobra trap. [Figure 7a] A third angle projection view of the Genus Filter capture device. [Figure 7b] A cross section of the Genius Free capture device. [Figure 8a] This is a third angle projection view of the Genius Galaxy capture device. [Figure 8b] A cross-section of the Genius Galaxy capture device. [Figure 9a] This is a third angle projection view of the Genital Illum Trap. [Figure 9b] A cross section of the Genus Illum capture device. [Figure 10a] FIG. 1 illustrates the difference in radiation patterns between a fluorescent light source and an LED light source. [Figure 10b] FIG. 1 illustrates the difference in radiation patterns between a fluorescent light source and an LED light source. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0038] Figure 1 illustrates a typical prior art insect trap (10). The insect trap comprises a number of basic components: a rear housing (12), a light source in the form of a fluorescent, UV light emitting tube (22), an insect trapping means (100) and a cover (16). The figure shows the fluorescent tube held in a frame that is hinged to the rear housing. The plane of the rear housing and the insect trapping means extend in the direction PP.

[0039] In contrast, and as illustrated in Figures 2, 3, 4 (below) and 6, the preferred insect trap (10) of the invention includes a cover (16) that hides the LED from view. All that is visible through the cover opening (18) (when the light is off) is a minor portion of the adhesive board (100), a minor portion of the mounting portion (14) that supports the LED, and a minor portion of the reflector (44).

[0040] 6a and 6b more specifically, it can be seen that the trap has three LED strips (22) mounted between the rear housing (12) (and adhesive board (100)) and the front cover (16). The strips are mounted on a retaining member (24) and are mounted across the trap towards the top, bottom and middle with the light directed at a 45 degree angle from the normal of the plane PP or an angle between the axes XX (outward / inward) and YY (upward / downward).

[0041] 3, the mounting portion (14) protrudes from the rear housing (12), is mounted to the rear housing (12), and includes two pairs of opposing LED holding members (24a, 24b) inserted from the periphery (20) of the rear housing. Such a configuration has been shown by experiment, Example 1 below, to significantly improve insect capture.

[0042] This or, for example, a substantially circular configuration orients the LEDs in a facing relationship to direct light toward the center (26) of the trap. A further important feature to maximize trapping efficiency was to shield the LEDs, so that the light is directed in a plane (PP) parallel to the rear housing (12). This may be accomplished, for example, by housing the LEDs in a substantially U-shaped or other shaped LED holding member (24) (LEDs not visible in the figures), which prevents the light from being directed either directly outward through the cover (16) or directly inward onto the insect trapping means (100).

[0043] The cover (16) is of a translucent material and has an innermost surface which is shaped or roughened to maximise UV light transmission as described in EP 1457111. The opening (18) which allows insects to enter the trap is shaped to prevent the light (22) from being visible when viewed substantially perpendicular to the normal plane (PP) of the rear housing (12). The general principles of maintaining a pleasing appearance of the trap are described in EP 0947134.

[0044] Data supporting the above claimed invention are set forth in Example 1 below, with additional data supporting additional and alternative embodiments disclosed with reference to Examples 2 through 7 and Figures 6 through 9. EXAMPLES

[0045] method 1. Test procedure - 1-hour fly-trapping test (single trap test) 1.1. House flies were reared using standard rearing procedures. Mixed-sex flies aged 3 to 4 days were used in the experiments. 1.2. 200x flies were used for each replicate. 1.3. Before starting the test, the fly test chamber was cleared of all residual flies from the previous test. The walls and floors were wiped down using a mild detergent water solution. 1.4. The test chamber has dimensions of 6 metres (length) x 3 metres (width) x 3 metres (height). 1.5. The test chamber contains eight 40 watt fluorescent tubes mounted evenly spaced in the ceiling. 1.6. Each tube is 4m long and bluish-white in colour. 1.7. The ambient UVA and visible light intensities of the fluorescent lamps in the room were measured immediately prior to releasing the flies into the room. Immediately after the start of each test, ambient UVA and visible light were measured at a fixed point from the center of the room. Readings were taken with the sensor plane parallel to the ceiling at a distance of 1.5 meters from the ground. 1.9. Temperature was maintained at 25±3°C, and temperature and relative humidity were recorded immediately prior to the release of all flies into the room. 1.10. The traps were placed in the centre of one of the long walls, 1.8 m from the floor to the underside of the trap. 1.11. The trap UV output was measured with a calibrated UVA test instrument on the central UV surface of the trap at a distance of 1 meter from the surface. 1.12. Two hundred (200x) mixed-sex flies were transferred into the room at the end furthest from the door, in the farthest corner from the traps, and allowed to acclimate to the new room environment for 30 min with the traps switched OFF. 1.13. After 30 min of acclimation, the traps were switched ON, environmental parameters were recorded, and the traps were allowed to operate. Flies were then released and the number of flies caught was recorded every 30 min for a total of 60 min.

[0046] result Results from consecutive trials are set forth in the table below. Test 1 40 LED Array (Compare outward and inward facing LEDs) Table 2

[0047] [Table 2]

[0048] Surprisingly, this testing suggested that, unlike fluorescent tubes, it was not desirable to transmit light directly outward for most efficient capture. Test 2 28 LED array in directional test and test of the effect of translucent cover.

[0049] Table 3

[0050] [Table 3]

[0051] This test demonstrated that the translucent cover was still significantly more effective at attracting insects than the old fluorescent tubes, and that "lighting the inside" of the trap was meaningful.

[0052] Test 3 30 LED array - with the added effect of directional control using guides or baffles and the further effect of a translucent cover to restrict the direction of light transmission.

[0053] Table 4

[0054] [Table 4]

[0055] Results showed that the use of guides to control the direction of release maximized collection, and that the translucency of the cover was meaningful. Test 4 A comparative study between a 30 LED array-UV fluorescent capture device and an otherwise identically designed UV LED capture device.

[0056] Table 5- Cobra trap (3x fluorescent tubes)

[0057] [Table 5]

[0058] Table 6 - Cobra Trap (30 LED (UV) Array)

[0059] [Table 6]

[0060] The results show a statistically significant improvement in capture efficiency (20% improvement) over 60 minutes. Table 7 (Statistical analysis of the data in Table 5)

[0061] [Table 7]

[0062] A statistically significant p-value of 0.05 confirms the greater capture efficiency of the LED capturer than the conventional fluorescent tube capturer after 60 minutes of operation. Finally, FIG. 4 illustrates in detail the different appearance of the LED (bottom) compared to the two trap fluorescent (top). EXAMPLES

[0063] In a raw set of experiments designed to identify key parameters influencing "capture", the experiments were grouped and compared against a "standard" - a "capture" obtained using a Cobra insect trap using 3x15W fluorescent tubes mounted across the back board using approximately 45W. The Cobra trap is illustrated in Figure 1 and the results are shown in comparative reference Table 5 reproduced in different formats as Table 8.

[0064] Table 8

[0065] [Table 8]

[0066] Series 1 In S1 Test 1 and Test 2, the effect of the power reduction (compared to a nominal 45W, nearly 54W in practice - Table 8) was investigated using a BUT with three strips of LEDs pointed towards the adhesive board, as opposed to outwards, mimicking a traditional setup with three strips of LEDs positioned to emit light substantially uniformly over the collection area of ​​the adhesive board (like fluorescent tubes), based on the results of Example 1 of International Application WO2019082051.

[0067] S1 Test 1 result Table 9

[0068] [Table 9]

[0069] S1 Test 2 result Table 10

[0070] [Table 10]

[0071] conclusion By comparing S1, Test 1 and Test 2 with Table 8 above, it can be seen that the capture (at 60 minutes) increases with power from 77% to 83%, but that lower powers are still more efficient (71% capture) (compared to the at least 45W used by fluorescent tubes).

[0072] Series 2 In Series 2, applicants explored the effect of adding a diffuser (lens) in front of the LED to direct / scatter the light in a manner similar to how light penetrates a translucent cover (outwards) in a conventional trap, as the cover increases collection volume. The results of S2, Test 3 and Test 4 were compared to S1, Test 1 and Test 2.

[0073] S2 Test 3 result Table 11

[0074] [Table 11]

[0075] S2 Test 4 result Table 12

[0076] [Table 12]

[0077] conclusion The results are not conclusive, but the trends suggest that the diffuser improves / accelerates collection rates.

[0078] Series 3 In a further series of experiments, the effect of reducing the intensity of each of the three LED groupings was probed at a power input of 11.8 W (almost a quarter of that of the conventional fluorescent capture device).

[0079] S3 Test 5 result Table 13

[0080] [Table 13]

[0081] S3 Test 6 result Table 14

[0082] [Table 14]

[0083] S3 Test 7 result Table 15

[0084] [Table 15]

[0085] conclusion It can be seen from the three results that the capture volumes from each of Tests 5 through 7, which were performed substantially identically, show that it is possible to use a setting that draws much less power than the conventional setting to achieve better results than the equivalent fluorescent setting.

[0086] Series 4 To this point, Applicant has considered a configuration in which the LEDs are placed across the trap in a manner substantially equivalent to a setup using a light source BUT having a fluorescent UV, LED UV light source that is substantially unidirectional towards (and not away from) the adhesive board.

[0087] Applicants next considered whether reducing the number of UV strips would affect capture efficiency. The results provided the unexpected finding that two examples out of the six basic configurations tested produced capture efficiencies of over 90%. These are described below in S4 Tests 8 through 13.

[0088] S4 Test 8 result Table 16

[0089] [Table 16]

[0090] S4 Test 9 result Table 17

[0091] [Table 17]

[0092] S4 Test 10 result Table 18

[0093] [Table 18]

[0094] S4 Test 11 result Table 19

[0095] [Table 19]

[0096] S4 Test 12 result Table 20

[0097] [Table 20]

[0098] S4 Test 13 result Table 21

[0099] [Table 21]

[0100] conclusion As can be seen from the S4 tests above, configurations in which the light was not directed towards the centre of the insect trapping or killing device but towards the periphery, top and bottom (S4 Test 9 and Test 12) produced extremely outstanding results at 60 minutes, regardless of power.

[0101] An inference from this, which may be extrapolated, is that it appears optimal to direct illumination toward one or more peripheral edges (at or inset from the periphery) of the BUT rather than directly toward the center of the trap (the central 20-40%).

[0102] Whether this be one end, top / bottom, side / side, or substantially the entire perimeter must already be determined, but it is clear that the UV light should not be directed or placed towards the center of the trap, and by this we mean at least 20% to 25%, 30%, 35%, 40% of the center by area. EXAMPLES

[0103] Example 3 demonstrates how to intelligently increase the power input over time to account for degradation of the LED's performance over time. This is illustrated with reference to Figure 5, which is a graph showing power (Y-axis) and time (X-axis). The middle line represents the "ideal" and the lower curve shows the degradation of performance over time. Using a simple algorithm, it is possible to periodically adjust the power input (upper curve) to compensate for the loss of performance (lower curve).

[0104] Therefore, in another aspect of the present invention, a capture device and method are provided that adjusts power to ensure consistent UV LED output. The novel method provides an increase in power through the driver that corresponds to the decrease in UV LED output power over time. This ensures that the UV LED always functions at optimal brightness during its operational life. In this regard, UV LEDs typically have a decrease in power output over time during normal operation. This reduces the effectiveness of the UV LED as an attractant for flying insects. Current practice advocates replacement of UV LED sources at a predetermined time, e.g., two years.

[0105] A compensating power driver that automatically increases power when the UV LED emits a lower output provides longer life and optimal efficiency. This ensures that the UV LED output power remains linear and consistent throughout its specified life.

[0106] The intelligent driver (iDriver) identifies the UV LED serial to determine the start date. This is accomplished, for example, using an RFID reader. The iDriver will store this data in its own local memory. The iDriver will come preloaded with UV LED attenuation characteristics. At a given time, the iDriver will make corrections to the UV LED input power to emit a consistent UV LED output power.

[0107] [Examples 4 to 7] Examples 4 and 7 illustrate variations with respect to different trap configurations. EXAMPLES

[0108] Gina Cobra Figures 6a and 6b illustrate the Genus Cobra in more detail. The Genus Cobra comprises a back housing (12), a cover (16) and an adhesive board (100). Its three main openings, from top to bottom (18a, 18b and 18c), are located approximately halfway between the top, middle and bottom thirds of the trap. The cover (16) is a translucent cover designed to scatter light. Three LED strips (22) are located between the cover (16) and the back housing (12) which supports the adhesive board (100). The three light strips, (22a, 22b, 22c), are attached to a holding member (24) and oriented such that their main axes (25) are between 30 and 60 degrees, optimally at a 45 degree angle, reading from the XX axis to the YY axis (Test 2). EXAMPLES

[0109] Genius Free Figures 7a and 7b illustrate the Genus Free capture device. In contrast to the Genus Cobra illustrated in Figures 6a and 6b and mentioned in Example 2 and Example 4, which includes three LED strips of light (22) and a translucent cover (16), the Genus Free includes a back housing (12) that supports an adhesive board (100) and a metal cover (16) with four main openings (18), two front cover surfaces (18a) and two side cover surfaces (18b) that are placed parallel to the adhesive board and the back housing, and many small hole apertures (18c) formed in groups between them. The Genus Free includes a mounting part (14) and an LED holding member (24) that supports two LED strips, each of which includes a plurality of LEDs (22). The LEDs are mounted in alignment with the two main openings (18a) in the cover (16), and each lens (23) has a main lens axis (25) at an angle between plus or minus 60 and 75 degrees, optimally 67.5 degrees, reading from the XX axis to the YY axis.

[0110] This angle was selected based on the following test data. Study 14 / Table 21

[0111] [Table 22]

[0112] Study 15 / Table 22

[0113] [Table 23]

[0114] Study 16 / Table 23

[0115] [Table 24]

[0116] conclusion From these results, the best results are obtained with the primary lens axis having a larger angle of incidence measured from the adhesive board towards the primary opening (18a) such that the preferred angle is between plus or minus 60 and 75 degrees reading from the XX axis to the YY axis. EXAMPLES

[0117] 8a and 8b illustrate the Genus Galaxy trap. In contrast to the previous traps, the Genus Galaxy is a wall sconce trap, differing fundamentally in that its front-facing fascia (16) is closed (no outwardly facing openings) and the light is instead directed upwards towards the ceiling (and optionally downwards towards the floor) through one or more openings (18). The Genus Galaxy trap comprises a back housing (12) for mounting the trap to a wall, but in contrast to the previously described traps, an adhesive board (100) is installed along a horizontal axis XX (and not a vertical axis YY) between the fascia (16) and the back housing (12). The Genus Galaxy trap comprises a mounting part (14) and an LED holding member (24) that supports two LED strips (22), each of which includes a number of LEDs. The LED strips are mounted in spaced apart relationship between the fascia (16) and the rear housing (12) below the opening (18). There are wall-side strips (22a) and fascia-side strips (22b), and each lens (23) has a primary lens axis (25) at an angle between plus or minus 15 degrees and 30 degrees, optimally 22.5 degrees, reading from the XX axis to the YY axis.

[0118] In this capture, the LEDs project light at 65 degrees on either side of the main axis (25). However, the LEDs are configured so that the main axis hits the back wall at the border with the opening (18) so that the light bounces off the back wall and back housing across the opening and is not directed directly towards the ceiling. The light also bounces off the back housing (due to the spread) and, in the case of light emitted from the facia strip (22b), the light also bounces off the wall strip (22a) so that the adhesive board (100) is additionally illuminated.

[0119] This angle was selected based on the following test data. Study 17 / Table 24

[0120] [Table 25]

[0121] conclusion From these results, the best results are obtained with the primary lens axis (25) having a larger angle of incidence measured from the adhesive board towards the primary opening (18a) such that the preferred angle is between plus or minus 15 degrees and 30 degrees reading from the XX axis to the YY axis. EXAMPLES

[0122] Genius Illum Alpha Similar to Example 6, this is a wall sconce capture with a back housing (12), fascia (16) and adhesive board (100). The opening (18) is at the top of the capture through which the light from the two light strips (22a) and (22b) is emitted. The main difference between Example 7 and Example 6 is that the unit is smaller, resulting in the fascia strip (22b) being placed closer to the wall strip (22a). The result is to ensure that the major axis hits the back wall at the interface with the opening (18), so that the light bounces off the back wall and back housing across the opening and is not immediately directed towards the ceiling, where the light also bounces off the back housing (due to the spread). The two strips are positioned at different angles, with the wall side strip (22a) having an angle between plus or minus 30 degrees and 60 degrees, optimally 45 degrees, read from the XX axis to the YY axis, and the facia side strip (22b) having an angle between plus or minus 30 degrees and 60 degrees, optimally 22.5 degrees, read from the XX axis to the YY axis.

[0123] The following clauses provide further support for the claims. 1. A trap (10) for catching or killing insects, comprising: a. A rear housing (12); b. a means for capturing or killing insects (100); c. an insect attractant light source (22) having a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light; d. a cover (16) having one or more openings (18) for allowing insects to enter said trap and through which insect-attracting light is dispersed; Equipped with the light source (22) is directed towards the insect trapping or killing means (100) and the LED is mounted in front of the insect trapping or killing means and directed towards but away from the centre point of the insect trapping or killing means; Capture device. 2. A trap as described in clause 1, wherein said light source (22) is prevented from being directed directly outwardly through said cover (16). 3. A trap as described in clause 1 or 2, wherein the LED is directed substantially towards the insect trapping or killing means, i.e. perpendicular to the plane of the insect trapping or killing means, or at an angle to the insect trapping or killing means, which angle may be up to 60 degrees. 4. A trap as described in clause 3, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is a narrow beam - only transmitting light beyond said vertical plane up to a maximum of 15 degrees on either side of the vertical plane. 5. A trap as described in clause 3, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is an intermediate beam - transmitting light beyond said vertical plane up to 30 degrees on either side of said vertical plane. 6. A trap as described in clause 3, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is a wide beam - transmitting light beyond said vertical plane up to 60 degrees on either side of said vertical plane. 7. A trap as described in clauses 3 to 6, wherein the beam is configured to transmit light only to one side of a vertical plane (e.g., towards or away from a centre point of the insect trapping or killing means). 8. A trap as described in any of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the LED is mounted on a shielding member that transmits light in a desired direction. 9. A trap according to any of clauses 1 to 8, further comprising a lens or a diffractor. 10. A trap according to clause 8 or 9, wherein the diffractor is opaque. 11. A trap as described in any of clauses 1 to 10 comprising a pair of LED strips mounted towards the top and bottom (but not in the middle) or on either side (but not in the middle) of the insect capturing or killing means of the trap. 12. A trap as described in clauses 1 to 10 comprising a single strip of LEDs mounted towards the periphery of the trap. 13. A trap according to any of clauses 1 to 12, further comprising means for reducing power to improve trapping performance and / or reduce running costs. 14. A trap according to any of clauses 1 to 13, wherein an array of LEDs (22) is mounted on the inner surface of said cover (16). 15. A trap according to any of clauses 1 to 14 which is a SMART Internet enabled trap. 16. A method of attracting flying insects to an insect trap, comprising diffusing light emitted by an ultraviolet (UV) light emitting light emitting diode (LED) directly onto a peripheral area of ​​the insect trapping or killing means, away from a central point of said insect trapping or killing means, and indirectly through a cover to attract insects to said insect trapping or killing means. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the light source (22) is prevented from being directed directly outwardly through the cover (16). (Item 1) A trap (10) for catching or killing insects, comprising: a. A rear housing (12); b. a means for capturing or killing insects (100); c. an insect attractant light source (22) having a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light; di) a cover having one or more openings through which insects can enter the trap and through which insect-attracting light is dispersed; or ii) a fly and one or more separate openings through which insects can enter the trap. Equipped with the light source comprises a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light, the LED being mounted in front of the insect trapping or killing means and pointed towards the insect trapping or killing means, but not oriented to direct light from the periphery of the trap directly inwardly towards the center of the trap or onto the insect trapping or killing means; Capture device. (Item 2) 2. The trap of claim 1, wherein the LEDs are not positioned such that they direct light substantially perpendicular to a normal plane (PP) of the rear housing. (Item 3) 3. The trap of claim 1 or 2, wherein the light source (22) is prevented from pointing directly outwardly through the cover (16). (Item 4) 4. A capture device as described in any of items 1 to 3, wherein the LEDs are directed substantially towards the rear housing (12) and each lens (22) has a main lens axis (25) at an angle of between a maximum of plus or minus 75 degrees read from a horizontal XX axis to a vertical YY axis. (Item 5) 5. The trap of claim 4, wherein the beam of light transmitted from the LED is a narrow beam with an angle of between a maximum of plus or minus 15 degrees read from the Y horizontal XX axis to the vertical YY axis. (Item 6) 5. The trap of claim 4, wherein the beam of light transmitted from the LED is an intermediate beam at an angle of up to plus or minus 30 degrees read from the horizontal XX axis to the vertical YY axis. (Item 7) 5. The trap of claim 4, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is a wide beam - an angle of up to plus or minus 45 degrees reading from said horizontal XX axis to said vertical YY axis. (Item 8) 5. The trap of claim 4, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is an ultra-wide beam - an angle of up to plus or minus 75 degrees reading from said horizontal XX axis to said vertical YY axis. (Item 9) 9. The trap of any of items 4 to 8, wherein the beam is configured to transmit light only to one side of the YY axis. (Item 10) 9. The trap of any of items 4 to 8, wherein the beam is configured to transmit light to both sides of the horizontal XX axis. (Item 11) 11. The trap of any of items 1 to 10, wherein the LEDs are mounted on a shielding member that transmits light in a desired direction. (Item 12) 12. The trap of any of the preceding items, further comprising a lens or a diffractor. (Item 13) Item 13. The trap of item 12, wherein the diffractor is opaque. (Item 14) 14. A trap according to any of the preceding items, comprising pairs of LED strips mounted towards the top and bottom, rather than in the middle, or on either side, rather than in the middle, of the insect capturing or killing means of the trap. (Item 15) 15. A trap according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a single strip of LEDs mounted towards the periphery of the trap. (Item 16) Item 1, a wall sconce comprising a fascia (16) and one or more separate openings (18) through which insects can enter the trap and through which insect-attracting light is distributed, wherein an adhesive board is installed along the horizontal axis XX (and not the vertical axis YY) between the fascia (16) and the rear housing (12). (Item 17) Item 17. A trap as described in item 16, comprising a wall-side LED strip (22a) and a cover-side LED strip (22b), each lens (22) having a main lens axis (25) at an angle between plus or minus 15 degrees and 60 degrees read from the horizontal XX-axis to the vertical YY-axis. (Item 18) Item 18. The capture device of item 17, wherein at least one LED strip has a primary lens axis (25) at an angle between plus or minus 22.5 degrees or 45 degrees read from the horizontal XX axis to the vertical YY axis. (Item 19) 19. A trap according to any of the preceding items, further comprising means for reducing power to improve trapping performance and / or reduce running costs. (Item 20) 20. The trap according to any of the preceding claims, wherein an array of LEDs (22) is mounted on an inner surface of the cover (16). (Item 21) 21. The trap according to any of items 1 to 20, which is a SMART Internet-enabled trap. (Item 22) A method for attracting flying insects to an insect trap, comprising the step of diffusing light emitted by a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light directly onto the peripheral area of ​​an insect trapping or killing means, but is not oriented to direct light from the periphery of the trap immediately inward toward the center of the trap or onto the insect trapping or killing means. (Item 23) 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the light source (22) is prevented from being pointed directly outwardly through the cover (16). (Item 24) A method for maximizing the effective life of an insect trap that includes a UV LED light source as an attractant that includes a driver that adjusts the power input based on time.

Claims

1. A trap (10) for capturing or killing insects, comprising: a. A rear housing (12); b. an insect trapping or killing means (100); c. an insect attractant light source (22) comprising a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light through a lens (23); d. i) a cover (16) having one or more openings (18) for allowing insects to enter said trap, through which insect-attracting light is dispersed; or ii) a fascia (16) and one or more separate openings (18) that allow insects to enter the trap and through which insect-attracting light is dispersed; Equipped with The light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light is i) is not oriented to direct light from the periphery directly inwardly toward the center of the trap or onto the insect trapping means; ii) not arranged to direct light substantially perpendicular to the normal plane (P-P) of the rear housing; iii) is not positioned to direct light directly outwardly through said cover (16); iv) mounted in front of and facing said insect catching or killing means or said rear housing (12), each lens (23) having a main lens axis (25) at an angle of up to plus or minus 75 degrees read from a horizontal X-X axis to a vertical Y-Y axis; The trap (10) further comprises a driver configured to adjust power input to the light emitting diodes (LEDs) based on time to maximize the effective life of the insect attracting light source (22).

2. 2. The trap of claim 1, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is a narrow beam with an angle of between a maximum of plus or minus 15 degrees read from said Y horizontal XX axis to said vertical YY axis.

3. 2. The trap of claim 1, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is an intermediate beam at an angle of up to plus or minus 30 degrees read from said horizontal XX axis to said vertical YY axis.

4. 2. The trap of claim 1, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is a wide beam - an angle of up to plus or minus 45 degrees reading from said horizontal XX axis to said vertical YY axis.

5. 2. The trap of claim 1, wherein the beam of light transmitted from said LED is an ultra-wide beam - an angle of up to plus or minus 75 degrees reading from said horizontal XX axis to said vertical YY axis.

6. A trap according to any preceding claim, wherein the beam is configured to transmit light only to one side of the YY axis.

7. A trap according to any preceding claim, wherein the beam is configured to transmit light to both sides of the horizontal XX axis.

8. 8. The trap of claim 1, wherein the LEDs are mounted on a shielding member that transmits light in a desired direction.

9. The trap of claim 1 further comprising a diffractor.

10. 10. The trap of claim 9, wherein the diffractor is opaque.

11. 14. A trap as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising pairs of LED strips mounted towards the top and bottom, rather than in the centre, or on either side, rather than in the centre, of the insect capturing or killing means of the trap.

12. 12. A trap as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising a single strip of LEDs located towards the periphery of the trap.

13. 2. The trap of claim 1, which is a wall sconce comprising a fascia (16) and one or more separate openings (18) through which insects can enter the trap and through which insect-attracting light is distributed, and an adhesive board is installed along the horizontal axis X-X (and not along the vertical axis Y-Y) between the fascia (16) and the rear housing (12).

14. 14. The trap of claim 13, comprising a wall side LED strip (22a) and a cover side LED strip (22b), each lens (23) having a main lens axis (25) at an angle between plus or minus 15 degrees and 60 degrees read from the horizontal X-X axis to the vertical Y-Y axis.

15. 15. The trap of claim 14, wherein at least one LED strip has a primary lens axis (25) at an angle between plus or minus 22.5 degrees or 45 degrees read from the horizontal XX axis to the vertical YY axis.

16. 19. A trap as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising means for reducing power to improve trapping performance and / or reduce running costs.

17. 20. The trap of any of claims 1 to 19, wherein an array of LEDs (22) is mounted on an inner surface of the cover (16).

18. 21. A trap according to any preceding claim, which is a SMART internet enabled trap.

19. A method for attracting flying insects to an insect trap (10) having a back housing (12), an insect trapping means (100), a cover or facer (16), and one or more openings (18) for allowing insects to enter the trap, comprising: Diffusing light emitted by a light emitting diode (LED) (22) that emits ultraviolet (UV) light through a lens (23); The step of diffusing the light comprises: i) does not point immediately inward from the periphery to the center of the trap or onto the insect trapping means; ii) not arranged to direct light substantially perpendicular to the normal plane (P-P) of the rear housing; iii) is not positioned to direct light directly outwardly through said cover (16); iv) directed towards said insect catching means or said insect killing means or said rear housing (12), each lens (23) having a main lens axis (25) at an angle between a maximum of plus or minus 75 degrees read from a horizontal X-X axis to a vertical Y-Y axis; A method in which a driver adjusts the power input to the light emitting diodes (LEDs) based on time to maximize the effective life of the insect attracting light source (22).

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