Pest control apparatus and methods
US6724312B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 25, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 28, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49117
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A pest control system includes pest control devices installed about an area or building. These devices each include a bait member and a wireless communication circuit. The wireless communication circuit may be in the form of a passive RF tag that transmits information indicative of bait status and an identifier unique to each pest control device. The wireless communication circuit can be configured in a first assembly for detecting the presence of one or more pests and a second assembly for delivering a pesticide once pests are detected. The assemblies are interchangeable within a pest control device housing. The wireless communication circuit is connected to a sensor having an electrically conductive element that can be comprised of a nonmetallic material, such as a carbon-based ink. One or more connection members electrically couple the wireless communication circuit and the sensor. These members are comprised of an electrically conductive, elastomeric compound, such as a carbon-filled silicone rubber.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.