Removable circuit board and insect attractant for insect attractant

Abstract

The removable substrate for the insect attracting device includes a main body having a front surface and a back surface. The main body includes a grip portion having a slot and a lower portion disposed below the grip portion. The lower portion includes a holding opening, a first side portion, and a second side portion, and a gap extends between the first side portion and the second side portion. An adhesive is applied to the front surface and the back surface, and the adhesive is disposed between the grip portion and the lower portion and is surrounded by a boundary without adhesive on the front surface and the back surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to plug-in insect traps, and more specifically to a plug-in insect trap device comprising a light guide and a trapping substrate.

Background Art

[0002] Insect traps are generally used to monitor or reduce the population of insects or other arthropods by capturing individual insects and immobilizing or killing them. Many passive or non-electric insect traps use bait, visual lures, chemical attractants, and / or pheromones to attract insects and are placed to limit or reduce unintended interactions with the trap by other types of insects or animals. Active or electric insect traps can utilize visual lures such as light, bright colors, shapes, etc. to attract insects, and can further use chemical attractants and / or pheromones.

[0003] Insect traps come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and structures and can be developed for specific species of insects or targeted species of insects. For example, light traps that can be used with or without ultraviolet light attract specific species of insects. Light sources include fluorescent lamps, mercury lamps, black lights, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), etc. The design varies depending on the behavior of the targeted insects, and light traps are typically used to attract flying and terrestrial insects. Adhesive traps are sticky traps, which can be simple flat panels or enclosed structures. Adhesive traps often use a bait agent and capture insects with an adhesive substance. However, for various reasons, there may be users who do not wish to use insect traps that use chemicals or bait.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Numerous active and electric insect traps are also known in this field. Electric shock devices, sometimes called "zappers," attract insects to an electrostatically charged insecticidal grid via a light source. The light attracts the insects, and the charged grid knocks them from the air onto a tray or the ground. Some electric shock insect traps have a removable collection chamber. However, such traps can be dangerous to small animals, pets, or children if placed within reach of them.

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to have the advantages of both active and passive systems without the drawback of having to use chemical and / or electric shock insecticidal grids. This disclosure overcomes certain drawbacks by combining a substrate commonly used in passive systems with a light source commonly used in active systems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment, a removable substrate for an insect attractant device includes a body having a front and a back. The body includes a grip portion having slots and a lower portion located below the grip portion. The lower portion includes a retaining opening, a first side portion, and a second side portion, with a gap extending between the first side portion and the second side portion. Adhesive is applied to the front and back surfaces, and the adhesive is located between the grip portion and the lower portion, surrounded by adhesive-free boundaries on the front and back surfaces.

[0007] In another embodiment, the insect attractant device includes a base having a top, right, and left side. The device also includes a plug extending from the rear of the base and at least one LED positioned within the base. Furthermore, the device includes a lens extending from the base and having a lower end, the lower end of which is in direct optical contact with at least one LED. The base between the lens and the plug is provided with slots including openings on the top, left, and right sides. The slots are defined by parallel opposing surfaces having a width between them and are configured to receive a planar substrate.

[0008] In another embodiment, the insect attractant includes a housing defining a front and a rear, the housing including an electronic assembly having an electrical plug, a first resistor, and at least one LED. Furthermore, the housing includes a lens and a retaining tab. Further, a substrate is positioned between the lens and the electrical plug, the substrate including first and second sides configured to straddle the housing and a retaining opening configured to latchably engage with the retaining tab. The substrate is substantially planar. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front and right-side isometric view of a first embodiment of an insect trap including a refill. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a frontal, left isometric view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1, in its activated state. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a front elevation view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a left elevation view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a rear elevation view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a plan view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the dorsal isometric view and partially exploded view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 8]Figure 8 is an isometric view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1, with the refill removed, showing the rear and top views. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a left isometric view of the insect trap from Figure 8, with the plug rotated approximately 90 degrees. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view of the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a front elevation view of a first embodiment of a refill for use with the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of a refill for use with the insect trap shown in Figure 1. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an isometric view of the refill from Figure 11 with the release layer partially removed. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a partial dorsal isometric view of the insect trap in Figure 1, a detailed view showing the interaction between the tabs and slots along the refill. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is an isometric view of the refill from Figure 12 with the release layer partially removed. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a partial dorsal isometric view of the insect trap in Figure 1, with the refill from Figure 12 inserted into the refill slot of the housing. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view taken through line 17-17 in Figure 6. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view taken through line 18-18 in Figure 6. [Figure 19A] Figure 19A is a heat map showing heat dissipation within the housing of an insect trap similar to the insect trap in Figure 1, when the resistor is located along its bottom wall. [Figure 19B] Figure 19B is a heatmap showing heat dissipation from another housing similar to the insect trap housing in Figure 1, when the resistor is located along its upper wall. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a bar graph showing different capture rates based on the color of the adhesive portion of the refill. [Figure 21]FIG. 21 is a partial side, top isometric view of the insect trap of FIG. 1 with the refill removed, further showing the retention features provided in the housing slots. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a top view of the insect trap of FIG. 1 with the refill removed, further showing the retention features provided in the housing slots. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a front elevation view of a third embodiment of a refill for use with the insect trap of FIG. 1. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is an isometric view of the refill of FIG. 23 with the release layer partially removed. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a rear isometric view of the insect trap of FIG. 1 with a detailed view showing the interaction between the tabs in the housing slots and the openings in the refill.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present disclosure provides a solution for capturing flying insects without using pesticides. In one particular embodiment, light is directed through a front lens to attract flying insects to an insect trap device. As disclosed below, in some embodiments, blue light and UV light are emitted, and combinations of these have been found to be an effective way to attract certain insects. Once attracted to the device, a double-sided adhesive refill captures the insects. The refill is disposable and can have an adhesive portion that is specially colored to attract certain insects in combination with UV light. The refill may include, among other advantages, a peelable feature, one or more grips for the user to hold the refill, and / or a "lock-in" function. The insect trap device described herein has been found to function well to attract and capture insects during the day when insects are generally difficult to attract. Through testing, it was determined that the daytime efficacy may be due to one or more of the front lens characteristics, the color and / or pattern of the refill material, the use of a double-sided adhesive, and / or the inclusion of UV LEDs.

[0011] Furthermore, the effectiveness of the insect trap device disclosed herein may be improved compared to other devices because it may motivate users to use it in unconventional locations for insect traps, such as visible locations within the home. Users may feel embarrassed to have insects in their homes and do not want this fact to attract attention. The device described herein has a clear and attractive form, including the compact shape of the housing that contains the electronic components, so that users can freely display the insect trap in their homes in a similar manner to a night light or a Glade® fragrance diffuser. Currently available light-based insect trap devices are not intended to be left outside in a similar manner, as such devices have the appearance of pest control products, and many of such products use electric shock as a form of monitoring or eliminating insects.

[0012] While the apparatus disclosed herein can be embodied in many different forms, the embodiments described herein are intended to be merely illustrative of the principles described herein, and this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the illustrated embodiments. Several specific embodiments are described herein, with the understanding that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles described herein and this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the illustrated embodiments. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” mean plus or minus 5% of the number preceding each term.

[0013] Next, referring to Figures 1 to 7, an insect trap device 100 is shown that provides a homey atmosphere while continuously capturing insects. The device 100 includes a base 102, a lens 104 onto which UV light is emitted, and a removable substrate or refill 106. A rotatable plug 108 extends outward from the back of the base 102. The device 100 is shown in an assembled, inactive state in Figure 1, but in Figure 2, the device 100 is shown in an activated state, plugged into a wall socket 110 along a wall 112 and switched "on". As will be described in more detail below, the light generated by the light source in the base 102 is directed through the lens 104 towards the wall 112 surrounding the socket 110 adjacent to the device 100.

[0014] Referring to Figures 1-7, the base 102 includes a smooth shape having a first face or front surface 120, a second face or right surface 122, a third face or left surface 124, a fourth face or top surface 126, a fifth face or bottom surface 128, and a sixth face or back surface 130. The front surface 120 is slightly curved, and the top, bottom, left, and right surfaces 122, 124, 126, and 128 are connected by rounded edges, defining a relatively flat or planar central surface. The inner portion of the back surface 130 is interrupted by a plug 108. For the purposes of this disclosure, a portion of the plug 108 forms the back surface 130.

[0015] Referring particularly to Figures 1-4, the base 102 defines a shape similar to an elongated, rounded square. However, the base 102 may have cross-sections of various shapes. Therefore, the base 102 may define overall dimensions including substantially the same length, width, and height. While the specific dimensions of the base 102 may be similar, the ends of the base 102 may have various shapes or characteristics. In the embodiments of Figures 1-7, the base 102 includes a first or rear edge 132 defining a sharp back surface 130, a second or inner edge 134 partially defining rounded top, bottom, left, and right surfaces 122, 124, 126, 128, and a third or front edge 136 defining a chamfered or chamfered front surface 120. The embodiments in Figures 1-7 include three different types of edges, but the base 102 may be defined by one type of edge, two types of edges, or three or more types of edges, such as chamfered edges, angular edges, rounded edges, sharp edges, etc. In the embodiments of Figures 1-7, the base 102 defines a generally rounded cubic shape consisting of 12 edges, four of which are first edges 132, four of which are second edges 134, and four of which are third edges 136. The number and types of edges may differ in alternative embodiments.

[0016] Referring particularly to Figure 4, the lens 104 is shown spaced apart from the refill 106. A first distance D1 separates the lens 104 and the refill 106. The first distance D1 may be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 50 mm, or between approximately 10 mm and approximately 40 mm, or between approximately 15 mm and approximately 30 mm, or approximately 20 mm. The lens 104 and / or the refill 106 may include various shapes, and the distance D1 is intended to be measured from the maximum straight-line distance between the inner surface of the lens 104 and the front surface 140 of the refill 106. In another embodiment, the distance is measured from the upper ends of the lens 104 and the refill 106, between the inner and outer surfaces, respectively.

[0017] The back surface 130 of the base 102 and the refill 106 are also spaced apart such that a second distance D2 separates the back surface 130 and the refill 106. The second distance D2 is measured from the maximum straight-line distance between the back surface 142 of the refill 106 and an axis A extending perpendicularly from the outermost point along the back surface 130 of the base 102. In another embodiment, the second distance D2 is measured between the back surface 142 of the refill 106 and the wall 112 into which the device 100 is inserted. The second distance D2 may be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 50 mm, or between approximately 10 mm and approximately 40 mm, or between approximately 15 mm and approximately 30 mm, or approximately 20 mm.

[0018] Referring again to Figures 1 to 7, the refill 106 includes an intentional focal point that helps guide the consumer in product interaction. The refill 106 includes a first face or front 140, a second face or back 142, and an adhesive coating 144 along the front 140 and back 142. In some embodiments, the adhesive coatings 144 are identical to or mirror images of each other. In some embodiments, the adhesive coatings 144 have different configurations. Specifically referring to Figures 11 and 12 showing the first refill 106A and the second refill 106B, the refill 106 includes a base or lower 146, an inner portion 148, and an upper 150. The lower 146, inner portion 148, and upper 150 collectively comprise the body of the refill 106. The lower 146, inner portion 148, and upper 150 each comprise one-third (1 / 3) of the total height H of the refill 106.

[0019] A grip 152 is positioned along the upper part 150 of the refill 106. Parts of the front 140 and back 142 define the grip 152. The grip 152 may define a semicircular shape or other shapes. In some embodiments, the grip 152 includes a wider portion along the adhesive-free upper part 150. An inner portion 148 is positioned between or in the middle of the lower part 146 and upper part 150 of the refill 106. The lower part 146 of refill 106A includes a refill retaining mechanism or tab 154. The second refill 106B does not include a retaining mechanism 154. The refill retaining mechanism 154 can be removably engaged with the base 102 so that insects attracted to the light emitted from multiple LEDs are trapped in the adhesive-coated portion 144. If desired, the used refill 106 can be removed and discarded and replaced with a new refill 106.

[0020] The refill 106 comprises plastic, cardboard, or other disposable materials. In one embodiment, the refill 106 may be formed from crepe paper, printer paper, A4 paper, and / or other cellulosic materials. Additional examples of materials intended for the refill 106 include plastics, polymers, fabrics, nonwoven substrates such as PET nonwoven substrates, and / or combinations thereof. Furthermore, the refill 106 may include combinations of manufactured materials, natural materials, and / or recycled or regenerated materials. As described above, the tab 154 may be received in the refill slot 156 of the base 102 to secure the refill 106 before active use of the device 100 is initiated.

[0021] In some embodiments, refill 106 may be a first refill, and refill 106 may further include a second refill. In some embodiments, the first refill may be made of or incorporate one material, and the second refill may be made of or incorporate a different material such that the first and second refills are made of partially or entirely different materials. In some embodiments, refill 106 may include one and / or two substrate layers. In other embodiments, refill 106 may include three, four, five, six, or more substrate layers. In some embodiments, a second refill (see Figure 19A) and / or a third refill (not shown) may be mountable in the housing via additional refill slots (not shown). In some embodiments, the first and second refills may be the same.

[0022] Further criteria that may be relevant when selecting the material for refill 106 include optimizing the thickness or diameter of refill 106. For example, refill 106 could be approximately 0.15 mm, or approximately 0.2 mm, or approximately 0.3 mm, or approximately 0.4 mm, or approximately 0.5 mm, or approximately 0.6 mm, or approximately 0.7 mm, or approximately 0.8 mm, or approximately 0.9 mm, or approximately 1.0 mm, or approximately 1.1 mm, or approximately 1.2 mm, or approximately 1.3 mm, or approximately 1.4 mm, or approximately 1.5 mm, or approximately 1.6 mm, or approximately 1.7 mm, or approximately 1.8 mm, or approximately 1.9 mm, or approximately 2.0 mm, or approximately 3.0 mm, or approximately 5.0 mm. The stiffness or rigidity of refill 106 can be a further criterion to consider when selecting the material forming refill 106. Adequate rigidity can enhance the appearance and stability of the refill 106 by reducing the amount of curling of the refill 106 over time when impregnated with the composition and / or exposed to high humidity conditions. Similarly, in one embodiment, it is preferable to use a refill material that has sufficient rigidity so that the refill 106 maintains its shape or shape substantially when assembled in the device 100 and / or during use.

[0023] Referring to Figures 3, 4, 6, and 7, the lens 104 includes a first or front lens surface 160, a second or rear lens surface 162, a third or side surface 164, and a fourth or chamfered surface 166. As will be described later, the shape of the lens 104, in particular the surfaces 160, 162, 164, and 166 of the lens 104, produces an illumination effect that attracts insects toward the device 100 for capture. The front lens surface 160 of the lens 104 is generally arched or concave. The chamfered surface 166 surrounds the front surface 160 and extends from there. The chamfered surface 166 is joined to the side surface 164. The side surface 164 extends from the back surface 162 to the chamfered surface 166. Both the front surface 160 and the back surface 162 are generally continuous surfaces. The front surface 160 has a semi-gloss texture, and the back surface 162 has a matte texture. Referring particularly to Figures 6 and 7, the corners 168 of the lens 104 are generally rounded, but the corners 168 may also be sharp or include additional features. In some embodiments, the lens 104 includes five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten corners.

[0024] The front 160 and back 162 of the lens 104 may be given specific visual features, such as a matte finish or a textured finish, to help obscure the refill 106 from the user's field of view in order to prevent the user from seeing insects positioned along the refill 106. The lens 104 can have a wide variety of finishes along its front lens surface 160 and / or rear lens surface 162. In some embodiments, the front lens surface 160 may have an MT11000 finish, and the rear lens surface 162 may have a matte texture of MT11030. The front lens surface 160 may have a medium semi-gloss texture, and the rear lens surface 162 may have a matte texture. Additional features that affect light dispersion may also be added to or placed within the lens 104.

[0025] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the refill slot 156 is shown in more detail, which is positioned along the base 102. The refill slot 156 includes a chamfered slot edge 1 that defines an opening 172 into which the refill 106 can be inserted. The refill slot 156 defines openings on the top surface 126, the right surface 122, and the left surface 124, thereby allowing the refill 106 to be inserted into the slot through the opening on the top surface 126, and further, allowing at least a portion of the bottom 146 to extend laterally outward through the openings on the right and left surfaces 122, 124 of the slot 156. The chamfered slot edge 170 that defines the opening 172 guides the position of the refill 106 into the slot 156, which helps to ultimately result in a locked or fixed configuration. In some embodiments, the slit (not shown) of the refill 106 can be aligned with a rib (not shown) of the base 102 to assist in aligning the refill 106 for insertion. The slit can be located in the center of the lower part 146 of the refill 106. In some embodiments, a stopper (not shown) positioned along the lower part 146 of the refill 106 can engage with a feature or retaining mechanism in the base 102 to provide tactile feedback or an audible click and help secure the refill 106 to the base 102.

[0026] Referring further to Figures 8 and 9, the base 102 may include one or more legs 174 to stand the base 102 upright as needed. The one or more stabilizing legs 174 provide stability to the insect trap device 100 when the device 100 is stationary on a flat surface. The insect trap device 100 may include more or fewer stabilizing legs 174 depending on the intended use of the insect trap device 100. Additional stabilizing features may be provided along the base 102, which can be used to hold the base in a particular configuration, such as upright. In some embodiments, additional features may extend from other surfaces of the base 102, which can help stabilize or hold the base 102 in a desired configuration.

[0027] Continuing to refer to Figures 8 and 9, the plug 108 is shown in more detail. The plug 108 is shown in a horizontal configuration (Figure 8) and a vertical configuration (Figure 9). Since the plug 108 is rotatable, the electrical prongs 176 extending from the plug 108 are rotatable from the vertical configuration to the horizontal configuration. The plug 108 may be removable in some embodiments. The plug 108 is electrically coupled to electrical components located within the base 102. The plug 108 may be a 360° rotating plug that allows full rotation of the insect trap device 100 when the plug 108 is plugged into the wall 112. The plug 108 includes electrical prongs 176 and may include a wide variety of electrical prong configurations based on outlet configurations in different countries or jurisdictions. Referring to Figure 10, the plug 108 is electrically coupled to at least one resistor 180. A printed circuit board (PCB) 182 is also coupled to the resistor 180 and one or both of the rotatable plug 108. Multiple light sources, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 184, are arranged along the PCB 182. Although multiple LEDs 184 are mentioned in this disclosure, alternative light sources, such as incandescent bulbs or other types of lighting sources known to those skilled in the art, may be used. Furthermore, different types of light sources that produce light with a wide variety of wavelengths may be used. For example, while specific colors are described herein, many different colors of light emitting light with various wavelengths are conceivable.

[0028] Referring to Figure 10, the lens 104 is shown disassembled from the base 102. The lens 104 further includes a cutout portion 190 defining a fifth or inner surface 192 of the lens 104. The inner surface 192 may have angled or rounded portions to assist the lens 104 in functioning as a waveguide, as will be described later. The inner corners 194 of the inner surface 192 are generally rounded. The inner surface 192 includes an upper inner surface 196 that directly optically communicates with a plurality of LEDs 184. The upper inner surface 196 may be rounded or recessed to assist the lens 104 in functioning as a waveguide. The plurality of LEDs 184 are arranged along the PCB 182, which is sized and shaped to fit along the platform 198 in the base 102 (see Figures 20 and 21). The lens 104 may have an alternative configuration that allows it to disperse light against the wall into which the device 100 is inserted, or it may have an alternative configuration that allows it to disperse light in another way, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0029] Referring again to Figure 10, the base 102 includes a lower housing 200 and an upper housing 202, which is separate from the upper housing 202. The lower housing 200 defines the front surface 120 of the base 102 and generally forms a well 204, while the upper housing 202 defines a refill slot 156 for receiving a refill 106. The upper housing 202 and the lower housing 200 can be fastened together by snap fitting, interlock fitting, magnets, adhesive, ultrasonic welding, screws, rivets, or other fastening methods known to those skilled in the art. The upper housing 202 includes a plurality of posts 206 extending downward from the upper housing 202 to engage with a plurality of post receiving members 208 positioned along the lower housing 200. The post receiving members 208 are cylindrical and include a circular bore 210 capable of receiving the posts 206 extending downward from the upper housing 202. A recessed ledge 212 along the upper housing 202 is configured to be received by a complementary ledge 214 positioned along the periphery of the lower housing 200. The upper housing 202 and the lower housing 200 are configured to be permanently or semi-permanently attached to each other once all internal components are assembled within the base 102.

[0030] Referring again to Figure 10, the upper housing 202 includes one or more retaining mechanisms, such as hasps, clasps, clips, rails, slots, catches, pins, fasteners, and / or combinations thereof, extending from the lower side of the upper housing. The one or more retaining mechanisms may be formed to hold one or both of the refill 106 and the lens 104, as will be described later. Multiple LEDs 184 are arranged along a PCB 182 located adjacent to the lower housing 200. The LEDs 184 are directed toward the waveguide inlet to the lens 104, as will be described in more detail later. The resistor 180 may be one of multiple resistors and is located within the base 102. The lens 104, which functions as a waveguide, is located between and adjacent to the upper housing 202 and the lower housing 200.

[0031] As described above, the lens 104 can function as an optical waveguide. When mounted near the front surface of the base 102, the lens 104 surrounds the slot 156 of the lower housing 200 and extends through a portion of it. With the lens 104 mounted in this manner, the hook-shaped tab 216 on the lens 104 overlaps the LED 184, capturing light for transmission to the outside of the base 102. The hook-shaped tab 216 is partially defined by the upper inner surface 196. As described above, the upper inner surface 196 functions as a waveguide coupling surface. The waveguide is used to mix and / or direct light emitted by one or more light sources, such as one or more LEDs 184. A typical optical waveguide includes three main components: 1) one or more coupling surfaces or elements, 2) one or more distribution elements, and 3) one or more extraction elements. In this embodiment, referring to Figure 10, the coupling component is the upper inner surface 196 of the lens 104. When light enters the upper inner surface 196, the light can be directed to a distribution element, which in this case is the body 220 of the lens 104. The chamfered surface 166, the side surface 164, the front surface 160, and / or the back surface 162 can function as extraction elements. Depending on the desired exit of light from the lens 104, the surface of the lens 104 can be adjusted to produce different refractions, reflections, total internal reflections, and surface or volume scatterings, thereby controlling the distribution of light that enters the lens 104 through the upper inner surface 196 by the LED 184. In a preferred embodiment, the light emitted by the LED 184 is refracted by the chamfered surface 166 toward the wall 112 to which the device 100 is electrically coupled.

[0032] For an extraction element to remove light from a waveguide, the light must first come into contact with features that constitute the element. By shaping the waveguide surface, the flow of light across the extraction features can be controlled, and thus both the position from which the light is emitted and the angular distribution of the emitted light can be influenced. In this disclosure, lens 104 includes a beveled surface 166, which is configured to refract light toward refill 106, and therefore toward wall 112. Through testing, it was found that refracting light toward wall 112 using the beveled lens surface 166 increases and encourages insects to come toward refill 106 because the beveled surface 166 directs the light toward wall 112. In one embodiment, during testing of device 100, it was found that substantially more insects were unable to move along the back surface 142 of refill 106, which may be caused in part by light dispersed along wall 112. In some embodiments, the chamfered surface 166 may be angled between approximately 20 degrees and approximately 70 degrees, or between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, or between approximately 40 degrees and approximately 50 degrees, or between approximately 45 degrees.

[0033] Referring to Figures 10 and 14, a first retaining mechanism 222 (Figure 10) and a second retaining mechanism 224 (Figure 14) are shown, which are respectively positioned along the upper housing 202 of the base 102. The first retaining mechanism 222 holds the lens 104, and the second retaining mechanism 224 holds the refill 106. The first and second retaining mechanisms 222, 224 may be one of the retaining mechanisms listed above. The first retaining mechanism 222 permanently holds the lens 104 in place, and the second retaining mechanism 224 allows the refill 106 to be removed and replaced with another refill. The first and second retaining mechanisms 222, 224 may be integrally molded or formed with the upper housing 202. In some embodiments, one or both of the retaining mechanisms 222, 224 may be provided along the lower housing 200.

[0034] In this embodiment, referring to Figure 10, the first retaining mechanism 222 includes a rail 226 that is received in a slot 228 defined by the hook-shaped tab 216 of the lens 104. In the assembled state, the rail 226 is positioned in the slot 156 (see Figure 20) and holds the lens 104 in place during assembly of the device 100. Referring to Figure 14, the second retaining mechanism 224 includes a refill retaining mechanism 154, i.e., a latch that receives the tab, when the refill 106 is laterally inserted into a predetermined position in the refill slot 156 of the upper housing 202.

[0035] Referring again to Figure 10, the base 102 and the rotatable plug 108 are shown in an exploded configuration, the plug 108 including a power supply, i.e., an electrical prong 176 that can be inserted into the socket 110 in Figure 2. When the lens 104 is operational, the LED 184 can be turned on to illuminate the lens 104 and redirect the light outwards from the base 102. The lens 104 is at least partially transparent, but may have a matte or other finish along one or more surfaces, as described above. In some cases, the lens 104 may be considered translucent. When the LED 184 is turned on, light is emitted outwards from all sides of the lens 104 from the base 102. As will be discussed later, certain lighting configurations may be beneficial or facilitate insect capture. The device 100 may include an external switch (not shown) for selectively turning on the LED 184 and / or the resistor 180.

[0036] Referring next to Figures 11 and 12, the first refill 106A and the second refill 106B are shown in detail. The refill 106 described herein can be substituted with either the first refill 106A or the second refill 106B. In some embodiments, the device 100 may include a second refill slot (not shown) that can accommodate a second refill that is the same as or different from the first refill 106A or the second refill 106B. Certain features are common between the first refill 106A and the second refill 106B, for example, that adhesive is contained within the adhesive coating 144 along both its front side 140 and back side 142. The adhesive coating 144 covers part of the front side 140 and part of the back side 142 of the refill 106. The outer periphery 230 of both the first refill 106A and the second refill 106B does not contain adhesive. Rather, the outer portion of the adhesive coating 144 can help the user grasp the refill 106 for removal. The peelable film or release film 232 (see Figures 13 and 15) first protects the adhesive coating 144 and prevents objects or dust from adhering thereto before the film 232 is used.

[0037] The first and second refills 106A and 106B are rigid and non-bending. Each of the refills 106A and 106B includes a grip area 152 and may include features that allow the refills 106A and 106B to "seat" in an active way, either by clicking or by providing tactile feedback to the user that the refill is in place. The refills 106A and 106B are formed to align with, remain perpendicular and parallel to the lens 104. The release film 232 may include branding or other types of information transmitted along its outer surface 234. Furthermore, a release area 236 may be located at the lower end of the refills 106A and 106B, forcing the user to remove the release film 232 in order to insert one of the refills 106A and 106B into the base 102. Referring to Figure 13, a release window 238 may be included along the release film 232. The window 238 may be provided to allow a projection or tab (such as tab 154) extending from the refill 106 to be positioned therein. The release film 232 may have alternative or additional features added. The refill 106 can be removed from the base 102 and discarded as needed, including after the adhesive coating 144 has been covered with insects. A new refill 106 can be attached to the base 102 for continued use of the device 100. The release film 232 is preferably attached to both the front 140 and the rear 142 of the refill 106. However, it may be attached to only one of the front 140 or the rear 142.

[0038] Referring particularly to Figure 11, the tab 154 is provided along the lower part 146 of the first refill 106A. A second tab (not shown) may be provided along the opposite side such that there are two tabs extending from the refill 106 to allow the refill 106 to be locked in place within the base 102. The second refill 106B shown in Figure 12 does not include a tab 154, and therefore the second refill 106B does not include a retaining mechanism. However, the absence of a retaining mechanism does not prevent the second refill 106 from being held in place within the base 102. Rather, alignment features within the base 102 allow the second refill 106 to be held in place within the refill slot 156 after it has been inserted therein. One particular alignment feature may be a rail (not shown) within the base 102 that can be received into a slit (not shown) within the lower part 146 of the refill 106, which can assist in the alignment of the refill within the refill slot 156. In some embodiments, the slit in the lower part 146 of the refill 106 may be centrally located. In some embodiments, multiple slits are included in the lower part 146 of the refill 106.

[0039] In some embodiments, a fragile portion (not shown) is included along the refill 106 to assist in the removal of the release film 232. For this purpose, the flexible portion may be bonded to the release film 232. The release film 232 may include, for example, one or more of the following materials: a polyester layer, a low-density polyethylene layer, an aluminum foil layer, a polypropylene layer, and a low-density polyethylene layer. Alternatively, the release film 232 may be replaced with other covering mechanisms, such as a rigid cover, as long as it can be peeled or opened without damaging the adhesive. Such alternative covers may simply be removable, or they may be configured to slide to one side, be hinged, or otherwise be openable and even re-closeable.

[0040] Referring to Figures 13-16, in order to install and use the refill 106, the release film 232 is removed to expose the adhesive on the front and back surfaces 140, 142 of the refill 106. Next, the user grasps the grip portion 152 of the refill 106 and inserts the refill 106 into the refill slot 156 of the upper housing 202 of the base 102. Since the refill 106 has the same shape and size as the lens 104, the refill is substantially invisible when viewed from the front. Because an adhesive-free boundary 230 surrounds the adhesive portion 144 and the grip area 152 follows the top 150 of the refill 106, the user can install and remove the refill 106 without touching the adhesive or any trapped insects.

[0041] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the first refill 106A includes an inverted “saddle” shape with opposing sides or legs 240 that straddle the base 102 in order to engage securely with the base 102. The sides 240 may be coated with adhesive. The sides 240 are mirror images of each other, but may be asymmetrical. A tab 154, which can be considered a projection or boss, is positioned along the base or lower part 146 of the refill in an area without adhesive. The lowest end of the legs 240 is positioned below the tab 154. The lower part 146 of the first refill 106A is inserted into the refill slot 156 so that the tab 154 snaps into one of two support parts 242 located inside the upper part 150 of the base 102. The first refill 106A may be configured to be inserted in either direction so that the tab 154 snaps into one of the two support parts 242 along the upper housing 202. Once the first refill 106A is mounted in the refill slot 156, the legs 240 extend along the opposing sides of the base 102. In some embodiments, tabs 154 are positioned along both sides of the first refill 106A, and the support portion 242 in the base 102 receives both tabs 154. The first refill 106A can be disengaged from the base 102 by pressing a button (not shown), sliding the first refill 106A in a direction that results in disengagement, or by applying force to the first refill 106A to release it.

[0042] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the second refill 106B also includes an inverted “saddle” shape with opposing sides or legs 240 for secure engagement with the base 102. The lower part 146 of the second refill 106B is inserted into the refill slot 156 so that the lower part 146 of the second refill 106B is securely positioned within the refill slot 156. The second refill 106B may also be configured to be inserted in either direction. In some embodiments, additional features may be provided along the lower part 146 of the second refill 106B to assist in alignment or retention with the base 102. The second refill 106B can also be disengaged from the base 102 by pressing a button (not shown), by sliding the second refill 106B in a direction that causes disengagement, or by applying force to the second refill 106B to remove it from the refill slot 156.

[0043] Furthermore, variations are desirable depending on the intended functionality of the insect trap device 100 and user preferences. The anticipated variations in refill types may allow the refills to be insect-specific. For example, certain colors, patterns, and / or features may be desirable to be placed along a portion of the refill 106 with adhesive to help attract specific types of insects. In fact, many modifications are expected to be made to provide users with variations during the use of a single insect trap device 100, such as seasonal offerings or offerings of multiple designs, allowing users to select the desired refill 106 for that insect trap device 100 and its intended area of ​​use. While such variations are anticipated, the base 102 may include attractant patches or mini-containers for common insect species and specific insect species.

[0044] Referring next to Figures 17 and 18, a cross-sectional view of the apparatus 100 is shown taken through lines 17-17 and 18-18 of Figure 6. The base 102 is generally hollow and includes a flange 252 extending upward from the lower housing 200. The flange 252 is integral with the lower housing 200 and may be included for structural or manufacturing considerations. In some embodiments, additional flanges may extend from the lower housing 200 and / or the upper housing 202. Referring particularly to Figure 20, a side cross-sectional view is shown. The lens 104 is shown coupled with a first retaining mechanism 222. The circuit board 182 and a plurality of LEDs 184 are shown optically communicating so that when the LEDs 184 are turned on, light shines through the lens 104. The circuit board 182 is shown stationary on a platform 198 formed by the wall 112 of the base 102. The first and second resistors 180 are adjacent to and shown along the upper housing 202. As described above, in some embodiments, only one of the resistors 180 may be included. In other embodiments, three, four, five, six, seven, or eight resistors may be included. The refill 106 is also shown positioned within the refill slot 156.

[0045] Next, referring to Figure 18, a rear cross-sectional view is shown showing the optical coupling portion of the circuit board 182, a plurality of LEDs 184, and the lens 104. A second resistor 180 is also shown, which is positioned along the upper housing 202. The engagement between the lower housing 200 and the upper housing 202 is also shown in more detail. Although no additional functions are depicted within the housing, it is intended that one or more additional electronic components may be included within the housing, such as a receiver, controller, processor, another printed circuit board (PCB), one or more batteries, one or more microphones, one or more capacitors, resistors, transistors, logic circuits, or other electronic components.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first resistor 180 can generate heat that may further attract insects to the insect trap 100. For example, the illustrated resistor can generate heat up to about 40°C, or about 45°C, or about 50°C, or about 55°C. In the illustrated embodiment, the heat dispersed by the first resistor 180 can make the temperature between the substrate and the lens about 10°C higher than the maximum temperature between the substrate and the back surface.

[0047] Referring to Figures 19A and 19B, heat maps of alternative embodiments of the apparatus 100 are shown, illustrating a thermal pattern that varies depending on the position of one or more resistors 180. One or more resistors, such as resistor 180, may be positioned along various locations within the base 102 to heat the base 102 near the refill 106 as an additional attractant to insects. Referring particularly to Figure 19A, the resistor 180 is included along the lower housing 200 of the base 102. When coupled to the lower housing 200, the heat map emitted by the resistor 180 is shown most prominently along the lower housing 200. Thinner portions of the heat map indicate warmer areas that do not extend along much of the refill 106 or lens 104. In the embodiment of Figure 19A, a second refill 106 is shown, which further illustrates that the heat does not extend as far along the second refill 106.

[0048] The heatmaps provided in Figures 19A and 19B illustrate a simulation showing how the optimization of the target temperature window is achieved based on the arrangement of one or more heat sources. Through testing and analysis, it was determined that adjusting the position and intensity of the heat sources alters the natural convection pattern, thereby allowing the heated air to transfer heat to the front 140 and back 142 of the refill 106. In an alternative embodiment, heat distribution can be altered by adjusting the shape of the base 102, for example by adding vents or adjusting the curvature along the surfaces 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, and 130, which affects the position of the natural convection plume of warm air rising from the base 120 of the device 100 to heat the refill surfaces 140 and 142.

[0049] Referring next to Figure 19B, the resistor 180 is provided along the upper housing 202 of the base 102. The refill 106 in Figure 19B includes a lighter, i.e., warmer portion that extends substantially more along the refill 106 than the refill 106 in Figure 19A. Furthermore, Figure 19B shows an alternative embodiment of the design which includes vents 250 along the upper housing 202 and the lower housing 200, allowing heat to escape from the base 102 through the vents 250 due to the chimney effect. The heatmap signature of Figure 19B was found to attract more insects to the device and to allow optimized airflow via thermal convection and conduction for attracting insects. Furthermore, during testing, it was found that by positioning the resistor 180 along the rear of the refill 106 toward the rotatable plug 108, the vicinity adjacent to the wall 112 could be heated, attracting more insects to this location, i.e., the rear 142 of the refill 106. By including resistors 180 along various parts of the base 102, various effects can be enabled, or the device can be optimized based on the type of insect attracted to the device 100.

[0050] The configuration shown in Figure 19B achieves a heat plume that encompasses a larger volume of space surrounding the refill 106 than the configuration shown in Figure 19A. Another simulation (not shown) revealed that including two resistors 180 along the side of the base 102 achieves a heat plume that encompasses an even larger volume of space surrounding the refill 106 than the configuration shown in Figure 19B. It was determined that the key to optimizing the region within the target temperature range is to control the natural convection plume emitted from the base 102. For example, further optimization of 19B could include adjusting the area of ​​each vent so that the convection plume heats the refill 102 evenly.

[0051] Referring to the graph in Figure 20, the results of numerous efficacy tests on mosquito capture were conducted. The tests were controlled using mosquitoes and conducted using test equipment similar to apparatus 100. Each test differed in the characteristics of the refills used during the test, such as color and pattern design. Otherwise, the adhesive material used was the same in the refills tested. In each test, the test equipment was plugged into an outlet in the chamber and 30 mosquitoes were released into the chamber. Two hours after insect introduction, the number of insects captured in the test sample was counted. Furthermore, the number of insects captured in the test sample was counted six hours and 24 hours after insect introduction.

[0052] As is evident from the test results, the Blue Granite and Fly Box color / pattern designs showed higher effectiveness than the other materials. The Blue Luma refill was colored with Pantone 310, the Blue Granite refill contained dots colored with Pantone 2142, 291, 298, and black, the Fly Box refill was patterned with Pantone 2030 and black, the Black refill was colored with black, and the White refill was colored with white. As shown in the graph in Figure 20, the Blue Granite colored refill achieved higher catch rates at 2 hours and 6 hours, and the Fly Box pattern achieved a higher catch rate at 24 hours. The remaining colors (Blue Luma, Black, and White) achieved lower catch rates than the Blue Granite and Fly Box refills, but in many cases the difference in effectiveness was not statistically significant. The blue granite refill showed the highest capture rates at 2 hours (16%) and 6 hours (20%), while the flybox pattern showed the highest capture rate at 24 hours (35%). Thus, the test results revealed that the blue granite and flybox adhesive boards are preferred colors / patterns to be used with the refills 106 of the device 100 to increase mosquito capture.

[0053] Now that the individual components and assembly of the insect trap device 100 have been described, their relationships and the operation of the insect trap device 100 will be described. Prior to use, the insect trap device 100 is preferably provided to the user in a sealed container (not shown), such as a bag, box, or other package. When the user wishes to use the insect trap device 100, the user opens the container and takes the insect trap device 100 out therefrom. In some embodiments, the user is required to attach the lens 104 to the base 102, but it is also possible that the lens 104 is pre-assembled to the base 102.

[0054] Next, the user removes the packaging from around the refill 106. Then, if a peel-off starting portion is provided, the user grasps the peel-off starting portion and removes the peel-off cover 232 from the refill 106. The refill 106 is now ready for use and ready to be inserted into the insect trap device 100. The user can slide the refill 106 into the refill slot 156 of the base 102. The insect trap device 100 can now be characterized as being in an operational state. In this operational state, the user can plug the rotatable plug 108 into the wall socket 110. A switch (not shown) may be provided along the base 102, which allows the user to control the power supplied to the device 100. In some embodiments, there is no switch, and the device 100 has a single operational state, "on," which is enabled when the device is plugged in. Once the power to the device 100 is turned on, the LED 184 lights up, and the light refracts through the lens 104, shining along the wall 112 adjacent to the wall socket 110.

[0055] Once the device 100 is powered on, the insect trap device 100 operates on its own and can attract and capture insects along the refill 106 towards the device 100. In a preferred embodiment, the refill 106 maintains sufficient adhesion to trap insects for about 6 months, or about 180 days. In some embodiments, the refill 106 has sufficient adhesion to trap insects for between about 40 days and about 280 days, or between about 80 days and about 240 days, or between about 120 days and about 200 days. In some embodiments, the refill 106 can be used for between about 3 days and about 60 days, or between about 7 days and about 30 days, or between about 10 days and about 20 days, or for about 14 days.

[0056] Referring next to Figures 21 and 22, in some embodiments the base may include additional retaining features to hold the refill inserted into the base's slot and prevent vertical or lateral displacement of the refill. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 21 and 22, the refill slot 156 of the base 102 may include a protruding rib 262 extending in an elongated direction along parallel opposing surfaces 263A, 263B defining the refill slot 156, the protruding rib 262 may protrude into the refill slot 156. When the refill 106 is inserted into the slot 156, the protruding rib 262 may engage with the lower surface 146 of the refill 106. This engagement may bias the opposite side of the refill 106 against each of the surfaces 263A, 263B facing a particular protruding rib 262, thereby fixing the refill 106 in place. The engagement between the protruding rib 262 and the refill 106 also tends to produce a friction fit that prevents displacement of the refill 106 relative to the slot 156. In the illustrated embodiment, both parallel opposing surfaces 263A, 263B of the refill slot 156 include two protruding ribs 262. In other embodiments, each surface 263A, 263B of the refill slot 156 may include only a single protruding rib 262 or may include two or more protruding ribs 262. In some embodiments, the protruding rib 262 may be provided on only a single surface 263A, 263B of the refill slot 156. In other embodiments, the protruding rib may be located on a raised surface (not shown) of the opposing surfaces 263A, 263B that itself extends into the refill slot 156.

[0057] In one embodiment, the protruding rib 262 extends into the refill slot 126 to the midpoint of the refill slot 156. As shown in Figures 21 and 22, the X, Y, and Z directions can be defined relative to the insect trap device 100. The Z direction is the height direction and is perpendicular to the top surface 126. The X direction is the lateral direction and is perpendicular to the right surface 122. The Y axis is perpendicular to surfaces 263A and 263B. According to some embodiments, the distance between surfaces 263A and 263B is approximately 1.75 mm, or approximately 2 mm, or approximately 2.15 mm, or approximately 2.5 mm, and the rib protrudes into the slot 156 by approximately 0.5 mm, or approximately 0.75 mm, or approximately 1 mm, or approximately 1.15 mm. The protruding rib 262 can extend in the Z direction along each of the surfaces 263A and 263B, and can further extend in the Y direction into the refill slot 156. Each of the protruding ribs 262 can be spaced apart from other protruding ribs 262 in the X direction along their respective faces 263A, 263B. In some embodiments, one protruding rib 262 on one face 263A, 263B can extend further into the slot 156 in the Y direction than the protruding rib 262 on the other face 263A, 263B. In other embodiments, the distance a protruding rib 262 extends into the slot 156 in the Y direction (e.g., the depth of the protruding rib 262) varies along the Z direction of the rib 262, with the first end of the rib 262 extending further into the refill slot 156 in the Y direction. In some embodiments, one protruding rib 262 on one face 263A, 263B can be spaced equally along the width of the refill slot 156 so as to be defined between the right face 122 and the left face 124. For example, the first of the protruding ribs 262 can be spaced in the X direction from the left surface 122 by a distance of approximately one-third of the total distance between the left surface 124 and the right surface 122, and correspondingly, the second of the protruding ribs 262 can be spaced in the X direction from the right surface 122 by a distance of approximately one-third of the distance between the right surface 122 and the left surface 124. In some embodiments, the protruding ribs 262 of surface 263A can be offset laterally from the protruding ribs of surface 263B.

[0058] Referring further to Figures 20 and 21, the protruding ribs 262 within the refill slot 156 can be offset laterally from each other in the X direction along surfaces 263A and 263B. For example, as shown in Figure 22, the protruding rib on the first surface 263A of the refill slot can be positioned closer to the lateral center of the refill slot than the protruding rib on the opposite surface 263B. This arrangement, once inserted, causes a deflection in the lower part 146 of the refill 106, thereby increasing the force of the ribs 262 on the refill 106 and thus increasing the friction against removal, thereby further securing the refill 106.

[0059] An additional retaining function can also be provided within the base's refill slot to hold the refill in place. As illustrated in Figures 21 and 22, a retaining tab 260 can be provided within the refill slot 156. The illustrated retaining tab 260 extends into the refill slot 156 from surface 263B. In other embodiments, the retaining tab 260 can instead protrude from the opposite surface of the refill slot, for example, from a surface position close to the back surface 130 of the base 102. In some embodiments, the retaining tab 260 is located in the center within the refill slot 156. When the refill 106 is inserted into the refill slot 156, the retaining tab 260 engages with the bottom of the refill, biasing the refill against the surface 263 of the slot 156 opposite to the retaining tab 260, thereby securing the refill 106 in place. As will be further described below, in some embodiments, the retaining tab 260 can alternatively act as a latch that engages with a corresponding feature of the refill 106.

[0060] In some embodiments, the retaining tab 260 can be positioned laterally centered within the slot 156 between the right face 122 and the left face 124. The retaining tab may have a width in the lateral or X direction that is at least about 8% of the total width of the slot between the right face 122 and the left face 124, or about 10%, about 12%, about 14%, or about 16% of the total width of the slot. The retaining tab 260 may extend into the refill slot 156 by only about 0.6 mm, or about 0.65 mm, or about 0.7 mm, or about 0.75 mm, or about 0.8 mm, or about 0.85 mm, or about 0.9 mm. The retaining tab 260 may have an inclined upper surface (not shown) that can act as a guide for the corresponding feature on the refill 106 during insertion, and an inclined lower surface (not shown) that can act as a guide for the corresponding feature on the refill 106 during removal. The total depth of the retaining tab 260, measured in the Y direction (for example, in a direction perpendicular to its width), can be approximately 3 mm, 3.1 mm, 3.2 mm, 3.3 mm, or 3.4 mm. The distance between the top surface 126 and the retaining tab 260 in the Z direction may be approximately 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, or 15 mm.

[0061] In some embodiments, the refill for the insect trap device has a corresponding retaining feature of the base. It includes features for engaging with the refill. In this regard, Figure 23 illustrates a third refill 106C, which is generally similar to refill 106B, with similar elements numbered similarly. For example, like refill 106B, refill 106C also includes a first face or front 140, a second face or back 142, and an adhesive coating 144 along the front 140 and back 142. Refill 106C further includes a base or lower 146, an inner portion 148, and an upper 150. The lower 146, inner portion 148, and upper 150 collectively constitute the body of refill 106C. The lower 146, inner portion 148, and upper 150 each constitute one-third (1 / 3) of the overall height H of refill 106C. In some embodiments, a retaining opening 268 may be provided in the lower 146 of refill 106C. As shown in the figure, the retaining opening 268 may be located between the sides 240 and below the adhesive surface 144. The retaining opening 268 may also be centrally located in the lateral direction of the refill 106C, for example, in the direction perpendicular to the height H. In some embodiments, multiple retaining openings may be provided at the bottom of the refill. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining opening 268 is generally rectangular and is at least partially defined by a retaining edge 270 positioned along the bottom side of the retaining opening 268.

[0062] Referring again to Figure 23, an elongated slot 266 can be provided in the upper part 150 of the refill 106C. In some embodiments, the slot 266 can be located in the center of the upper part 150 in the lateral direction of the refill 206. In other embodiments, the slot 266 can have an elongated length in the lateral direction of the refill 106C. In different embodiments, as shown in Figure 23, the slot 266 can have a curved profile. In yet another embodiment, the slot can have other profiles, including, for example, a straight profile. In yet another embodiment, the slot 266 extends between the front 140 and the back 142 (see Figure 25), and thus defines an opening in the refill 106C. In other embodiments, the slot 266 can include recesses in the front 140, the back 142, or both the front and back 140, 142.

[0063] Referring next to Figure 24, the refill 106C may include a removable film or release film 232, which first protects the adhesive coating 144 before use of the refill 106C, preventing objects or dust from adhering to it. The release film 232 may include branding or other types of information transmitted along its outer surface 234. As shown, the release film 232 may differ in certain respects from the release film 232 of refills 106A and 106B. For example, the release film 232 of refill 106C may be sized to cover the adhesive portion 144 without extending over the retaining opening 268 or the side portion 240. This is beneficial, for example, in reducing the material required to manufacture the release film 232 and in providing a grip area before and during peeling of the release film 232.

[0064] The engagement between the retaining function of the base 102 and the refill 106C allows the refill 106C to be fixed in place when installed, and to be “seated” in a preferred manner, either by clicking or by providing tactile feedback to inform the user that the refill 106C is in place. For example, referring to Figure 25, the lower part 146 of the refill 106C is inserted into the refill slot 156 such that the retaining tab 260 latches into the retaining opening 268 of the refill 106C and the protruding rib 262 engages with the respective sides 140, 142 of the refill 106C. Therefore, when the refill 106C is seated in the refill slot 156, the retaining tab 260 is received within the retaining opening 268 and can at least partially protrude through the retaining opening 268, thereby preventing (or substantially preventing) the movement of the refill 106C through engagement between the retaining tab 260 and the edge defining the retaining opening 268. In particular, when an upward force is applied to the refill 106C, the retaining tab 260 engages with the retaining edge 270 of the retaining opening 268. This engagement can increase the force required to remove the refill 106C, and as a result, the refill 106C can be secured against accidental removal.

[0065] Referring further to Figure 25, when the refill 106C is inserted into the refill slot 156, the adhesive portion 144 remains above the upper surface 126 of the base 102. This configuration minimizes contact between the adhesive portion 104 and the base 102 during the installation of the refill 106C or during the operation of the insect trap device 100, and prevents adhesive residue from accumulating on the base 102 due to contact with the adhesive surface 144.

[0066] Any embodiment described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in relation to different embodiments. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the shape / size of the types of substrates and / or support members specifically shown. In addition, any support member of any embodiment disclosed herein may be modified to work with various types of substrates consistent with the disclosure herein. [Industrial applicability]

[0067] Numerous modifications to this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in consideration of the foregoing description. Therefore, this specification should be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to manufacture and use the apparatus disclosed herein. Exclusive rights to all modifications contained in the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. A removable circuit board for an insect attractant device, Including a main body having a front and a back, The aforementioned main body is The grip section including the slot, and A lower part located below the grip portion, comprising a retaining opening, a first side portion, and a second side portion, with a gap extending between the first side portion and the second side portion, wherein the retaining opening is at least partially defined by a retaining edge portion located along the bottom side of the retaining opening, The adhesive is applied to the front and back surfaces, and the adhesive is positioned between the grip portion and the lower part, surrounded by adhesive-free boundaries on the front and back surfaces. A removable circuit board for an insect attractant device.

2. The removable substrate according to claim 1, wherein the slot extends from the front to the back and defines a curved profile.

3. The removable substrate according to claim 1, wherein the first side portion is a mirror image of the second side portion.

4. The removable substrate according to claim 1, wherein the retaining opening is located in the lateral center of the lower part.

5. The removable substrate according to claim 1, wherein the front surface defines a surface area, and the adhesive is applied to 50% or more of the surface area.

6. The removable substrate according to claim 1, further comprising a release film to be attached to the front surface.

7. The removable substrate according to claim 6, wherein the release film does not extend over the retaining opening.

8. The removable substrate according to claim 1, wherein the main body, the first side portion, and the second side portion are substantially planar with respect to each other.

9. It is an insect attractant device. A base having a top surface, a right surface, and a left surface, A plug extending from the rear of the aforementioned base, At least one LED disposed within the base, A lens extending from the base and having a lower end, wherein the lower end of the lens communicates directly with the at least one LED, and A slot in the base between the lens and the plug, comprising openings on the top, left, and right surfaces, the slot being defined by parallel opposing surfaces having a width between them, and configured to receive a planar substrate, At least one of the parallel opposing surfaces includes a plurality of protruding ribs that project into the slot, Insect attractant.

10. The lens includes a periphery that defines the beveled surface, The insect attractant according to claim 9, wherein the chamfered surface refracts the light emitted by the at least one LED toward the substrate.

11. The insect attractant according to claim 10, wherein the at least one LED includes a UV LED.

12. The insect attractant according to claim 9, further comprising a planar substrate including a lower portion, the lower portion being at least partially received in the slot of the base.

13. The insect attractant according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the parallel opposing surfaces includes a tab that extends at least partially into the slot.

14. It is an insect attractant device. Including a housing that defines the front and rear, The aforementioned housing is An electronic device assembly including an electrical plug, a first resistor, and at least one LED, Lenses, and Retain tab, and A substrate disposed between the lens and the electrical plug, comprising first and second sides configured to straddle the housing, and a retaining opening configured to latch into the retaining tab, The substrate is substantially planar, The retaining tab protrudes at least partially through the substrate, Insect attractant.

15. The insect attractant according to claim 14, wherein the heat dispersed by the first resistor causes the temperature between the substrate and the lens to be about 10 degrees higher than the maximum temperature between the substrate and the back surface.

16. The insect attractant according to claim 14, further comprising a second resistor.

17. The insect attractant according to claim 14, wherein the retaining tab and the first and second sides are located below the substrate, and the housing further includes a plurality of protruding ribs that engage with the lower part to secure the substrate to the housing.

18. The insect attractant according to claim 14, wherein the lens includes a chamfered edge that directs light from the at least one LED outward toward the substrate.

19. The insect attractant according to claim 14, wherein the substrate includes an adhesive applied to a first surface and a second surface, and the adhesive is surrounded by an adhesive-free boundary on the first surface and the second surface.

20. A gap extends between the first side and the second side. The insect attractant according to claim 14.

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