Laser-based platform for efficient control and elimination of insects

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the field of insect control technologies and addresses the technical problem of efficient, residue-free dispersion of pesticidal formulations. The described system provides a laser-powered insect control device that utilizes a laser diode to induce phase transitions—vaporization, sublimation, or ignition—of pesticidal materials contained in a cartridge. The device incorporates a heat sink, fan, and air duct system to enhance convection and facilitate the dissemination of the pesticidal formulation into the environment. Applications include portable or tabletop use for repelling or eliminating insects with low energy consumption, minimal maintenance, and without spatial orientation limitations. This approach addresses drawbacks of conventional methods by offering precise, energy-efficient, and residue-free insect control

Description

LASER-BASED PLATFORM FOR EFFICIENT CONTROL AND ELIMINATION OF INSECTSCross Reference to Related Application

[0001] The present application claims priority to Applicant’s U.S. Provisional Application Serial Number 63 / 679,435, filed August 5, 2024, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.Field of Invention

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to insect control technologies, and more particularly to laser-powered devices for vaporizing, sublimating, or igniting pesticides to eliminate insects.Background

[0003] An insect repellent and exterminating device is a component designed to safeguard individuals from biting and disease-carrying insects during various outdoor and indoor activities. The device disperses active compounds into the surrounding air to create a protective zone and may take the form of wearable units, handheld spray dispensers, tabletop diffusers, or mounted systems. Such a device not only functions to repel or eliminate insects but also impacts user satisfaction through factors such as energy consumption, operational noise, and ease of maintenance. These devices are frequently utilized during camping, hiking, picnics, backyard gatherings, and commercial events where insect-borne nuisances or health concerns may occur. Although a range of form factors is available on the market, numerous current solutions still involve trade-offs between convenience and performance.

[0004] Prior research in insect control technologies has been focused on improving the longevity of dispersed agents, reducing chemical usage, and minimizing environmental impact. Efforts have included enhancing battery life to extend runtime, increasing cartridge capacity to broaden coverage area, and formulating more potent active compounds for greater efficacy. At the same time, materials science investigations have targeted the development of more stable repellent chemistries and advanced dispersal media. However, most approaches continue to rely on passive or heat-based release mechanisms that can be bulky, require frequent replacement components, or generate secondary byproducts.

[0005] Different approaches have been pursued to mitigate insect activity and disperse repellent or pesticidal agents. These include chemical aerosol sprays that rely on pressurized propellants; heat-activated evaporator mats or pads; electric grid zappers that electrocute1 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25attracted insects; ultrasonic diffusers that generate fine mist from liquid formulations; and passive wicks that depend on ambient air currents. To date, there have been no reports of utilizing focused energy beams to induce rapid phase transitions in insecticidal formulations for controlled dispersion.

[0006] Chemical aerosol sprays typically employ volatile active ingredients mixed with gaseous propellants to form fine droplets that drift through the air. Heat-activated evaporators raise the temperature of treated pads or liquids to accelerate vaporization, often consuming significant power or fuel and producing unwanted combustion byproducts. Electric zappers use ultraviolet or visible light sources to lure insects before delivering a lethal voltage, generating insect debris and audible noise. Ultrasonic and misting devices require complex mechanical assemblies that can clog or degrade over time. As a result, these methods often require bulky cartridges, specialized fuel canisters, or regular cleaning to maintain efficacy.

[0007] Directed energy sources such as focused electromagnetic radiation have proven capable in industrial and laboratory settings of delivering localized heat to small volumes, thereby enabling precise vaporization or sublimation of materials. By concentrating energy into designated regions, these techniques can achieve rapid phase changes with minimal thermal spread, thus reducing overall power requirements and eliminating solid or liquid residues. Controlled energy pulses allow adjustable release rates tailored to environmental conditions and target species. However, the concept of applying directed energy beams for the vaporization or sublimation of insecticidal compounds has not been explored in existing insect control devices.

[0008] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an insect control device that employs directed energy to efficiently convert liquid, gel, or solid pesticidal formulations into a vapor or aerosol, while minimizing residue formation, reducing power consumption, and simplifying maintenance requirements.Summary

[0009] The present disclosure relates to the field of insect control technologies, and more specifically to devices and methods for efficiently dispersing pesticidal formulations using laser-powered systems. The described technology addresses the need for precise, energy- efficient, and residue-free insect control by utilizing a laser diode to induce phase transitions in pesticidal materials, combined with airflow and convection features to enhance dissemination.2 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25

[0010] The disclosure provides a laser-powered insect control device that includes a housing with a cartridge slot, at least one air intake, and at least one exhaust vent. Within the housing, a laser diode is aligned with the cartridge slot and thermally coupled to a heat sink. The device further comprises a power supply, a circuit board configured to regulate the operation of the laser diode, a fan electrically connected to the circuit board, and an air duct system that directs airflow from the air intake to the exhaust vent. A cartridge containing a pesticidal formulation is inserted into the cartridge slot and positioned near the laser diode and heat sink. The circuit board controls the laser diode to induce a phase transition of the pesticidal formulation and activates the fan to facilitate airflow for dissemination of the pesticidal formulation.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the housing features a removable cover designed to block laser light from escaping. The power supply may include at least one rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The laser diode may operate at a wavelength between 405 nm and 488 nm. The cartridge may contain a substrate impregnated with a liquid pesticidal formulation, which can be an evaporation wick or solid crystals doped with a pesticidal agent. The fan may be configured to generate a low-pressure region above the cartridge, and the circuit board may control the duty cycle of the laser diode to adjust the vaporization rate. Additional features can include a battery level indicator, cool air intake slots, convection-enhancing air vents, and a cylindrical heat sink that utilizes waste heat from the laser diode to assist in the phase transition of the pesticidal formulation.

[0012] The described technology also encompasses a method for controlling insects using the laser-powered device. The method involves providing a housing with a cartridge slot, air intake, and exhaust vent; inserting a cartridge containing a pesticidal formulation in proximity to a laser diode and heat sink; activating a power supply to energize a circuit board connected to the laser diode and fan; regulating the laser diode to induce a phase transition of the pesticidal formulation; activating the fan to generate airflow through an air duct system; and disseminating the pesticidal formulation into the environment through the exhaust vent. The method may further include positioning a substrate-impregnated cartridge, adjusting the duty cycle of the laser diode, generating a low-pressure region above the cartridge, utilizing a cylindrical heat sink, and displaying battery status.

[0013] Additionally, the disclosure provides an apparatus for insect control comprising a housing with a front side, cartridge slot, power supply compartment, circuit board compartment, and removable cover. The apparatus includes a laser diode aligned with the cartridge slot, a cartridge containing a pesticidal formulation positioned above the laser diode,3 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25a power supply, a circuit board configured to regulate the laser diode, a fan mounted within the housing, a fan duct to direct air from outside into the housing, and air ducts to enhance convection. The laser diode is configured to vaporize or sublimate the pesticidal formulation, and the fan and air ducts facilitate dissemination of the pesticidal formulation into the surrounding environment.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014] The present invention will be more fully understood and appreciated by reading the following Detailed Description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] FIG. 1 A and FIG IB are top plan views of the cover and housing of an insect control device, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of FIG. IB, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective elevation view of an insect control device, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of a laser powered insect control device, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of a laser powered insect control device, in accordance with an embodiment.Detailed Description

[0020] The following detailed description provides illustrative embodiments of the present technology, which pertains to the field of insect control technologies, particularly devices that utilize directed energy, such as laser-powered systems, to vaporize, sublimate, or ignite pesticidal formulations for insect elimination. The described technology is presented in the context of portable and tabletop devices designed to efficiently disperse pesticides into the surrounding environment while addressing common challenges such as residue formation, power consumption, and maintenance requirements. However, it is to be understood that the embodiments described herein are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the described technology.

[0021] For clarity and conciseness, certain well-known components, processes, and techniques may not be described in extensive detail, as they are readily understood by those skilled in the art. Additionally, various modifications, substitutions, and rearrangements of the described elements and configurations are contemplated and are within the scope of the4 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25described subject matter. The specific examples provided are intended to illustrate the principles of the described subject matter and are not to be construed as limiting the described subject matter to the precise forms disclosed.

[0022] The field of insect control has long relied on conventional methods such as chemical aerosol sprays, heat-activated evaporators, electric zappers, and ultrasonic diffusers. While these approaches have been widely adopted, they suffer from significant limitations. Chemical aerosol sprays often rely on volatile propellants, which can pose environmental and health risks. Heat-activated evaporators consume substantial energy, produce unwanted byproducts, and are constrained by spatial orientation requirements. Electric zappers generate noise, debris, and require frequent maintenance, while ultrasonic diffusers and misting devices involve complex mechanical assemblies prone to clogging and degradation. These traditional solutions often necessitate bulky components, specialized refills, or regular cleaning, leading to trade-offs between convenience, performance, and environmental impact. Furthermore, none of these methods leverage directed energy technologies to achieve precise and efficient pesticide dispersion.

[0023] The present technology addresses these limitations by introducing a laser- powered insect control device that utilizes directed energy to vaporize, sublimate, or ignite pesticidal formulations. This approach eliminates the need for bulky cartridges, specialized fuel sources, or high-maintenance components. By employing a low-power laser diode, the device facilitates rapid phase transitions in pesticidal materials with minimal energy consumption and no residue formation. The laser diode is precisely controlled through current, voltage, and timing circuits, allowing for adjustable vaporization rates tailored to environmental conditions and target species. Furthermore, the device incorporates a convection system, including a heat sink, fan, and air ducts, to enhance the dissemination of vaporized pesticides while utilizing waste heat for improved efficiency.

[0024] This concept not only addresses the drawbacks of traditional insect control methods but also introduces a portable, user-friendly, and environmentally conscious solution. The device’s ability to operate without spatial orientation limitations, along with its low power requirements and residue-free operation, represents a notable advancement in the field of insect control technologies. By integrating directed energy with a seamless convection system, the described device provides an efficient and versatile platform for insect repellent and extermination applications.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 1 A, a top view of the laser-powered insect control device, illustrating the housing cover 42 and internal layout of the device is shown. The housing5 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25cover 42 is depicted as the uppermost component and includes exhaust vents 34 for the controlled release of vaporized pesticidal formulation into the ambient environment. The housing cover 42 is secured to the housing 40 by screw fasteners 41 passing through cover mounting holes 38 and housing mounting holes 36. The housing cover 42 is constructed to block any laser light from escaping the device, thereby ensuring user safety during operation.

[0026] FIG. IB shows the internal arrangement of primary components housed within the housing 40. The user interface is provided by the power switch 12, which activates or deactivates the device. Power is supplied by two batteries — battery number one 22 and battery number two 24 — connected via the positive battery lead 14 and the negative battery lead 16. These leads deliver electrical energy to the circuit board 20 through the circuit board switch lead 18. The circuit board 20 regulates the laser diode 26 in terms of current, voltage, and duty cycle to achieve precise and efficient vaporization, sublimation, or ignition of the pesticidal formulation.

[0027] A pesticide substrate 28 is held in place by a substrate frame 30, collectively forming the pesticide insert 31 , which is inserted into the device through the pesticide insert slot 32. The laser diode 26 is mounted on a laser diode heat sink 44 to dissipate heat generated during operation and to utilize waste heat in assisting pesticide vaporization. The air intake 45, located on the housing 40, introduces cooler ambient air to facilitate convection and to enhance the release of vaporized pesticide through the exhaust vents 34. Accordingly, this configuration ensures efficient operation with minimal energy consumption, no residue formation, and a portable, user-friendly solution for insect control.

[0028] Referring to FIG. 2, a cross-sectional view of the laser-powered insect control device illustrates the internal arrangement of components and their functional interplay within the system.

[0029] A magnetic circuit board contact one 50 and magnetic circuit board contact two 52 are positioned to facilitate the electrical connection between the battery cartridge compartment 72 and the round circuit board 82. Accordingly, these magnetic contacts ensure secure and reliable connectivity, enabling the transfer of power from the battery cartridge compartment 72 to the round circuit board 82. The circuit board bridge contact one 54 and circuit board contact one 56, together with the circuit board bridge contact two 52 and circuit board contact two, form an integrated electrical pathway that completes the circuit, thereby allowing the device to operate efficiently.

[0030] In some embodiments, the side mount laser diode 64 is strategically positioned within the housing to align with the evaporation wick 68. The evaporation wick 68 serves as6 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25a medium for vaporizing the pesticide stored in the pesticide reservoir 70. The side mount laser diode 64 emits focused energy onto the evaporation wick 68, inducing rapid vaporization of the pesticide. Moreover, the cylindrical heat sink 78, which surrounds the evaporation wick 68, dissipates waste heat generated by the side mount laser diode 64 and utilizes this heat to assist in the vaporization process, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0031] A pesticide cartridge compartment 74 houses the pesticide cartridge 76, which contains the pesticidal formulation. The pesticide cartridge 76 is securely locked into place within the compartment using a locking mechanism that includes a locking nub. This ensures proper alignment and stability are maintained during operation, allowing the pesticide to be effectively vaporized or sublimated.

[0032] In FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the battery cartridge compartment 72 is seen to accommodate the battery cartridge, which supplies power to the device. The round circuit board 82, positioned above the battery cartridge compartment 72, regulates the operation of the side mount laser diode 64 by controlling the current, voltage, and duty cycle. Precise regulation enables adjustable vaporization rates tailored to specific environmental conditions and target insect species.

[0033] Overall, the seamless integration of these components within the housing ensures efficient operation of the device. The cylindrical heat sink 78, in conjunction with the evaporation wick 68 and pesticide reservoir 70, forms a convection-enhancing system that facilitates the dissemination of vaporized pesticide into the surrounding environment. These results demonstrate minimized energy consumption, elimination of residue formation, and provision of a user-friendly solution for insect control.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the alternate embodiment of the laser- powered insect control device 46, illustrating the components that contribute to the functionality and user interface of the device. The exploded representation indicates how each part interacts with the others to form a cohesive system and highlights the modular nature of the device architecture.

[0035] Accordingly, the alternate housing 80 forms the primary enclosure for the device, providing structural support and protection for internal components. The housing 80 is dimensioned to accommodate the integration of various subsystems — including optics, power management, and aerosol generation — while ensuring portability and ease of use. In addition, convection channels and airflow vents are incorporated into the housing design, thereby enhancing the efficiency of pesticide dissemination.7 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25

[0036] A lighted switch 61 is included as part of the user interface, allowing the user to activate or deactivate the device. The lighted switch 61 provides immediate visual feedback, indicating the operational status of the device. This feature enhances usability, particularly under low-light conditions, and ensures that the operator can readily identify whether the device is powered on.

[0037] The battery level indicator 63 is positioned adjacent to the lighted switch 61 and serves to display the remaining charge of the power supply. The indicator 63 employs a multi-segment LED array to convey battery life in real time, thereby enabling the user to monitor power status and plan for timely recharging or battery replacement. The inclusion of this feature enhances the device’s reliability and overall user convenience.

[0038] The exploded view in FIG. 3 also highlights the modular design approach, which facilitates assembly, maintenance, and replacement of individual components. In some embodiments, each subsystem is mounted on a removable sub-frame, allowing rapid exchange without specialized tools. As a result, the device remains user-friendly while maintaining high performance and efficiency in insect control applications.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the laser-powered insect control device 46, illustrating the internal configuration and airflow features that enhance the efficiency of pesticide dissemination. In this embodiment, a convection system is integrated to optimize the release of vaporized pesticide into the surrounding environment. Accordingly, the device employs a synergistic arrangement of air inlets, ducts, and vents to maintain a continuous airflow cycle while preserving internal thermal stability.

[0040] Alternate housing 80 forms the primary enclosure for the device, providing structural support and protection for the internal components. The housing 80 is configured to accommodate airflow-enhancing features, thereby ensuring efficient operation and portability. By comparison, traditional housings lack dedicated venting and ducting, which results in suboptimal pesticide dispersion. Positioned within the housing are convectionenhancing air vents 86, which facilitate the movement of air through the device and direct airflow toward the vaporized pesticide, thereby improving dispersion into the environment.

[0041] Cool-air intake slots 66 are located on the sides of the housing 80 and serve as entry points for ambient air. These slots play a role in the convection system, allowing cooler air to be drawn into the device as heated, pesticide-laden air exits through the vents. This continuous airflow cycle helps release vaporized pesticides efficiently while keeping the internal temperature of the device within operational limits.8 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25

[0042] The fan duct 90 is positioned within the housing 80 to channel air from the coolair intake slots 66 toward the convection- enhancing air vents 86 and operates in conjunction with a fan (not shown in this figure but described in other embodiments) to create a low- pressure region above the evaporation zone. As a result, the low-pressure system further enhances the dissemination of vaporized pesticide by expelling heated air through the convection-enhancing air vents 86. The integration of these airflow features within the alternate housing 80 ensures that the laser-powered insect control device 46 operates with minimal energy consumption, optimized pesticide dispersion, and reduced pesticide potency and volume required to effectively repel or eliminate insects.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the laser-powered insect control device 46, illustrating the structural features that facilitate airflow and enhance the convection system for efficient pesticide dissemination. In particular, this view highlights the spatial relationship between the cool air intake slots 66, the internal fan assembly 92, and the exhaust vents 34, thereby providing insight into the device’s thermal and fluidic management strategy.

[0044] There is a need for maintaining the internal temperature of the device 46 within operational limits while simultaneously optimizing the release of vaporized pesticide into the surrounding environment. To achieve this, the cool air intake slots 66 are positioned on the rear side of the housing 40 to admit ambient air on an ongoing basis. These slots are designed to support the convection system by enabling the steady inflow of cooler air, which in turn replaces the heated, pesticide-laden air expelled through the exhaust vents 34. This airflow cycle helps maintain the device’s thermal balance and improves the uniformity of pesticide dispersion.

[0045] In some embodiments, a fan 92 is mounted within the rear section of the housing 40 and serves as an important component for driving airflow through device 46. The fan 92 operates in conjunction with the convection system to generate a low-pressure region above the evaporation zone, thereby promoting the efficient dissemination of vaporized pesticide. By comparison with passive systems, the fan-assisted configuration ensures that vaporized pesticide is effectively conveyed out of the device 46, resulting in improved overall dispersion efficiency.

[0046] Effective operation of the fan 92 requires secure mounting to minimize vibration and noise. To achieve this, the fan 92 is secured in place using fan mounting screws 94, which provide stability and ensure precise alignment within the housing 40. This mounting configuration is optimized to direct airflow through the internal ducts and vents, further enhancing the convection system’s performance. Moreover, the integration of cool air intake9 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25slots 66, fan 92, and fan mounting screws 94 within the rear section underscores the design’s focus on efficient airflow management, reduced energy consumption, and low-power operation.

[0047] The arrangement of a laser diode, heat sink, and cartridge containing a pesticidal formulation within the housing enables precise and efficient phase transitions (vaporization, sublimation, or ignition) of the pesticidal formulation. By utilizing a circuit board to regulate the laser diode's operation, the device ensures controlled energy delivery, minimizing power consumption while achieving effective pesticide dispersion. The integration of a fan and air duct system facilitates the dissemination of the vaporized pesticide into the environment, ensuring uniform distribution and enhanced coverage. This configuration eliminates the need for bulky components, reduces residue formation, and simplifies maintenance compared to traditional insect control devices. Additionally, the use of directed energy for phase transitions avoids the environmental and health risks associated with chemical propellants or combustion-based systems.

[0048] The method provides a systematic approach to insect control by leveraging a laser diode to induce phase transitions in pesticidal formulations. The precise regulation of the laser diode by the circuit board ensures efficient energy usage and allows for adjustable vaporization rates tailored to environmental conditions and target insect species. The activation of the fan and the airflow directed through the air duct system enhances the dissemination of the pesticidal formulation, ensuring effective coverage of the surrounding environment. This method eliminates the need for spatial orientation limitations, reduces energy consumption, and avoids the production of harmful byproducts, offering a cleaner and more efficient alternative to conventional insect control methods.

[0049] The apparatus combines a laser diode, cartridge, fan, and air duct system within a compact housing to achieve efficient insect control. The alignment of the laser diode with the cartridge allows for precise vaporization or sublimation of the pesticidal formulation, while the fan and air ducts ensure effective dissemination of the vaporized pesticide into the environment. The inclusion of a removable cover and dedicated compartments for the power supply and circuit board simplifies assembly, maintenance, and component replacement. This design eliminates the need for bulky or specialized refills, reduces residue formation, and provides a portable, user-friendly solution for insect control. The apparatus also minimizes energy consumption and enhances operational safety by preventing laser light from escaping the housing.10 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25

[0050] While various embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and / or structures for performing the function and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is / are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0051] The above-described embodiments of the described subject matter can be implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, some embodiments may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof. When any aspect of an embodiment is implemented at least in part in software, the software code can be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single device or computer or distributed among multiple devices / computers.11 | P « g G22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25

Claims

Claims:What is claimed is:

1. A laser-powered insect control device comprising: a housing having a cartridge slot, at least one air intake, and at least one exhaust vent; a laser diode disposed within the housing and aligned with the cartridge slot; a heat sink thermally coupled to the laser diode; a power supply disposed within the housing; a circuit board electrically connected to the power supply and the laser diode, the circuit board configured to regulate operation of the laser diode; a fan disposed within the housing and electrically connected to the circuit board; an air duct system within the housing configured to direct airflow from the air intake to the exhaust vent; and a cartridge containing a pesticidal formulation and configured for insertion into the cartridge slot and positioning in proximity to the laser diode and the heat sink; wherein the circuit board is configured to control the laser diode to induce a phase transition of the pesticidal formulation and to activate the fan to facilitate airflow through the air duct system for dissemination of the pesticidal formulation.

2. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said housing comprises: a removable cover configured to block laser light from escaping said housing.

3. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said power supply comprises: at least one rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

4. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said laser diode has: a wavelength of from 405 nm to 488 nm.

5. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said cartridge comprises: a substrate impregnated with a liquid pesticidal formulation.

6. The insect control device of claim 5, wherein said substrate comprises: an evaporation wick.

7. The insect control device of claim 5, wherein said substrate comprises: solid crystals doped with a pesticidal agent.

8. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said fan is configured to: generate a low-pressure region above said cartridge.12 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 259. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said circuit board is further configured to: control a duty cycle of said laser diode to adjust a vaporization rate of said pesticidal formulation.

10. The insect control device of claim 1, further comprising: a battery level indicator electrically connected to said circuit board.

11. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said air duct system comprises: cool air intake slots and convection-enhancing air vents formed in said housing.

12. The insect control device of claim 1, wherein said heat sink comprises: a cylindrical heat sink surrounding said cartridge and configured to utilize waste heat produced by said laser diode to assist in the phase transition of said pesticidal formulation.

13. A method for controlling insects using a laser-powered insect control device, the method comprising: providing a housing having a cartridge slot, at least one air intake, and at least one exhaust vent; inserting a cartridge containing a pesticidal formulation into the cartridge slot, the cartridge being positioned in proximity to a laser diode and a heat sink disposed within the housing; activating a power supply disposed within the housing to supply electrical energy to a circuit board electrically connected to the laser diode and a fan; regulating, by the circuit board, the operation of the laser diode to induce a phase transition of the pesticidal formulation; activating the fan to generate airflow through an air duct system within the housing, the air duct system being configured to direct airflow from the air intake to the exhaust vent; and disseminating the pesticidal formulation into the surrounding environment through the exhaust vent.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the step of inserting the cartridge comprises: positioning a cartridge containing a substrate impregnated with a liquid pesticidal formulation in proximity to the laser diode and the heat sink.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the step of regulating the operation of the laser diode comprises:13 | P a g e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25controlling a duty cycle of the laser diode to adjust a vaporization rate of the pesticidal formulation.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the step of activating the fan comprises: generating a low-pressure region above the cartridge to facilitate dissemination of the pesticidal formulation.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the air duct system comprises: cool air intake slots and convection-enhancing air vents formed in the housing.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the heat sink comprises: a cylindrical heat sink surrounding the cartridge and configured to utilize waste heat produced by the laser diode to assist in the phase transition of the pesticidal formulation.

19. The method of claim 13, further comprising: displaying a battery level indicator electrically connected to the circuit board.

20. An apparatus for insect control comprising: a housing having a front side, a cartridge slot formed through the front side, a power supply compartment, a circuit board compartment, and a removable cover positioned to enclose the power supply compartment and the circuit board compartment; a laser diode positioned within the housing and aligned with the cartridge slot; a cartridge containing a pesticidal formulation, the cartridge configured for placement through the cartridge slot and positioning above the laser diode; a power supply disposed in the power supply compartment; a circuit board disposed in the circuit board compartment and electrically connected to the power supply and the laser diode, the circuit board configured to regulate current, voltage, and duty cycle of the laser diode; a fan mounted within the housing and electrically coupled to the power supply and the circuit board, the fan configured to be activated simultaneously with the laser diode; a fan duct configured to direct air from outside the housing into the housing; and air ducts formed within the housing and positioned to receive air from the fan duct and enhance convection upon activation of the fan, wherein the laser diode is configured to vaporize or sublimate the pesticidal formulation in the cartridge and the fan and air ducts are configured to facilitate dissemination of the pesticidal formulation into the surrounding environment.14 | P a e22085585.vl -8 / 4 / 25

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