Pest monitoring system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for monitoring, defending against and repelling pests, comprising: - a modular, autonomously movable tool carrier (1) which has an internal energy store (2), a locomotion unit (3), a carrier structure (4) for receiving sensors (5), tools, workpieces, traps (6) and / or baits, - at least one stationary charging station for the tool carrier (1), - at least one storage station for tools, traps (6) and / or baits, - at least one first device for establishing a data connection between the tool carrier (1), charging station and storage station, - at least one control unit for the tool carrier (1), - at least one second device for establishing a data connection for communication with a server, - at least one device for data storage. The present invention also relates to a method for operating a system according to the invention.

Description

[0001] Pest monitoring system

[0002] The present invention relates to a system for monitoring, defense and repelling of pests, in order to detect a pest infestation in a timely manner and to be able to act as required with regard to defense and repelling.

[0003] Preventive and acute pest control, hygiene monitoring according to HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) principles, and the continuous monitoring of at-risk areas and buildings were previously characterized by the early control of pests, primarily rodents, through the continuous baiting with anticoagulants. However, the negative effects and side effects on the environment, bodies of water, and other organisms are now considered so significant and obvious that the use of these substances is strictly regulated and their sale is restricted to trained professionals.

[0004] Currently, anticoagulants are still used as a long-term bait treatment when a rodent infestation is detected. However, current legal plans stipulate that anticoagulants may only be used temporarily and under supervision in outdoor areas and only after an infestation has been confirmed. Once this legal requirement takes effect, an infestation must be confirmed and documented, for example, by baiting with non-toxic bait, before regular pest control measures can be implemented.

[0005] Pest traps and monitoring systems are well-known in literature and practice. Snap traps (classic mousetraps) and various types of rat traps are commonly used for detecting rodents. In commercial settings, unequivocal proof of a pest infestation must be provided before traps are set. Bait stations initially contain bait containing a specific attractant; the absence of this attractant or the presence of feeding marks indicates an infestation.

[0006] An infestation can also be detected, for example, through monitoring using suitable camera systems. Wildlife cameras, which are temporarily mounted in suspected areas and triggered by motion and / or heat sensors, are suitable for this purpose. The footage can then either be manually downloaded from a memory card or transmitted online via a wireless connection. A trained professional must confirm a definite infestation, but this requires a complete review of the footage. Permanent surveillance, on the other hand, requires a significantly larger number of permanently installed camera systems, which quickly calls into question the cost-effectiveness of such an operation.

[0007] An alternative and poison-free method of rodent control is also possible through the use of classic snap trap systems. However, it is essential to monitor the traps closely and at short intervals to ensure prompt cleaning and disposal of the dead animals after successful catches. Recently, trap systems with integrated electronic modules have become established for this purpose. These modules transmit a radio or internet signal when a trap is triggered, thus dispatching the appropriate specialist directly to the location.

[0008] Only non-toxic pest control systems are now permitted indoors. For consistently effective monitoring, a larger number of trap systems is generally required, which in turn necessitates frequent checks and monitoring. In cases of acute infestation, it may even be necessary for qualified personnel to be present in the premises at night and on weekends to detect the pests. Furthermore, it is even more crucial in enclosed spaces that no dead animals are overlooked in the trap systems and that constant monitoring and control of hygiene are maintained.

[0009] EP 2 724 616 B1 discloses a rat trap in which a sensor detects that a rat is near the bait and only then releases it.

[0010] EP 3 549 327 B1 discloses a rat trap with sensors for the rat-killing monitoring device and a shock or motion sensor. Monitoring data, as well as data on the trap's condition and any alarm signals, are transmitted by the sensor system to a server with a network address. A more locally based system, primarily used in forestry, for monitoring specific populations, seeds, and especially environmental conditions is described in DE 20 2023 000 706 U1. This system attracts living organisms through the targeted release of pheromones. Designed primarily for insects that can pass through a counting system, the system can also be expanded with wildlife cameras and, together with other sensors, such as those for precipitation, snow depth, etc., allows conclusions to be drawn about the environmental conditions.

[0011] DE 11 2021 002 756 T5 discloses a method and a device for performing analyses on image data, for example, for applying data analyses such as deep learning algorithms to sensor data. The disclosed method obtains results faster than conventional methods and also enables energy-saving operation of the camera device.

[0012] German patent application DE 10 2019 005 892 A1 describes a method for the reliable detection of animals of any species using artificial intelligence via a neural network with subsequent signaling. Commercially available outdoor cameras are used, which trigger recordings based on animal movement. This image information is transmitted wirelessly or via wired data transmission to a defined destination. The system consists of two parts. The first part manages the customer base, while the second part receives and analyzes the image information based on contractually agreed parameters. Possible triggers for signaling include the presence of animals of a specific species, their direction of migration, and their probability of being in a particular area.

[0013] Although each known solution has its own advantages, conventional pest monitoring systems have significant drawbacks. They require a large number of personnel to ensure close monitoring of traps, especially across large areas. Both bait traps and snap traps must be checked to confirm the pests have been killed. A major problem is that traps are only set after initial indications, such as pest sightings. Existing camera-based pest monitoring systems are not yet suitable for large-scale use and are primarily designed for wildlife management. Furthermore, these systems are mostly designed for outdoor use and are therefore location-dependent.Therefore, there is a need for a novel system for monitoring, defending against, and deterring pests, which overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages and uses one or more mobile camera systems instead of many fixed or temporary camera systems to carry out close monitoring of an area while simultaneously reducing the required equipment and personnel deployment, using known technology, especially hardware-related, as well as AI and deep learning-supported software in combination with expertise, in order to identify pests without doubt and eliminate them in a targeted manner.

[0014] The aforementioned problem is solved in a first aspect of the present invention by a system for monitoring, preventing and repelling pests, comprising

[0015] - a modular, autonomously moving tool carrier (1) comprising an internal energy storage device (2), a propulsion unit (3), a support structure (4) for receiving sensors, tools, workpieces, traps and / or baits (6),

[0016] - at least one stationary charging station for the tool carrier (1),

[0017] - at least one storage station for tools, traps (6) and / or bait,

[0018] - at least an initial device for establishing a data connection (5) between tool carrier (1), charging station and storage station,

[0019] - at least one control unit for the tool carrier (1),

[0020] - at least a second device for establishing a data connection (5) for communication with a server,

[0021] - at least a data storage facility.

[0022] According to the invention, a modular, autonomously movable tool carrier (1) with energy storage (2) and propulsion unit (3) is used. Its support structure (4) also includes provisions for accommodating sensors (5), tools and tool holders, as well as traps (6). The energy storage (2) is charged at at least one charging station, which is not necessarily fixed in location.

[0023] This also enables inductive charging of the tool carrier (1), both at at least one charging point in the vicinity and at designated induction loops. Refilling of an optionally provided compressed air drive is also possible if direct contact between the tool carrier (1) and the environment is not possible or desired, even briefly, but ground-level monitoring is required.

[0024] Furthermore, tools, traps (6) and / or bait can be taken from at least one storage station, which can be accessed by the autonomously movable tool carrier (1) and positioned as needed within the area to be monitored. The tool carrier (1) contains a control unit to move through the area to be monitored either autonomously or via an additional first data interface. Data acquired by sensors (5) is sent to a server via a second data interface and temporarily stored for this purpose.

[0025] Automated movement within a monitored environment opens up entirely new possibilities in pest control. For example, even areas that are difficult for humans to access can be monitored and inspected for pest infestations.

[0026] The complete pest monitoring system also offers the following advantages: Instead of using numerous fixed or temporary camera systems to monitor a broadly defined indoor area, the mobile system can be used to monitor a specific area, depending on its size. This system consists of a few mobile units with various sensors (5), combined with intelligent software. Targeted control and the use of software allow for the identification of areas that require more or less frequent monitoring. Since rodent activity is primarily observed during quiet periods, outside of normal working hours, monitoring can be carried out throughout the day without additional personnel. A low-profile design for the tool carrier (1) is preferred to achieve nearly the same viewing angle as the rodents being detected.The success rate for detection can therefore be considered quite high.

[0027] In a particular embodiment, sensors (5) are provided for detecting the movement patterns of pests. Crucially for the system's functionality, the mobile tool carrier (1) is equipped with sensors (5) that allow navigation within the monitored environment and reliably detect obstacles. Various concepts are available, which are listed here (not exhaustively): optical sensors, infrared sensors, and acoustic sensors. A map of the monitored environment can be created via the first data interface. A charging station can be used as a reference point. Data on the mobile unit's charge level is also exchanged via this first data interface.

[0028] Further sensors (5) on the mobile tool carrier (1) are intended to detect the movement patterns of rodents, for example by means of special odor sensors, heat sensors and optical sensors (5), whereby image material is recorded at certain time intervals or continuously, on the basis of which an infestation of pests can be detected.

[0029] For the sensors (5) used to detect walking or driving paths, the system is equipped with light sources (LED, infrared, strobe light) or night vision devices for effective detection at night and in unlit rooms. Energy consumption during inspections is expected to be low, since, depending on the operating mode, only partial distances need to be covered and the system will otherwise be in a standby-like state, monitoring the environment with other sensors (5). This allows for long operating times for the overall system.

[0030] Camera systems are the primary, but not the only, optical sensors (5) used to detect pests. Through continuous monitoring, the acquired data is stored, at least temporarily, on the mobile tool carrier (1) and then transmitted to a server via a second data interface. Advantageously, the image data is analyzed there to identify pests by comparing the data with AI-supported software and a database that is continuously expanded and updated with acquired images. It is also possible for this process to take place locally on the mobile tool carrier (1) if the computing power and energy storage capacity of the mobile tool carrier (1) permit. Foreign organisms that must not be controlled, such as pigeons in a warehouse, can be deterred by the intelligent system.If such populations are detected, they can be scared away by acoustic or optical components docked to the system, irregular sound waves with noises audible or inaudible to humans, light effects (stroboscopic light) or drones, provided that intelligent communication between the systems is re-established.

[0031] It is known that rodents have very limited eyesight and rely heavily on scent trails, which develop through repeated use by the rodents. Equipped with appropriate scent detection, the intelligent system can detect early on which paths are frequently used or will be used by rodents. Based on this knowledge, trapping systems can be effectively deployed and control measures can be successful before the population increases significantly.

[0032] The numerous sensors (5) and the data they generate allow software to determine which areas should be specifically monitored. Optical sensors (5) can also be used to document the condition of the structure or its surroundings. For example, if positioned appropriately on the mobile tool carrier (1), they can monitor groundwater runoff and identify cracks or potential crack progression. Therefore, the mobile tool carrier (1) equipped with sensors (5) can also be used for structural monitoring, provided that the acquired data is compared with relevant databases.

[0033] A particular embodiment provides that the mobile tool carrier (1) communicates with the charging station via a first device for establishing a data connection (5). Data on the state of charge of the energy storage device (2) and on the relative or absolute position of the mobile tool carrier (1) are exchanged. Possible methods include network connections, Bluetooth, NFC, and data exchange via a SIM card in the mobile network. Software determines the time for the mobile tool carrier (1) to return to the charging station. If it is possible to charge the mobile tool carrier (1) inductively, the position data is still collected. After the mobile tool carrier (1) returns autonomously to the base station, the energy storage device (2) is recharged, and the collected data is read out and stored for verification and documentation of the monitoring performed.A particular embodiment of the tool carrier (1) is designed to move autonomously. This means that, after a start command, it can move independently within the area to be monitored without necessarily heading towards a specific target. Whether the movement within the monitored area is random or follows a defined routine is irrelevant. The goal is to cover the entire area. The geography of the monitored area is continuously transmitted via the first data interface, also to track the position of the mobile tool carrier (1). Additionally, the mobile tool carrier (1) can be controlled to move towards a specific target, for example, to collect data there using the attached sensors (5).

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the mobile tool carrier (1) has at least a short-term storage option for the data collected by the sensors (5). Long-term data storage can also be provided. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the data collected by the sensors (5) are transmitted via a second data interface to a server where the data is evaluated. The specific type of network connection must be adapted to the respective application of the system according to the invention. Possible options include network connections, Bluetooth, NFC, and data exchange via a SIM card in a mobile network. The sole purpose is the exchange of sensor data from the mobile tool carrier (1) to a server.

[0035] In a particular embodiment, the support structure (4) of the mobile tool carrier (1) is detachably connected to the propulsion device.

[0036] The mobile tool carrier (1) has a preferably electric drive which is either part of the support structure (4) or part of the propulsion device (3). The propulsion devices (3) can have drive types with ground contact, such as a direct wheel drive or a drive controlled via a transmission unit, a chain drive, or a roller drive. Optional support wheels without drive have proven advantageous. For drive without ground contact, options include either a recoil principle using air nozzles directed towards the ground or at least one rotor on the mobile tool carrier (1). Individual drive elements can be mounted in the support structure (4).A detachable connection between the support structure (4) and the mobile tool carrier (1) has proven advantageous in order to be able to replace components more quickly, and thus keep the service life short, or to equip the mobile tool carrier (1) with other drive units optimized for the respective application.

[0037] The second aspect of the invention is a complete system for monitoring pests and can be understood as the first operating mode. After activation of the mobile tool carrier (1), the mobile tool carrier (1) moves through the environment to be monitored as described above. The data continuously collected during this process is transmitted to a server, either continuously or at specific points. There, the data is analyzed and evaluated. This is done by comparing the acquired data with data in a database using software. It has proven advantageous to use software that is self-learning according to the principles of the invention and uses the acquired data to continuously provide more accurate diagnoses of potential pest infestations or structural damage.

[0038] If threshold values ​​are exceeded, this can indicate a pest infestation, and a corresponding notification is generated. The term "threshold value" here refers both to single values, regardless of whether these are obtained directly from the sensors (5) or calculated by software, and to the result of a complex check, such as comparing image material with other images in a database.

[0039] By comparing captured images with images in a database, not only can potential pest infestations be detected, but building monitoring can also be carried out. This allows potential structural defects to be identified early, before an infestation occurs. Structural defects can significantly facilitate rodent access to a building. The advantageous low camera position not only allows for the detection of rodents at the level of their preferred habitat, but also, for example, enables the identification of areas in storage or kitchens where further cleaning is necessary to prevent future infestations.

[0040] Information on pest infestation or structural defects is stored with location data and timestamp, and can thus be used to give initial guidance to the expert and to have the pest infestation confirmed by a specialist.

[0041] The third aspect of the invention relates to the tool carrier (1) either directly occupying a position in the environment to be observed, or by modifying the continuous environmental monitoring according to operating mode 1 such that the mobile tool carrier (1) remains in one location while data continues to be recorded. The location of the mobile tool carrier (1) can either be predetermined by a person skilled in the art or selected based on recommendations from the software. The duration of the dwell time at the location can be fixed or variable. The data collected during this time is sent to the server via the second data interface, where it is analyzed. This iteration allows for the identification of hotspots of pest infestation. Through data analysis, the self-learning system recognizes which areas require more frequent and which areas require more sporadic monitoring.Findings deemed suspicious by the software are saved with a timestamp and location information and can be verified by the expert.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment according to aspects 2 and 3 of the invention, special storage stations for pest traps are also considered part of the system. Prepared snap trap systems (6), stored in a separately provided collection station, can be distributed via a docking device on the support structure (4), e.g., electromagnetically or via special receiving points. Depending on the applicable legal regulations, the deployed traps (6) can contain either non-toxic bait or bait with anticoagulants, or be designed as snap traps. In this way, the system can precisely deploy trap systems in the previously detected areas. Furthermore, the trap systems can be baited with various baits, e.g., cereals, bacon, Nutella, nuts, etc.

[0043] The positioning of the bait is roughly predetermined by basic programming and refined by the system's AI-based learning capability or can be selected by a specialist based on the data available in the software. For example, it is known that sugary baits will not be successful in a storage area filled with sugary foods. Successfully triggered traps (6) are reattached along with their catch and transported to a specially equipped collection station. All traps (6) can be returned to the collection station before the end of the monitoring period to avoid disruptions during normal business operations. Whether a deployed trap system (6) has been triggered empty or with a catch can be determined via a camera or other sensors (5). The camera can be triggered, for example, by a vibration, even if no catch is present.To ensure that this trap (6) is not useless, it can be re-armed after verification by the monitoring system, for example by data from other sensors (5), via an electronic impulse, provided the trap has a modern battery-powered tensioning device.

[0044] In the food sector, a particular embodiment of the system according to aspect 2 and aspect 3 shows that intelligent integration of the system into goods receipt and dynamic adaptation of the control areas to newly stored food products leads to the earlier detection of rodents introduced in pallets or other packaging, thus preventing infestation of the rest of the area in time.

[0045] A special further development of the system according to aspects 1 and 2 or 3 is that, upon confirmed detection of a pest, all traps (6) in the vicinity and in the probable or previously detected path of the pest rodent are activated.

[0046] A particular embodiment of the system according to aspects 1 to 3 is that the system can be used to identify areas that should be monitored preventively against infestation as part of hygiene monitoring. This includes monitoring or controlling a cleaning process or result, as well as monitoring potential structural damage classified as "to be observed" by the plaintiff. For example, crack propagation can be documented using suitable sensors (5).

[0047] Further objectives, features, advantages, and applications will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments that do not limit the invention, also with reference to the figures. All features described and / or illustrated, individually or in any combination, constitute the subject matter of the invention, even independently of their compilation in the claims or their cross-references. The figures show:

[0048] Fig. 1 is a graphic representation of the modular, autonomously movable tool carrier 1 according to the invention in one possible embodiment, perspective view.

[0049] Fig. 2 shows a graphic representation of the modular, autonomously movable tool carrier 1 according to the invention in one possible embodiment, perspective view from a low angle.

[0050] Fig. 3 shows a detailed graphic representation of the modular, autonomously movable tool carrier 1 according to the invention in a view from below.

[0051] Fig. 4 perspective view of a modular autonomously moving tool carrier 1 equipped with tools, workpieces or traps and

[0052] Fig. 5 perspective view from below of a modular autonomously movable tool carrier equipped with tools, workpieces or traps 1.

[0053] In the figures, all identical components are named with the same reference symbols; however, for the sake of clarity, not all reference symbols are necessarily included in all representations.

[0054] Reference numeral 5 refers to both the sensors and the data connection, since the device shown in the figures can have both together or separately.

[0055] Figure 1 shows a possible embodiment of the mobile, autonomously moving tool carrier 1. Figure 1 depicts a particularly preferred embodiment in which three propulsion units 3, here in the form of rollers, are mounted on a support structure 4. Depending on the substrate and the specific application, other propulsion units 3, such as tracks or nozzles, are also possible, as described above. The support structure 4 is shown here as a triangular shape in plan view, with receptacles for tools, workpieces, or traps 6 provided on two sides of the triangle, which protrude prominently from the plane of the support. Since the support structure 4 is a free-form component, it is shown here in an exemplary, preferred configuration. Its functionality must be ensured to accommodate tools, workpieces, or traps 6.However, there are no technical limits to their positioning or the shape of the support structure 4, provided that the functionality is given.

[0056] In this illustration, the internal energy storage unit 2 is shown, by way of example, positioned on the underside of the support structure 4. This serves to provide energy for the propulsion unit 3, but also as an energy source for sensors 5 and data connections 5.

[0057] The modular, autonomously movable tool carrier 1 also includes numerous sensors 5 or communication units for data exchange to perceive the environment and forward the acquired data. Figure 1 shows three possible positions for sensors 5 and communication units, which can be selected and equipped depending on the parameters to be measured.

[0058] Figure 2 shows further positions for sensors 5 on the underside of the tool carrier 1. The internal energy storage unit 2 and the propulsion unit 3, which are connected to the support structure 4, are also clearly visible.

[0059] Figure 3 shows a side view of the autonomously moving tool carrier 1. The central support structure 4 provides mounting points for the propulsion unit 3 and the internal energy storage unit 2. The sensors 5 on the underside of the support structure 4 are clearly visible, as are the lateral mounting options, designed here as part of the support structure 4, for holding tools, workpieces, or traps 6, which protrude upwards on both sides as part of the support structure 4. Further sensors 5 for path and travel detection, pest detection, or data exchange are located in the center and at the top of the modular, autonomously moving tool carrier 1.

[0060] A tool carrier 1 equipped with traps 6 is shown in perspective in Figures 4 and 5. The traps are received by the triangularly shaped carrier structure 4 on two legs in such a way that the sensor system 5 is not obstructed or restricted.

[0061] In another embodiment of the system, further systems, e.g., cleaning systems, can be combined with the disclosed system. Specific areas can be cleaned using data, with the disclosed system transmitting the affected areas via coordinates.

[0062] If the intelligent system is more closely integrated into the building management system, it can also communicate with doors that remain closed for security reasons but can be temporarily opened via their own drives. This allows the intelligent system to be actively used across multiple building areas.

[0063] Individual components and capabilities, described so far in connection with the complete system, can also be assigned to other vehicles or equipment. For example, it is conceivable that modules could be attached to industrial trucks in a warehouse, which would then exchange data with the intelligent system, thus extending monitoring both temporally and spatially.

[0064] Another approach is for the intelligent system to place artificially produced attractants, similar to pheromones, thereby confusing a population of pest rodents.

[0065] One particular embodiment provides that, based on the detected active rodent population, the AI-based system deduces population behavior and independently detects, documents, and reports any building damage and / or previously undetected entry points. The low-profile design and the camera's rodent-like viewing angle are significant advantages in this regard.

[0066] In another embodiment, all previously described applications for indoor areas are also applicable to outdoor areas. Special outdoor equipment can be helpful in this regard. This equipment can be characterized, for example, by increased moisture protection, an all-terrain chassis (e.g., tracked chassis), additional attached components (theft protection), and other features.

[0067] By combining it with drones, it is conceivable to monitor higher-lying and difficult-to-reach areas.

[0068] In a further development, all the capabilities and performance of the system described above, primarily using rodent pests as an example, can also be applied to other pests. For use with crawling insects like cockroaches or flying insects like moths, only the detection method, possibly the camera module, and the trapping systems need to be adapted. The general operating principle remains virtually unchanged and is only modified sequentially.

[0069] Reference symbol list

[0070] 1 modular, autonomously movable tool carrier

[0071] 2 internal energy storage

[0072] 3. Unit of movement

[0073] 4T support structure for mounting sensors

[0074] 5 sensors / data connection

[0075] 6 Trap

Claims

Patent claims 1. System for monitoring, defense and deterring pests, comprising a modular, autonomously movable tool carrier (1) having an internal energy storage device (2), a propulsion unit (3), a support structure (4) for receiving sensors (5), tools, workpieces, traps (6) and / or baits, at least one stationary charging station for the tool carrier (1), at least one storage station for tools, traps (6) and / or baits, at least one first device for establishing a data connection between the tool carrier (1), the charging station and the storage station, at least one control unit for the tool carrier (1), at least one second device for establishing a data connection for communication with a server, at least one device for data storage.

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the sensors (5) which are incorporated in the carrier structure (4) are selected from olfactory sensors for detecting the movement paths of pests, and / or Sensors for detecting the movement or travel path of the tool carrier (1), and / or Sensors for detecting obstacles in the walking or driving path of the tool carrier (1) and / or optical sensors for detecting and / or indicating pest infestation and / or optionally other, for example acoustic and / or optical sensors.

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tool carrier communicates with the charging station via the first device for establishing a data connection (5).

4. System according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the tool carrier (1) is autonomously movable and can additionally be controlled via a data interface and thus be steered in a targeted manner.

5. System according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the data determined by the sensors (5) can be stored both locally on the mobile tool carrier (1) and can also be stored on a server via the second device for establishing a data connection.

6. System according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the support structure (4) is detachably connected to the locomotion device (3) and can also receive it in a form-fitting manner, and constitutes parts of the bearing of individual elements or components of the locomotion device (3).

7. Method for operating a system for monitoring, preventing, and repelling pests according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising in a first operating mode the steps a) activating the tool carrier (1), b) systematically and continuously recording the environment over a specific period of time, wherein the tool carrier (1) continuously moves autonomously in the environment and exchanges the data acquired with a server via the second data connection (5), c) comparing the data acquired by the sensors (5) with data from an internal or external database in a network in order to detect direct or indirect indications of pest infestation, risk of pest infestation, or potential structural defects in a building or its environment, d) storing the identified locations of a direct or indirect indication of pest infestation by means of image material or other sensor data with associated position information.

8. Method for operating a system for monitoring, defending against and deterring pests according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising in a second operating mode the steps a) activating the tool carrier (1), b) systematically and continuously recording the environment over a specific period of time, wherein the tool carrier (1) assumes and remains in an optimal position and continuously exchanges data collected about the environment with a server via the second data connection (5) during this period of time, c) Comparing the data obtained from the sensors (5) with data from an internal or external database in a network to detect direct or indirect evidence of pest infestation, risk of pest infestation, or potential structural defects in a building or its surroundings; d) Storing the identified locations of direct or indirect evidence of pest infestation by means of images or other sensor data with associated position and time information.

9. Method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein individual traps (6) are taken from the storage station by the tool carrier (1) and transported to the place of use and placed there.

10. Method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the control of the tool carrier (1) is designed such that, after connecting the system to a goods receipt system of a warehouse, new goods receipts are reinforced and specifically monitored in the first or second operating mode of the tool carrier in order to prevent widespread infestation in the event of infestation of the new goods.

11. Method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the control of the tool carrier (1) is designed such that monitoring of the environment is also designed for the purpose of general hygiene monitoring and building monitoring.

12. Method according to claim 7 or 8, wherein, upon confirmed detection of a pest, all traps in the vicinity and in the probable or previously detected path of a pest are activated.

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