Semi-Permeable Ceratitis Attractant Container for Controlled Release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for attracting and trapping Ceratitis capitata insects face issues such as uncontrolled release of attractants, the need for multiple components and steps in production, and potential skin irritation from volatile substances, particularly due to the use of aminoalkanes like cadaverine and putrescine.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a container with impermeable walls and a semi-permeable lid, containing an aqueous attractant composition that includes ammonium acetate and trimethylamine hydrochloride, allowing controlled vapor release without aminoalkanes, and can be directly used in trapping devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If feromones are used to attract diptera, then the attraction effectiveness is improved, but the cost of maintaining the device increases due to frequent replacement of feromone cartridges

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattraction effectivenessVSAvoidferomone consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical state of feromones from liquid (in cartridges) to solid (impregnated on substrate), and alters the release mechanism from active diffusion to passive evaporation through heat treatment, thereby reducing feromone consumption and eliminating the need for frequent cartridge replacements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces expensive, frequently replaced feromone cartridges with a more durable substrate that can be reused for extended periods, reducing operational costs and waste

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Productivity

If UV lights are used to attract diptera, then the attraction effectiveness is improved, but the energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattraction effectivenessVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs periodic flashing of UV lights instead of continuous illumination, reducing energy consumption while maintaining attraction effectiveness through intermittent light pulses that mimic natural patterns

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adjusts the intensity and duration of UV light emission parameters to optimize attraction effectiveness while minimizing energy consumption, using controlled pulsing rather than continuous high-power operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If the trapping device is placed in open areas, then the attraction effectiveness is improved, but the risk of animal accidents increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattraction effectivenessVSAvoidanimal accident risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a mesh screen as an intermediary element between the trapping area and the exterior, allowing diptera to access the trap while preventing contact with hazardous components and reducing the risk of animal accidents in open placements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The device ensures a prolonged and controlled release of the attractant composition, which enhances the effectiveness of the attractant composition, reducing the need for separate storage in the device, and minimizes the risk of skin irritation and the attractant composition, while effectively attracting and trapping a high number of insects.

Implementation Method 1

a source of ultraviolet light for attracting diptera of the ceratitis type

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhototactic response:

Implementation Method 2

a cartridge containing a feromone active substance for attracting diptera of the ceratitis type

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffusion: Diffusion

Data Source

PatentEP4478880B1Device for attracting diptera of the ceratitis type and trapping device
Publication Date: 2026.04.29 PROBODELT
  • EP4478880B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4478880B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4478880B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a device (1) for attracting dipterans that comprises a container (2) comprising walls (3), a bottom (4) and an opening (5) that is closed with a lid (6), wherein the lid (6) comprises a membrane (6A) which comprises a semi-permeable material, wherein the content of said container (2) consists of an aqueous composition (7), for attracting Diptera of the Ceratitis type, and a process thereof. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the trapping device comprising said device for attracting Diptera and a contact insecticide as well as the use thereof to attract and kill said insects.