Monitoring arthropods

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to monitoring arthropods on the basis of captured images. The subject matter of the present disclosure comprises a device, a system, and a method.

Description

[0001] BYC240205 Foreign Countries

[0002] Monitoring arthropods

[0003] TECHNICAL AREA

[0004] The present revelation deals with the monitoring of arthropods based on image recordings.

[0005] The subject matter of the present disclosure is a device, a system and a method.

[0006] INTRODUCTION

[0007] Approximately two-thirds of currently known animal species belong to the arthropods (phylum Arthropoda), 85% of which are insects. A significant proportion of arthropods are phytophagous: these animals feed on plants and can impair growth, cause damage through sucking and feeding, and transmit viral diseases. This can lead to, for example, considerable losses in yield and quality in crop cultivation.

[0008] In modern agriculture, the detection and identification of pests within agricultural areas plays an important role.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] This revelation addresses these and other aspects.

[0011] A first object of the present disclosure is a device for monitoring arthropods comprising: a camera, wherein the camera is directed towards a collecting area for arthropods, a self-illuminating surface for attracting the arthropods, wherein the collecting area includes the self-illuminating surface or at least part of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the self-illuminating surface hits the self-illuminating surface.

[0012] Another subject of the present disclosure is a system for monitoring arthropods comprising: a camera, wherein the camera is directed towards a collection area for arthropods, and a self-illuminating surface for attracting the arthropods.

[0013] Another subject of the present disclosure is a method for monitoring arthropods comprising:

[0014] Providing a collection area for arthropods,

[0015] Providing a camera,

[0016] Aligning the camera with the collection area,

[0017] Providing a self-illuminating surface to attract arthropods,

[0018] Attracting an arthropod to the collection area using the self-illuminating surface, generating an image of the collection area or a part thereof including the arthropod.

[0019] DETAILED REVELATION

[0020] The subject matter of this disclosure will be explained in more detail below, without distinguishing between the subject matter of this disclosure (device, system, process). Rather, the following explanations are intended to apply analogously to all subject matter of the disclosure, regardless of the context in which they are described (device, system, process).

[0021] If the present description or the claims specify steps in a sequence, this does not necessarily mean that the disclosure is limited to the specified sequence. Rather, it is conceivable that the steps could also be carried out in a different sequence or even in parallel with one another, unless, for example, one step builds upon another, which requires that the building step be carried out subsequently (this will become clear in the specific case). The specified sequences are therefore exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] The subject matter of this disclosure is further explained in some places with reference to drawings. These drawings depict specific embodiments with specific features and combinations of features, primarily for illustrative purposes; this disclosure should not be understood as being limited to the features and combinations of features shown in the drawings. Furthermore, statements made in the description of the drawings with regard to features and combinations of features are intended to be generally applicable, that is, transferable to other embodiments and not limited to the embodiments shown.

[0023] The article "ein" means "one or more," unless preceded by "nur" or "lemiglich." The same applies analogously to the article "eine."

[0024] The expressions “based on” and “based on” mean “at least partially based on” unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0025] The term “or” is not to be understood as an exclusive “or”, i.e. the expression “A or B” includes “A”, “B” as well as “A and B”.

[0026] The terms used in this disclosure have the meaning they have in the prior art, in particular in the prior art cited in this disclosure.

[0027] One subject of the present disclosure is a device.

[0028] The device is used to monitor arthropods in a specific area. This area could be a crop area, such as an agricultural field.

[0029] The area can be located outdoors; however, it can also be in a polytunnel (film greenhouse) or a greenhouse.

[0030] The area can be, comprise, or include a field for cultivating crops. It can consist of or comprise multiple fields for cultivating crops. The area can border one or more fields for cultivating crops.

[0031] The term "cultivated plant" refers to a plant that is intentionally grown as a crop through human intervention. The term encompasses any plant that is deliberately cultivated and grown by humans for food, feed, fiber, timber, fragrances, medicinal, hygienic, and / or other economic purposes. These plants are typically specifically selected and managed to produce a yield or harvest and can include a wide variety of species, such as cereals, fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, and fiber crops. Parts of the cultivated crop may be suitable for human and / or animal consumption. Ornamental plants and algae also fall under the definition of "cultivated plant."

[0032] The term "crop" also includes cover crops. A cover crop is a plant primarily used to control soil erosion, fertility, quality, water, weeds, pests, diseases, biodiversity, and / or wildlife. Cover crops are generally not grown for direct harvest but benefit the soil and / or subsequent crops. They are typically planted during the off-season and / or between regular crop plantings. Cover crops can help prevent soil erosion, improve soil health, increase organic matter content, suppress weeds, and / or reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and / or pesticides. Furthermore, they can promote biodiversity, provide habitat for beneficial insects, and / or contribute to overall sustainable agricultural practices.Common cover crops include pulses such as clover and vetch, grasses such as rye and oats, and various other species, depending on the specific agricultural objectives and / or local conditions.

[0033] The area may be, encompass, border, or be part of a plantation. The area may be, encompass, border, or be part of a forest or park.

[0034] The area can be, encompass, border, or be part of a wildflower strip. A wildflower strip is a deliberately created strip on or adjacent to agricultural land, typically planted with a specific mixture of native wildflowers, herbs, and / or sometimes cereal crops. These strips offer numerous benefits for both the environment and agriculture. Wildflower strips provide habitat, food, and / or nesting sites for a variety of animals, especially insects such as bees, bumblebees, and butterflies, but also for birds and small mammals. The increase in biodiversity strengthens the ecological balance. The insects living in the wildflower strips can be important pollinators for surrounding agricultural crops as well as for wild plants. An increased number of pollinators can lead to improved harvest quality and quantity.Flowering strips can encourage the establishment of beneficial organisms, such as certain insect species that naturally regulate pests. This can reduce the need for chemical pesticides and thus contribute to a healthier ecosystem. The plants in the flowering strips can help stabilize the soil and / or protect it from erosion. Furthermore, by acting as green manure and introducing organic matter into the soil, they can improve soil structure and fertility.

[0035] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the area is located in or near a field for cultivating crops. "Near" can mean that the area is situated at a distance from a field boundary that is no greater than, for example, 1 meter, 5 meters, 10 meters, 20 meters, 50 meters, 100 meters, or 500 meters.

[0036] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the area is located in a greenhouse.

[0037] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the area is located in a foil tunnel.

[0038] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the area is part of a city or urban region.

[0039] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the area is located in a non-urban area, such as a nature reserve, a park, a forest and / or another biome.

[0040] “Arthropods” are a diverse group of invertebrate animals belonging to the phylum Arthropoda.

[0041] Arthropods play an important role in ecosystems as pollinators, decomposers, and / or as part of the food web. They can also be of economic importance, both beneficial (e.g., pollination, silk production) and detrimental (e.g., as pests in agriculture, vectors of diseases). Arthropods are classified into several groups (subphyla and classes), including insects and arachnids.

[0042] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the term "arthropods" refers exclusively to insects and arachnids.

[0043] In another version of the present disclosure, the term "arthropods" refers exclusively to insects.

[0044] In another version of the present disclosure, the term refers to

[0045] "Arthropods" refers exclusively to adult insects.

[0046] In another version of the present disclosure, the term refers to

[0047] "Arthropods" refers exclusively to insects in the form of caterpillars.

[0048] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the term "arthropods" refers exclusively to arachnids.

[0049] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the term refers to

[0050] "Arthropods" exclusively on mites.

[0051] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the term refers to

[0052] "Arthropods" refers exclusively to flying arthropods, i.e., arthropods that can fly (winged arthropods).

[0053] In another version of the present disclosure, the term "arthropods" refers exclusively to pests of crops.

[0054] The term "monitoring" usually means that, with the aid of the device of the present disclosure (possibly in combination with other means), the presence of one or more arthropods in an area (e.g. in a field for the cultivation of crops) can be detected.

[0055] The device includes one camera. It is possible that the device includes multiple cameras, e.g., two, three, four, or more than four.

[0056] A "camera" is a device or system designed to capture and / or record images of objects and / or phenomena. A camera uses, for example, electromagnetic radiation, sound waves, and / or other physical processes that can be visually represented. The camera converts received signals (e.g., optical and / or acoustic) into other signals (e.g., electrical) and / or data that can be stored, processed, displayed, and / or transmitted. The term "camera" encompasses devices that operate with all media and / or technologies, including analog and digital, optical, electronic, chemical, and / or other methods of image acquisition.The term "camera" encompasses a wide range of devices including, but not limited to, still cameras, video cameras, thermal imaging cameras, radar systems, ultrasound imaging devices, electron microscopes and all future technologies that can perform the function of image acquisition.

[0057] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one camera is an optical camera.

[0058] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one camera is a digital camera.

[0059] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one camera is a digital camera that electrically generates two-dimensional images from light using one or more image sensors. These are typically semiconductor-based image sensors such as CCD (charge-coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) sensors. Optical elements such as lenses, apertures, and the like serve to achieve the sharpest possible image of arthropods in the collecting area on the image sensor. A digital camera is configured to generate digital images.

[0060] Digital images can be processed, edited, and reproduced using computer systems and programs, as well as converted into standardized data formats such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group graphics format), PNG (Portable Network Graphics), or SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics). Digital images can be visualized using suitable display devices, such as computer monitors, projectors, and / or printers.

[0061] The camera typically includes a power supply unit. This could be, for example, a battery. It is also possible for a separate power supply unit to be present, independent of the camera itself, which can supply the camera with electrical power (external power supply unit). Such an external power supply unit can be used instead of, or in addition to, the camera's own power supply unit. Such an external power supply unit can also include one or more solar cells and / or fuel cells.

[0062] The camera is pointed at a collection area. In other words, the camera is positioned so that it can take one or more pictures of a collection area or part of it. In other words, a picture taken by the camera shows a collection area or part of it.

[0063] In the case of multiple cameras, the cameras can be directed towards different sub-areas of a collection area and / or towards different collection areas and / or capture one or more collection areas from different perspectives.

[0064] A foraging area is an area that can be visited by arthropods. This can be a flat surface, such as a board, map, or similar object. It can be the bottom of a container. It can be a liquid in a container. It can be a part of a plant, such as a leaf, fruit, or other plant part.

[0065] In the case of multiple collection areas, it is possible that these are oriented in different directions and / or are intended for different arthropods.

[0066] One or more collection areas can be provided by the device of the present disclosure. In other words, the device of the present disclosure can include one or more collection areas (e.g., two, three, four, or more than four).

[0067] However, one or more collection areas can also be independent of the device of the present disclosure.

[0068] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the collecting area is part of a trapping device for arthropods. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the device of the present disclosure is such a trapping device or a component thereof, or the device of the present disclosure comprises such a trapping device.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the catching device comprises a container filled with a liquid, e.g. a catching tray, as described, for example, in W02020 / 058175A1, W02020 / 058I70AI, WO2021 / 213824A1 or WO2022 / 243150A1.

[0070] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the catching device comprises a surface provided with an adhesive, as described, for example, in WO2023 / 043871A1, WO2018 / 131853A1 or W02004 / 095919A2.

[0071] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the trapping device comprises a tent-like frame that defines an interior space into which arthropods can enter. Such trapping devices are also known as delta traps (see, e.g., WO2018 / 078638A1); however, they can have shapes other than that of a prism (see, e.g., EP24206951.6).

[0072] The collection area can include means for immobilizing arthropods. This could be, for example, an adhesive (e.g., glue) to which arthropods can adhere. It could also be a liquid (e.g., water). A substance may be added to the liquid that reduces its surface tension (e.g., a surfactant in the case of water).

[0073] In a further embodiment of the present disclosure, only means are used to immobilize arthropods that restrict the movement of the arthropods for a limited period of time and not permanently.

[0074] The collection area can be a collection surface or comprise one. Such a collection surface may be coated with an adhesive to immobilize arthropods, i.e., render them unable to move. The collection surface may be flat (planar) or curved. The collection surface may include one or more kinks that divide the collection surface into different sub-areas.

[0075] In one embodiment, the collecting surface is flat. Such a flat collecting surface can be triangular, quadrilateral (e.g., rectangular or square), pentagonal, hexagonal, or generally "-gonal," where n is an integer greater than two. Such a flat collecting surface can also be round or elliptical, or have another shape.

[0076] In one embodiment, the collecting surface is flat and rectangular, with the corners possibly being rounded, and extends perpendicular to the direction of gravity in the case of a device placed and / or erected and / or positioned in an area.

[0077] The device includes a self-illuminating surface. The device can include several self-illuminating surfaces, e.g., two, three, four, or more than four.

[0078] "Self-luminous" means that the surface emits electromagnetic radiation. "Emission" means that the radiation emitted by the self-luminous surface is not caused, or not exclusively caused, by reflection, scattering, and / or diffraction of electromagnetic radiation incident on the self-luminous surface.

[0079] Electromagnetic radiation can be monochromatic or polychromatic. A self-luminous surface can emit electromagnetic radiation of a single wavelength; it can emit electromagnetic radiation of several (different) wavelengths. In the case of multiple wavelengths, these can combine to form a continuum or multiple continua; the electromagnetic radiation can also comprise a plurality of wavelengths separated by other wavelengths not present in the electromagnetic radiation. Mixed forms are also possible.

[0080] In one embodiment, the electromagnetic radiation comprises one or more wavelengths in the visible spectral range (380 nm to 780 nm) and / or in the ultraviolet range (100 nm to 380 nm) and / or in the infrared range (780 nm to 1000 pm).

[0081] The self-luminous property could be phosphorescence. In other words, a phosphorescent material can be used to create the self-luminous property.

[0082] Such a material could be, for example, zinc sulfide (ZnS), optionally doped with copper.

[0083] Such a material may be, for example, strontium aluminate (SrALCL) optionally doped with europium and / or dysprosium.

[0084] Such a material could be, for example, calcium sulfide (CaS), optionally doped with bismuth. Such a material could be, for example, yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), optionally doped with cerium.

[0085] Such a material could, for example, be or comprise strontium magnesium silicate (Sr2MgSi2O?), optionally doped with europium.

[0086] Further phosphorescent materials are disclosed in scientific articles and patent applications / patents (see, e.g., W02005 / 044944A1, WO2011 / 066415A2, W02003 / 018653A1, EP0325825A1, W02010 / 024301 Al

[0087] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-illuminating surface is provided by a plastic or composite material which is coated with a phosphorescent material and / or into which a phosphorescent material is incorporated (see e.g.: WO2016136012A 1 , W02020 / 044027 A 1 , WO 1996 / 26991 A 1 ).

[0088] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-luminous effect of the self-luminous surface is based solely on prior irradiation of the self-luminous surface with electromagnetic radiation (usually with electromagnetic radiation of a shorter wavelength than that emitted by the self-luminous surface). In other words, the self-luminous surface emits electromagnetic radiation without requiring any energy input during the time interval in which the self-luminous surface emits electromagnetic radiation to cause and / or maintain the emission. In other words, the self-luminous effect is based solely on phosphorescence.

[0089] The self-illuminating property could be electroluminescence.

[0090] Electroluminescence is a process in which a material or composite material is stimulated to emit electromagnetic radiation by applying an electric field or an electric voltage.

[0091] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-illuminating surface is provided by an electroluminescent element (see e.g. W02004 / 048395A1, WO2016 / 119533A1, US20090104472A 1 , W02004 / 048395 A 1 ).

[0092] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-illuminating surface is provided by an electroluminescent film. In such an electroluminescent film, an electroluminescent material can be embedded between two electrically insulated conductive layers (electrodes). One electrode can be transparent; for example, it can consist of or comprise a plastic film coated with indium tin oxide. The second film can reflect electromagnetic radiation. The overall thickness of the described structure is typically less than 1 mm. The electroluminescent film can comprise the following layers in the order mentioned: a protective plastic film, a transparent electrically conductive film, insulating material with embedded electroluminescent material, a metal film, and a protective plastic film.

[0093] The electroluminescent material can be zinc sulfide, which may be doped with manganese, gold, silver, copper, and / or gallium. Such an electroluminescent film can be made to glow by applying a sinusoidal alternating voltage. Depending on the design, the operating voltage is typically between 30 and 300 volts at a frequency between 50 Hz and 4 kHz.

[0094] The self-illuminating surface can be provided by an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). In one embodiment, such an OLED is a flexible film composite.

[0095] An OLED typically consists of several layers, each performing specific functions. An OLED usually includes a substrate (base). This is the layer on which the OLED is built. It can be made of various materials, including plastic and / or glass.

[0096] An anode (positive electrode) is typically located on or above the substrate. The anode layer is usually transparent. Its function is to remove electrons (add holes) when a current is applied. An OLED also typically includes a hole injection layer. This layer injects holes into the hole transport layer. The hole transport layer is usually located next to the anode and transports holes from the anode to the emission layer. It assists in the recombination of holes and electrons.

[0097] The emission layer is the heart of the OLED. It comprises organic molecules or polymers that emit light when an electric current is applied. The color of the light depends on the type of organic material used.

[0098] An electron transport layer carries electrons from the cathode to the emission layer, where they can recombine with the holes to produce light.

[0099] The cathode (negative electrode) injects electrons when a current flows through the OLED. In some OLEDs, the cathode can be designed to enhance light emission.

[0100] When a voltage is applied across the OLED, electrons are injected from the cathode and holes (positive charges) from the anode. The electrons and holes meet in the emission layer, where they recombine and release energy in the form of light. This process is a form of electroluminescence. The specific materials used in the emission layer determine the color of the emitted light.

[0101] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-illuminating area is part of or comprises the collecting area. In other words, the collecting area comprises a material or composite that is self-illuminating (for example, phosphorescent and / or electroluminescent).

[0102] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-illuminating surface is a surface independent of the collecting area, i.e., it is not part of the collecting area.

[0103] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the self-illuminating surface falls onto the collecting area.

[0104] In one embodiment, the self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that during the day, under cloudless skies, electromagnetic radiation from the sun strikes the self-illuminating surface (e.g., to excite a phosphorescent material to phosphorescence) and / or at night emits at least part of the electromagnetic radiation perpendicular to gravity.

[0105] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a self-illuminating surface or several self-illuminating surfaces (e.g. two or three or four or more than four) are arranged and / or aligned such that a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the self-illuminating surface(s) falls on the collecting area from different directions.

[0106] The self-illuminating surface can be flat (planar) or curved. The self-illuminating surface can have one or more kinks, which divide the self-illuminating surface into several (different) sub-surfaces.

[0107] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, one or more self-illuminating surfaces define a volume in which one or more collection areas are arranged, wherein the volume does not isolate the one or more collection areas from the outside world (the area outside the volume) through the one or more self-illuminating surfaces, but arthropods can enter / fly into the volume through one or more openings in the one or more surfaces and / or between the surfaces and thus reach the one or more collection areas.

[0108] In one embodiment, two or more (e.g., three, four, or more than four) self-illuminating surfaces are arranged at a distance from each other and enclose one or more collection areas. In other words, the collection area is surrounded by at least two self-illuminating surfaces.

[0109] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the collecting area is planar and at least one self-illuminating surface extends at an angle of 45° to 135° to the collecting area.

[0110] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the collecting area is planar and at least one self-illuminating surface extends at an angle of 90° to 180° to the collecting area.

[0111] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the collecting area is planar and at least one self-illuminating surface extends at an angle of 100° to 170° to the collecting area.

[0112] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the collecting area is planar and at least two self-illuminating surfaces extend at an angle of 45° to 135° or at an angle of 90° to 180° or at an angle of 100° to 170° to the collecting area and enclose the collecting area.

[0113] In one embodiment, four self-illuminating surfaces form two sets of two opposing faces of a cuboid in which two opposing faces are missing. The collection area can be located within the cuboid. The collection area can be planar and parallel to the missing faces (and thus imaginary faces) of the cuboid. The collection area can lie in the plane of one of the missing faces. The self-illuminating surfaces can emit electromagnetic radiation inwards (into the volume of the cuboid).

[0114] In one embodiment, two or more (e.g., three or four or more than four) self-illuminating surfaces form two or more lateral surfaces of a truncated pyramid, wherein the self-illuminating surfaces emit at least partially electromagnetic radiation inwards (i.e., into the volume of the truncated pyramid).

[0115] In one embodiment, the collection area is arranged within the truncated pyramid and extends parallel to the base and / or top surface of the truncated pyramid.

[0116] The truncated pyramid can be arranged and / or oriented such that the collecting area is in the plane of the base and the lateral surfaces extend away from the base, against the direction of gravity, with the truncated pyramid tapering from the base towards the top surface.

[0117] The truncated pyramid can also be arranged in reverse (inverted truncated pyramid): the collecting area is located in the plane of the base and the lateral surfaces extend away from the base, against the direction of gravity, with the truncated pyramid widening from the base towards the top surface.

[0118] The base and / or top surface of the truncated pyramid can be triangular, quadrilateral (e.g. square or rectangular), pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, nine-sided, decagonal or generally «-angular, where n is an integer greater than two.

[0119] The truncated pyramid can be a regular truncated pyramid or an oblique truncated pyramid.

[0120] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the self-illuminating surface forms the lateral surface of a truncated cone, in which the base and / or the top surface may be absent. The self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that it emits electromagnetic radiation inwards (i.e., into the volume of the truncated cone).

[0121] The collection surface can be located within the truncated cone. The collection surface can be planar and arranged parallel to the base and / or top surface. The collection surface can be arranged in the plane of the base, with the truncated cone being arranged and / or designed such that it extends away from the collection surface, tapering or widening in the process (inverted truncated cone).

[0122] In the case of a truncated cone, the base and the top surface are each circular; the self-illuminating surface can also form the lateral surface of a cone-like body where the base and / or the top surface is not circular, but, for example, elliptical. Furthermore, the base and top surfaces do not have to have the same shape; they can have different shapes.

[0123] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one self-illuminating surface has the shape of a paraboloid or a part thereof. Such a paraboloid can, for example, be an elliptical paraboloid or a hyperbolic paraboloid.

[0124] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one self-illuminating surface has the shape of a single-sheet hyperboloid or a part thereof.

[0125] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, at least one self-illuminating surface has the shape of an ellipsoid of revolution or a part thereof.

[0126] The self-illuminating surface can have a size of at least 20 cm. 2 exhibit. In the case of multiple self-illuminating surfaces, each of the self-illuminating surfaces can have a size of at least 20 cm. 2 exhibit.

[0127] In one embodiment, the size of each existing self-illuminating surface is in the range of 20 cm. 2 up to 2 m 2 .

[0128] In another embodiment, the size of each existing self-illuminating surface is in the range of 30 cm. 2 up to 1.8 m 2 .

[0129] In another embodiment, the size of each existing self-illuminating surface is in the range of 50 cm². 2 up to 1 m 2 .

[0130] In another embodiment, the size of each existing self-illuminating surface is in the range of 100 cm². 2 up to 5000 cm 2 .

[0131] In another embodiment, the size of each existing self-illuminating surface is in the range of 100 cm². 2 up to 4000 cm 2 .

[0132] In another embodiment, the size of each existing self-illuminating surface is in the range of 100 cm². 2 up to 3000 cm 2 .

[0133] In another embodiment, the size of each existing self-illuminating surface is in the range of 100 cm². 2 up to 2000 cm 2 .

[0134] If the self-illuminating surface is an OLED or another unit that requires electrical power to emit electromagnetic radiation, it can be powered via the camera's power supply unit and / or an external power supply unit.

[0135] The device can therefore include an external (i.e., independent of the camera) power supply unit such as a battery (and optionally a solar cell or wind turbine to charge the battery).

[0136] The device can comprise one or more mirror surfaces. Such a mirror surface can be coated with a metal (e.g., silver). Such a mirror surface can be arranged and / or oriented such that at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface strikes the mirror surface. Such a mirror surface can be arranged and / or oriented such that at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface strikes the mirror surface and is reflected at least partially by the mirror surface onto the collecting area and / or perpendicular to gravity.

[0137] The self-illuminating surface can be a component of the device described in the present disclosure. It is also conceivable that the self-illuminating surface is an independent unit, existing separately from the device and thus not a component of the device. Likewise, it is possible that one or more self-illuminating surfaces are component(s) of the device and one or more further self-illuminating surfaces are not component(s) of the device.

[0138] One or more self-illuminating surfaces, which are not part of the device of the present disclosure, are, however, usually components of the system of the present disclosure. Such a system of the present disclosure comprises: a camera, wherein the camera is directed towards a collecting area for arthropods, and a self-illuminating surface.

[0139] The system of the present disclosure therefore differs from the device of the present disclosure in that the self-illuminating surface and the camera are independent units; the self-illuminating surface and the camera are not components of a single device.

[0140] It is possible that the system includes more than one camera (e.g., two, three, four, or more than four).

[0141] It is possible that the system includes more than one self-illuminating surface (e.g., two, three, four, or more than four).

[0142] The collection area can be a component of the system of the present revelation. It is possible that more than one collection area exists (e.g., two, three, four, or more than four); it is possible that the system of the present revelation includes more than one collection area.

[0143] The system of the present disclosure may include a trapping device for arthropods.

[0144] Such a catching device may include a container filled with a liquid, e.g. a collection tray, as described, for example, in W02020 / 058175A1, W02020 / 058170A1, WO2021 / 213824A1 or WO2022 / 243150A1.

[0145] Such a catching device may include a surface coated with an adhesive, as described, for example, in W02023 / 043871 A 1 , WO2018 / 131853 A 1 or W02004 / 095919A2.

[0146] Such a trapping device may include a tent-like frame that defines an interior space into which arthropods can enter. Such trapping devices are also known as delta traps (see, e.g., WO2018 / 078638A1); however, they may have shapes other than a prism (see, e.g., EP24206951.6).

[0147] The system of the present disclosure can comprise one or more stands (e.g., in the form of a tripod) to which one or more self-illuminating surfaces can be attached and / or with the aid of which one or more self-illuminating surfaces can be arranged and / or aligned relative to the collection area. Such a stand can also be used to mount the camera and / or the collection area and / or to align the camera relative to the collection area and / or the collection area relative to the camera.

[0148] The system of the present disclosure may include an (external) power supply unit, e.g. to supply the camera with electrical energy and / or to cause the emission of electromagnetic radiation from the self-illuminating surface.

[0149] Another subject of the present disclosure is a process. The process comprises the following steps:

[0150] Providing a collection area for arthropods, providing a camera,

[0151] Aligning the camera with the collection area,

[0152] Providing a self-illuminating surface,

[0153] Attracting an arthropod into the collection area using the self-illuminating surface, creating an image of the collection area or a part thereof encompassing the arthropod using the camera.

[0154] The self-illuminating surface can be arranged and / or oriented in such a way that flying arthropods flying over the collection area perceive the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the self-illuminating surface, are attracted by it, and thus enter the collection area.

[0155] The collection area can include the self-illuminating surface; it is also conceivable that the self-illuminating surface is independent of the collection area. If the self-illuminating surface is part of the collection area, the step "attracting an arthropod into the collection area using the self-illuminating surface" usually involves illuminating the self-illuminating surface and orienting it so that arthropods intended to be attracted by the self-illuminating surface perceive it. If the self-illuminating surface is not part of the collection area, the step "attracting an arthropod into the collection area using the self-illuminating surface" can involve orienting the self-illuminating surface so that it illuminates the collection area.“Attracting an arthropod to the collection area using the self-illuminating surface” can also mean waiting until one or more arthropods have entered the collection area.

[0156] The camera can be configured or caused by a control unit to produce one or more images of the collection area or a part thereof at defined times and / or at defined time intervals and / or when defined events occur.

[0157] The camera typically includes a data storage device in which images are stored and from which images can be retrieved. It is possible that the device and / or system of the present disclosure includes a data storage device for storing images that is independent of the camera.

[0158] The device and / or system of the present disclosure may include a control unit.

[0159] Such a control unit is typically used to control the electrical / electronic components and / or to process signals and / or data. The control unit usually includes a processor, program memory, and main memory. The control unit may also include non-volatile data storage, for example, implemented as semiconductor memory, which can be used, for example, to store images, measurements, analysis models, and / or analysis results. The control unit may be configured to determine the device's position using a GPS receiver. The control unit may be configured to use the camera to capture images of the collection area. The control unit may be configured to instruct the camera to capture images of the collection area.The control unit can be configured to cause the camera to take an image of the collection area at defined times and / or intervals and / or upon the occurrence of defined events. The control unit can be configured to transmit images, measurements, analysis results, geocoordinates, and / or other information to a separate computer system via a transmitter. The control unit can be configured to receive images from the camera and / or retrieve images from the camera and / or read images from a data storage device, which may be an integral part of the device.

[0160] The control unit can be configured to detect, locate, count, and / or identify arthropods depicted in images. This can be achieved, for example, using a trained machine learning model. Such a machine learning model can be configured and trained to detect, locate, count, and / or identify arthropods depicted in images. Details on the automated detection, localization, counting and / or identification of arthropods in image captures are described in publications on this topic (see, for example: DCK Amarathunga et al.: Methods of Insect Image Capture and Classification: A Systematic Literature Review, Smart Agricultural Technology, Volume 1, 2021, 100023; C. Zhu et al.: Insect Identification and Counting in Stored Grain: Image Processing Approach and Application Embedded in Smartphones, Mob. Inf. Syst. 2018, 5491706: 1-5, W02020058175A1, W02020058170A1).

[0161] The device may include a transmitting unit to send information over a network to a separate computer system. This information may include, for example, images of the collection area. This information may also include the results of an analysis of an image, such as the number of arthropods depicted in an image, identified species, and / or messages regarding the status of the device.

[0162] The transmitting unit can be designed to transmit information via a mobile communications network (e.g., GSM: Global System for Mobile Communications, GPRS: General Packet Radio Service, UMTS: Universal Mobile Telecommunications System, LTE: Long Term Evolution), via a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network), via Bluetooth, via DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications), via a Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN or LPN) such as a NarrowBand IoT network, and / or via a combination of different transmission methods.

[0163] The transmitting unit can be designed to transmit information via a short-range radio connection (e.g., Bluetooth) to a base station, from which the information is then forwarded via cable and / or a long-range radio connection (e.g., a mobile network).

[0164] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the transmitting unit comprises a modem and an antenna for transmitting information via a GSM, GPRS, 2G, 3G, LTE, 4G, 5G, 6G mobile network or via another mobile network.

[0165] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to cause the camera to produce an image of the collection area at defined times and / or at defined time intervals and / or upon the occurrence of defined events, optionally to compress the image, and to cause the transmitting unit to transmit the optionally compressed image to a separate computer system via a network connection (e.g. at least partially via a mobile network).

[0166] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit is configured to cause the camera to produce an image of the collection area at defined times and / or at defined time intervals and / or upon the occurrence of defined events, to analyze the image in order to detect, locate, identify and / or count one or more arthropods in the image, to store the results of the analysis in a data storage device and / or (optionally together with the image or a compressed version thereof) to transmit the results to a separate computer system via a network connection (e.g. at least partially via a mobile network) using the transmitting unit.

[0167] Further embodiments are disclosed below. These embodiments are not necessarily subject matter that falls under patent protection. As is known to those skilled in the art in patent law, the scope of protection of a patent is defined by the patent claims. The description and the drawings are to be used to interpret the patent claims. The embodiments described below are part of the description and not of the patent claims. The following embodiments are intended to give the reader guidance on how various features described in this disclosure can be combined. They are therefore part of the present technical teaching and should not be confused with the subject matter of the patent claims.

[0168] Other embodiments include:

[0169] Embodiment 1: A device for monitoring arthropods comprising: a camera, wherein the camera is directed towards a collection area for arthropods, at least one self-illuminating surface for attracting the arthropods.

[0170] Embodiment 2: The device according to embodiment 1, wherein the device includes the collecting area.

[0171] Embodiment 3: The device according to one of the embodiments, wherein the camera and the self-illuminating surface are components of the device.

[0172] Embodiment 4: A system for monitoring arthropods comprising: a camera, wherein the camera is directed towards a collection area for arthropods, at least one self-illuminating surface for attracting the arthropods.

[0173] Embodiment 5: The system according to embodiment 4, further comprising one or more tripods for attaching and / or aligning and / or positioning the camera, the at least one self-illuminating surface and / or the collection area.

[0174] Embodiment 6: The system according to one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the camera and the at least one self-illuminating surface are not common components of a device.

[0175] Embodiment 7: The system according to one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the camera and the at least one self-illuminating surface are independent devices.

[0176] Embodiment 8: A method for monitoring arthropods comprising:

[0177] Providing a collection area for arthropods,

[0178] Providing a camera,

[0179] Aligning the camera with the collection area,

[0180] Provide at least one self-illuminating surface,

[0181] Attracting an arthropod to the collection area using at least one self-illuminating surface,

[0182] Creating an image of the collection area or part thereof, encompassing the arthropod.

[0183] Embodiment 9: The method according to embodiment 8, further comprising:

[0184] Saving the image capture to a data storage device and / or outputting the image capture and / or transmitting the image capture to a separate computer system.

[0185] Embodiment 10: The method according to one of embodiments 8 or 9, further comprising: detecting and / or locating and / or identifying and / or counting one or more arthropods depicted in the image.

[0186] Embodiment 11: The method according to one of embodiments 8 to 10, comprising attracting the arthropod into the collection area:

[0187] To illuminate at least one self-illuminating surface.

[0188] Embodiment 12: The method according to one of embodiments 8 to 11, comprising attracting the arthropod into the collection area:

[0189] Aligning the at least one self-illuminating surface so that arthropods perceive the at least one self-illuminating surface.

[0190] Embodiment 13: The method according to one of embodiments 8 to 12, comprising attracting the arthropod into the collection area:

[0191] Aligning the at least one self-illuminating surface so that it illuminates the collection area. Embodiment 14: The method according to one of embodiments 8 to 13, wherein attracting the arthropod into the collection area comprises:

[0192] Wait until one or more arthropods have entered the collection area.

[0193] Embodiment 15: A use of a device according to one of embodiments 1 or 2 or of a system according to one of embodiments 3 to 7 for monitoring arthropods in an area.

[0194] Embodiment 16: The use according to embodiment 15, wherein the area is located outdoors.

[0195] Embodiment 17: Use according to one of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the area comprises at least part of an agriculturally used field.

[0196] Embodiment 18: Use according to one of embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the area comprises at least part of a field for the cultivation of crops.

[0197] Embodiment 19: Use according to one of embodiments 15 to 18, wherein the area borders one or more fields for the cultivation of crops.

[0198] Embodiment 20: The use according to embodiment 15, wherein the area comprises a foil tunnel.

[0199] Embodiment 21: The use according to embodiment 15, wherein the area comprises a greenhouse.

[0200] Embodiment 22: Use according to one of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the area is or comprises or borders a plantation.

[0201] Embodiment 23: The use according to one of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the area is or comprises or borders a forest.

[0202] Embodiment 24: Use according to one of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the area is, comprises, or adjoins a park.

[0203] Embodiment 25: The use according to one of embodiments 15 to 24, wherein the area is or comprises or borders a flowering strip.

[0204] Embodiment 26: Use according to one of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the area is an urban region.

[0205] Embodiment 27: Use according to one of embodiments 15 or 16, wherein the area is a nature reserve.

[0206] Embodiment 28: One of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the device and / or system further comprises a transmitting unit.

[0207] Embodiment 28: Embodiment 28, wherein the transmitting unit comprises a modem and an antenna for transmitting information via a GSM, GPRS, 2G, 3G, LTE, 4G, 5G, 6G mobile network or via another mobile network.

[0208] Embodiment 29: One of embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the device and / or the system further comprises a control unit, wherein the control unit is configured to cause the camera to produce an image of the collection area at defined times and / or at defined time intervals and / or upon the occurrence of defined events, optionally to compress the image, and to cause the transmitting unit to transmit the optionally compressed image via a network connection to a separate computer system.

[0209] Embodiment 30: One of embodiments 1 to 29, wherein the device and / or the system further comprises a power supply unit for supplying the camera and / or the at least one self-illuminating surface with electrical energy. Embodiment 31: Embodiment 30, further comprising a separate power supply unit independent of the camera.

[0210] Embodiment 32: One of embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the device and / or the system further comprises at least one mirror surface, wherein the at least one mirror surface is arranged and / or aligned such that a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface hits the at least one mirror surface.

[0211] Embodiment 33: One of embodiments 1 to 32, wherein the device and / or the system further comprises at least one mirror surface, wherein the at least one mirror surface is arranged and / or aligned such that a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface hits the at least one mirror surface and at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation is reflected by the mirror surface in the direction of the collecting area and / or perpendicular to gravity.

[0212] Embodiment 34: One of embodiments 1 to 33, wherein the collecting area comprises a flat surface, the surface being provided with an adhesive to immobilize arthropods.

[0213] Embodiment 35: One of embodiments 1 to 34, wherein the collecting area extends perpendicular to the direction of gravity.

[0214] Embodiment 36: One of embodiments 1 to 35, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface emits electromagnetic radiation.

[0215] Embodiment 37: Embodiment 36, wherein the electromagnetic radiation comprises one or more wavelengths in the visible spectral range and / or in the ultraviolet spectral range and / or in the infrared spectral range.

[0216] Embodiment 38: One of embodiments 1 to 37, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface emits electromagnetic radiation as a result of phosphorescence.

[0217] Embodiment 39: One of embodiments 1 to 38, wherein each of the at least one self-illuminating surface has a size in the range of 20 cm 2 up to 2 m 2 has.

[0218] Embodiment 40: One of embodiments 1 to 39, wherein each of the at least one self-illuminating surface has a size in the range of 100 cm²2 up to 2000 cm 2 has.

[0219] Embodiment 41: One of embodiments 1 to 40, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is part of or comprises the collecting area.

[0220] Embodiment 42: One of embodiments 1 to 41, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is a surface independent of the collecting area.

[0221] Embodiment 43: One of embodiments 1 to 42, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that at least a part of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface falls on the collecting area.

[0222] Embodiment 44: One of embodiments 1 to 43, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that during the day, under cloudless skies, electromagnetic radiation from the sun strikes the at least one self-illuminating surface and / or at night, at least a part of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface is emitted perpendicular to gravity.

[0223] Embodiment 45: One of embodiments 1 to 44, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that electromagnetic radiation emitted from the at least one self-illuminating surface falls on the collection area from different directions. Embodiment 46: One of embodiments 1 to 45, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface defines a volume in which the collection area is arranged.

[0224] Embodiment 47: Embodiment 46, wherein the collection area is not sealed off from the outside world by the at least one self-illuminating surface within the volume.

[0225] Embodiment 48: One of embodiments 1 to 47, wherein two or more self-illuminating surfaces are arranged at a distance from each other around the collecting area.

[0226] Embodiment 49: One of embodiments 1 to 48, wherein the collecting area is flat and the at least one self-illuminating surface extends at an angle of 45° to 135° to the collecting area.

[0227] Embodiment 50: One of embodiments 1 to 48, wherein the collecting area is flat and the at least one self-illuminating surface extends at an angle of 90° to 180° to the collecting area.

[0228] Embodiment 51: One of embodiments 1 to 48, wherein the collecting area is flat and the at least one self-illuminating surface extends at an angle of 100° to 170° to the collecting area.

[0229] Embodiment 52: One of embodiments 1 to 51, wherein four self-illuminating surfaces form two pairs of oppositely arranged surfaces of a cuboid in which the base and top surfaces are missing, wherein the collecting area is located in the cuboid.

[0230] Embodiment 53: One of embodiments 1 to 51, wherein two or more self-illuminating surfaces form two or more lateral surfaces of a truncated pyramid, wherein the self-illuminating surfaces emit at least partially electromagnetic radiation into the volume of the truncated pyramid, wherein the collecting area is arranged in the volume.

[0231] Embodiment 54: Embodiment 53, wherein the collecting area is located in the plane of the base of the truncated pyramid and the lateral surfaces extend away from the base, against the direction of gravity, wherein the truncated pyramid widens from the base towards the top surface of the truncated pyramid, the top surface comprising or being open.

[0232] Embodiment 55: Embodiment 53, wherein the collecting area is located in the plane of the base of the truncated pyramid and the lateral surfaces extend away from the base, against the direction of gravity, wherein the truncated pyramid tapers from the base towards the top surface of the truncated pyramid, the top surface comprising or being open.

[0233] Embodiment 56: One of embodiments 1 to 51, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface forms the lateral surface of a truncated cone, in which the base and / or the top surface may be absent, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that it emits electromagnetic radiation into the volume of the truncated cone, wherein the collecting area is arranged in the volume.

[0234] Embodiment 57: Embodiment 56, wherein the collecting area is arranged in the plane of the base of the truncated cone, wherein the truncated cone is arranged and / or designed such that it extends away from the collecting area and widens in the process.

[0235] Embodiment 58: One of embodiments 1 to 48, wherein at least one self-illuminating surface has the shape of a paraboloid or part thereof.

[0236] Embodiment 59: One of embodiments 1 to 48, wherein at least one self-illuminating surface has the shape of a single-sheet hyperboloid or a part thereof. Embodiment 60: One of embodiments 1 to 48, wherein at least one self-illuminating surface has the shape of an ellipsoid of revolution or a part thereof.

[0237] Embodiment 61: One of embodiments 1 to 60, wherein the camera is configured or caused by a control unit to produce one or more image recordings of the collection area or a part thereof at defined times and / or at defined time intervals and / or upon the occurrence of defined events.

[0238] Embodiment 62: One of embodiments 1 to 61, wherein the camera is or comprises an optical camera.

[0239] Embodiment 63: One of embodiments 1 to 62, wherein the camera is or comprises an optical digital camera.

[0240] Embodiment 64: One of embodiments 1 to 63, wherein the collecting area comprises a flat collecting surface, wherein the collecting surface is «-angular, where n is an integer greater than two.

[0241] Embodiment 65: One of embodiments 1 to 64, wherein the collecting area comprises a flat collecting surface, wherein the collecting surface is rectangular.

[0242] Embodiment 66: One of embodiments 1 to 65, wherein the collecting area comprises a flat collecting surface, the collecting surface being rectangular.

[0243] Embodiment 67: One of embodiments 1 to 66, wherein the collecting area comprises a flat collecting surface, the collecting surface being square.

[0244] Embodiment 68: One of embodiments 1 to 63, wherein the collecting area comprises a flat collecting surface, wherein the collecting surface is round.

[0245] Embodiment 69: One of embodiments 1 to 68, wherein self-illuminating means that at least one self-illuminating surface itself emits electromagnetic radiation.

[0246] Embodiment 70: One of embodiments 1 to 69, wherein self-luminous means that the radiation emitted by the self-luminous surface is not caused, or not exclusively caused, by reflection, scattering and / or diffraction of electromagnetic radiation falling on the self-luminous surface.

[0247] Embodiment 71: One of embodiments 1 to 70, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is provided by a phosphorescent material.

[0248] Embodiment 72: One of embodiments 1 to 71, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is provided by a plastic or composite material coated with a phosphorescent material.

[0249] Embodiment 73: One of embodiments 1 to 72, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is provided by a plastic or composite material in which a phosphorescent material is incorporated.

[0250] Embodiment 74: One of embodiments 1 to 70, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is provided by an organic light-emitting diode.

[0251] Embodiment 75: One of embodiments 1 to 70, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface emits electromagnetic radiation as a result of electroluminescence.

[0252] Embodiment 76: One of embodiments 1 to 75, where arthropods means exclusively insects and arachnids.

[0253] Embodiment 77: One of embodiments 1 to 76, where arthropods refers exclusively to insects. Embodiment 78: One of embodiments 1 to 77, where arthropods refers exclusively to adult insects.

[0254] Embodiment 79: One of embodiments 1 to 78, where arthropods refers exclusively to flying insects.

[0255] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of the device and / or system of the present disclosure.

[0256] A camera (10) is directed at a collection area (20). The collection area (20) is shown in perspective from the front. The collection area (20) comprises a rectangular collection surface that extends perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The direction of gravity is symbolized by the thick arrow.

[0257] The collection area is bordered by two self-illuminating surfaces (30-1, 30-2). These self-illuminating surfaces (30-1, 30-2) extend away from the collection area (20) against gravity at an angle α > 90°. The self-illuminating surfaces (30-1, 30-2) are planar.

[0258] Fig. 2 shows a further embodiment of the device and / or system of the present disclosure.

[0259] A camera (10) is directed at a collection area (20). The collection area (20) is shown in perspective from the front. The collection area (20) comprises a rectangular collection surface that extends perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The direction of gravity is symbolized by the thick arrow.

[0260] The collection area (20) is enclosed on the four sides of the rectangular collection surface by self-luminous surfaces (30-1, 30-2, 30-3, 30-4). The self-luminous surfaces (30-1, 30-2, 30-3, 30-4) are curved; this can be seen at least on the self-luminous surfaces (30-1) and (30-3).

[0261] Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of the device and / or system of the present disclosure.

[0262] A camera (10) is directed at a collection area (20). The collection area (20) is shown in perspective from the front. The collection area (20) comprises a rectangular collection surface that extends perpendicular to the direction of gravity. The direction of gravity is symbolized by the thick arrow.

[0263] The collection area (20) is located within the volume of an inverted truncated cone. The lateral surface of the truncated cone is formed by a self-illuminating surface (30). In Fig. 3, the self-illuminating surface (30) has been shown transparently to allow the collection area (20) to be seen; if the self-illuminating surface (30) were not transparent, the collection area (20) located within the inverted truncated cone would not be visible. The base and top surfaces of the inverted truncated cone are missing; arthropods can enter the interior of the inverted truncated cone and thus reach the collection area (20). The self-illuminating surface (30) is designed, for example, to emit electromagnetic radiation into the interior of the inverted truncated cone. Some of the electromagnetic radiation can escape through the opening formed by the missing base and attract arthropods.

Claims

Patent claims I. Device for monitoring arthropods comprising: a camera, wherein the camera is directed towards a collection area for arthropods, at least one self-illuminating surface for attracting the arthropods, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface emits electromagnetic radiation, wherein the electromagnetic radiation comprises one or more wavelengths in the visible and / or ultraviolet and / or infrared spectral range.

3. Device according to claim 2, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface emits electromagnetic radiation as a result of phosphorescence.

4. Device according to claim 2, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is provided by an organic light-emitting diode.

5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the at least one self-illuminating surfaces has a size in the range of 20 cm. 2 up to 2 m 2has.

6. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or aligned such that at least a part of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface falls on the collecting area.

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein two or more self-illuminating surfaces are arranged at a distance from each other around the collecting area.

8. Device according to claim 7, wherein the two or more self-illuminating surfaces are arranged and / or aligned such that electromagnetic radiation emitted from the two or more self-illuminating surfaces falls onto the collecting area from different directions.

9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface defines a volume in which the collection area is arranged, wherein the volume through the at least one self-illuminating surface does not isolate the collection area from the outside world.

10. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface has the shape of a truncated pyramid or a truncated cone or a paraboloid thereof or a single-sheet hyperboloid or a revolution ellipsoid. II. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein two or more self-illuminating surfaces form two or more lateral surfaces of a truncated pyramid, wherein the self-illuminating surfaces emit at least partially electromagnetic radiation into the volume of the truncated pyramid, wherein the collecting area is arranged in the volume, wherein the collecting surface is located in the plane of the base of the truncated pyramid and the lateral surfaces extend away from the base, against the direction of gravity.

12. Device according to claim 11, wherein the truncated pyramid widens from the base towards the top surface of the truncated pyramid, the top surface comprising or being open.

13. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface forms the lateral surface of a truncated cone, in which the base and / or the top surface may be absent, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface is arranged and / or oriented such that it emits electromagnetic radiation into the volume of the truncated cone, wherein the collecting surface is arranged in the volume, wherein the collecting surface is arranged in the plane of the base of the truncated cone, and wherein the truncated cone is arranged and / or designed such that it extends away from the collecting surface and widens in the process.

14. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising at least one mirror surface, wherein the at least one mirror surface is arranged and / or aligned such that a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the at least one self-illuminating surface hits the at least one mirror surface and at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation is reflected in the direction of the collecting area and / or perpendicular to gravity.

15. System for monitoring arthropods comprising: a camera, wherein the camera is directed towards a collection area for arthropods, at least one self-illuminating surface for attracting the arthropods, wherein the at least one self-illuminating surface emits electromagnetic radiation, wherein the electromagnetic radiation comprises one or more wavelengths in the visible and / or ultraviolet and / or infrared spectral range, wherein the camera and the at least one self-illuminating surface are independent devices or components of independent devices.

16. Method for monitoring arthropods in an area, the method comprising: Providing a device and / or system according to claims 1 to 15, Attracting an arthropod to the collection area using at least one self-illuminating surface, Creating an image of the collection area or part thereof encompassing the arthropod.

Images