Insect Trap Measuring Rod for Layer Thickness Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insect traps require frequent manual checking and emptying, which is time-consuming and costly, and existing counting methods using optical sensors or proximity sensors are not suitable for forestry operations due to sensitivity and reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
An insect trap equipped with a measuring rod featuring non-contact sensors, such as light-sensitive resistors, that protrude into the catch container to measure the volume of caught insects by determining the thickness of the insect layer, allowing for precise and reliable counting of insects, and optionally includes a temperature sensor and wireless data transmission capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical sensors or proximity sensors are used to count insects at the inlet opening, then insect counting capability is provided, but the solution is sensitive and not reliable for forestry operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical/proximity sensors with a mechanical measuring rod system that physically measures the volume of collected insects. The measuring rod with scale markings directly contacts the insect layer in the catch container, substituting unreliable optical detection with a simple, robust mechanical measurement approach suitable for forestry conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring rod is designed as a simple, inexpensive mechanical component that can be easily replaced or retrofitted. Rather than using complex electronic sensors that require maintenance and calibration, the patent employs a basic mechanical measuring tool that is durable and suitable for rough forestry environments.
2Productivity
If manual checking and emptying of the catch container is performed, then insect collection is maintained, but the activity is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-monitoring of insect collection volume through the measuring rod, which automatically indicates when the catch container is full or near capacity. This eliminates the need for frequent manual checking, as the system provides continuous visual feedback about collection status without requiring human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring rod provides immediate visual feedback about the volume of collected insects through its scale markings. This feedback mechanism allows operators to monitor collection progress continuously and empty the container only when necessary, reducing unnecessary trips and time loss compared to fixed-interval checking.
3Measurement precision
If volume measurement of insects is used to determine insect quantity, then counting accuracy is improved, but the method requires smoothing the insect layer which adds complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from complex electronic systems and isolates it to a simple mechanical measuring rod. By separating the volume measurement function from other trap components and using a standalone rod with scale markings, the system achieves accurate measurement without requiring additional smoothing mechanisms or complex processing.
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 solution enables safer, more reliable, and efficient recording of insect numbers, with the ability to display or transmit data on caught insects, reducing manual intervention and improving accuracy compared to previous methods, and can be retrofitted onto existing traps.
Implementation Method 1
The sensors (13), which, for example, are light-sensitive resistors (LDR), respond to insects in front of them in the collecting container (8)
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 5
AI summary
An insect trap (1) with a collection container (8) has a device (7) for recording the number of insects trapped in the collection container (8). The device (7) includes an adapter (6) positioned above the opening of the collection container (8). A sensor carrier (13), designed as a measuring rod (12), extends from the adapter (6) and projects into the collection container (8). The sensors (13), which are, for example, LDR sensors, respond to insects located in front of them in the collection container (8). The number of insects trapped is determined based on the thickness of the layer or individual layers of insects in the collection container (8) as detected by the sensors (13).