HK1074564B - Method and device to control pests - Google Patents

Description

Method and apparatus for controlling pests

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of part of U.S. patent application No. 09/925,392 (filed 8/9/2001), U.S. patent application No. 09/925,392 is a continuation of parts of international patent application No. PCT/US00/26373 (filed 9/25/2000, not yet published in english) and U.S. patent application No. 09/669,316 (filed 9/25/2000), both of which are continuations of parts of international patent application No. PCT/US99/16519 (filed 7/21/1999 and published in english at 2/1/2001). This application also relates to U.S. patent application No. 09/812302 (filed 3/20 2001).

Background

The present invention relates to data collection and sensing technology and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to technology for collecting data from one or more pest control devices.

The elimination of pests from areas occupied by humans, livestock and crops has long been a challenge. Pests of frequent concern include various types of insects and rodents. Subterranean termites are particularly troublesome pests that can cause serious damage to wooden structures. Various solutions have been proposed to remove termites and certain other insect and non-insect pests that are harmful. In one approach, pest control relies on the blanket application of chemical pesticides to the area to be protected. However, this approach becomes less desirable due to environmental regulations.

Recently, advances have been made in providing targeted pesticide chemical delivery. U.S. Pat. No. 5,815,090 to Su is an example. Another example of termite control efforts is the SENTICON of Dow Agrosciences, Inc. of its office address Zionsville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana^TMProvided is a system. In this system, a number of units, each having termite-eatable material, are placed on the ground in a protected dwelling. The units are routinely tested by pest control for termite presence, and the test data is recorded with reference to a unique bar code label associated with each unit. If termites are found in a given unit, a bait is placed that contains a substance that is easily transported back to the termite nest to destroy the colony.

However, more reliable techniques for sensing termite and other pest activity are desired. Alternatively or additionally, the ability to collect more comprehensive data about pest behavior is sought. Accordingly, there is a continuing need for further improvements in pest control areas and related sensing technologies.

Disclosure of Invention

One embodiment of the present invention includes a unique sensing technology that can be applied to pest control. In another embodiment, a unique technique for collecting data regarding pest activity is provided. Another embodiment includes a unique pest control device to monitor and exterminate a selected one or more species of pest. As used herein, "pest control device" broadly refers to any device for sensing, detecting, monitoring, attracting, delivering, poisoning, or exterminating one or more pests.

Another embodiment of the present invention includes a unique pest control system. The system includes a number of pest control devices and means for collecting data from the pest control devices. In one embodiment, the apparatus and pest control device are transmitted using wireless technology and may also be positioned to locate the device. The pest control devices can be of different types, at least some of which can be configured to provide information regarding different degrees of pest activity in addition to indications of pest presence or absence.

Still another embodiment of the present invention includes a pest control device with an electrical circuit that includes one or more sensing elements that are consumable or displaceable by one or more species of pest. The circuit monitors electrical and/or magnetic properties of one or more sensing elements that indicate different non-zero degrees of pest consumption or displacement.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a pest control device includes an electrical circuit with an element comprising an electrically conductive, non-metallic material that is operatively changeable with the degree of consumption or displacement. Additionally or alternatively, this element may be constructed of a material having a volume resistivity of at least 0.001 ohm-cm.

In yet another embodiment, the sensor includes one or more portions operable to be spaced apart or moved from each other and circuitry operable to monitor a characteristic corresponding to a capacitance that varies with movement or separation from the one or more portions of the sensor. Due to consumption or displacement of pests; wear, corrosion or abrasion by mechanical means and/or chemical reactions causing such separation and movement may occur. Thus, sensors can be used to monitor a variety of pest activities, mechanical operations, and chemical transformations to name only a few.

For another embodiment of the present invention, one or more pest control devices are installed, each of which includes a respective bait for one or more pests, a respective pest sensor, and a respective communication circuit coupled to the pest sensor. A stimulus is provided to one of the pest control devices to activate the respective communication circuit. In response to such a stimulus, status information regarding the respective pest sensor is received.

For yet another embodiment, a pest control device includes a bait operable to be consumed or displaced by one or more pests, a pest sensing circuit, and a monitoring circuit to monitor a monitored condition of the pest sensing element. The monitoring circuit includes one or more indicators and a device responsive to the magnetic field to provide information about the pest sensing circuit with the one or more indicators.

Another embodiment of the invention comprises: installing a pest control device including a bait, a pest sensing member, and a monitoring circuit for monitoring a monitoring state of the pest sensing member; applying a magnetic field to the pest control device to stimulate operation of the monitoring circuit; and providing information from the monitoring circuit about the pest sensing element in response to the applied magnetic field. In one form, the pest control device includes one or more visual indicators that provide information. Alternatively or additionally, the magnetic field may be applied from outside using an operator control bar or the like and a monitoring circuit comprising a magnetic switch responsive to the magnetic field.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a unique sensing technique that can be applied to pest control.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a unique method, system, apparatus or device for collecting data regarding pest activity and/or detecting and exterminating one or more pests.

Other embodiments, forms, aspects, features, and objects of the present invention will become apparent from the drawings and the description contained herein.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic view of a first type of pest controller according to the present invention that includes several first types of pest control devices.

Fig. 2 is a diagram of selected elements from the system of fig. 1 in operation.

FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of a pest monitoring assembly of a first type of pest control device.

FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the projected planar pest monitoring assembly taken perpendicular to the projected plane of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a partial top view of a portion of the communication circuit components of the pest monitoring assembly shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

FIG. 6 is an exploded assembly view of a first type of pest control device with the pest monitoring assembly of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is an exploded assembly view of a first type of pest control device with a pesticide delivery assembly in place of the pest monitoring assembly of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a circuit of the system selected from FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit for the pest monitoring assembly of FIG. 3.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart of an example of a step of the present invention that may be performed with the system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a second type of pest control system that includes a second type of pest control device according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the components of a second type of pest control device.

FIG. 13 is an end view of an assembled sensor for a second type of pest control.

FIG. 14 is a schematic view of a third type of pest control system that includes a third type of pest control device according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sensor for use with a third type of pest control device.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor for the third type of pest control device taken along line 16-16 shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view of a fourth pest control system that includes a fourth type of pest control device according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sensor for the fourth type of pest control device.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor for the fourth type of pest control device taken along line 19-19 shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a schematic view of a fifth pest control system according to the present invention that includes second, third, and fourth types of pest control devices, and that also includes a fifth type of pest control device.

FIG. 21 is a schematic view of a sixth type of pest control system that includes a sixth type of pest control device according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a schematic view of a seventh pest control system according to the present invention that includes a seventh type of pest control device.

FIG. 23 is a partially schematic cross-sectional view of an eighth type of pest control device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit for the eighth type of pest control device of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a ninth pest control system according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit for a ninth type of pest control device included in the system of FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of a tenth type of pest control system according to the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a schematic diagram of an electrical circuit for a tenth type of pest control device included in the system of FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart of an example of one step of the present invention that may be performed with one or more different types of pest control devices.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT (S) OF INVENTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

FIG. 1 depicts pest control system 20 of one embodiment of the present invention. System 20 is provided to protect building 22 from pests, such as subterranean termites. System 20 includes a plurality of pest control devices 110 positioned adjacent to building 22. In fig. 1, only a few devices 110 are explicitly numbered to maintain clarity. System 20 also includes interrogator 30 to gather information about devices 110. Information collected by interrogator 30 from devices 110 is collected in Data Collection Unit (DCU)40 via communication interface 41.

With additional reference to FIG. 2, certain aspects of the operation of the system 20 are described. In FIG. 2, pest control service provider P is shown operating interrogator 30 using a wireless communication technique to interrogate pest control devices 110 located at least partially beneath ground G. In this example, interrogator 30 is shown in a hand-held form that facilitates searching for a ground G for wireless communications with devices 110 that are set up and installed. Other aspects of system 20 and its operation are described in conjunction with fig. 8-10, but further details regarding exemplary pest control device 110 are first described with reference to fig. 3-7.

Fig. 3-7 depict various features of pest control device 110. To initiate pest monitoring, pest control device 110 is internally configured with pest monitoring assembly 112. Referring more particularly to fig. 3 and 4, pest control monitoring assembly 112 is depicted with axis a assembled along a centerline. Axis a coincides with the plan views of fig. 3 and 4; wherein the plan view of fig. 4 is perpendicular to the plan view of fig. 3.

Pest monitoring assembly 112 includes a sensing subassembly 114 below a communication circuit subassembly 116 along axis A. The sensing subassembly 114 includes two (2) bait members 132 (see fig. 3 and 6). Each bait member 132 is constructed of a bait material for one or more selected pests. For example, each bait member 132 is constructed of a material that is a favorite food of such pests. In one embodiment, which is directly related to subterranean termites, each bait member 132 is in the form of a cork block without an insecticide composition. In another embodiment for termites, one or more of bait members 132 can include a pesticide, have a composition other than wood, or a combination of these features. In still other embodiments, where pest control device 110 is directly associated with a pest type other than termites, a different composition is typically used corresponding to each bait member 132.

The sensing subassembly 114 also includes a sensor 150. A sensor 150 is depicted between the bait members 132 of fig. 3 and 6; where figure 6 is a more complete view of the assembly of pest control device 110 of figure 3. The sensor 150 is generally elongate and has an end 152a opposite an end 152b, as shown in fig. 4 and 6. The middle of the sensor 150 is represented in fig. 4 by the broken line of a pair of adjacent spaced portions 152a and 152b, and the bait member 132 is not shown in fig. 4 to prevent obscuring the view of the sensor 150.

The sensor 150 includes a substrate 151. The substrate 151 carries conductors 153, the conductors 153 being arranged to provide sensing elements 153a in the form of conductive rings or channels 154 shown in fragmentary view in fig. 4. Along the central sensor portion indicated by dashed lines in fig. 4, four portions of the channel 154 extend along generally straight, parallel paths (not shown) and oppositely connect the four channel portions terminating at one dashed end portion 152a and the four channel portions terminating at the other dashed end portion 152 b. The channel 154 terminates at a pair of electrical contact pads 156 at a substrate edge 155 adjacent the end portion 152 a.

Substrate 151 and/or conductor 153 are constructed of one or more materials susceptible to consumption or displacement by pests being monitored by pest monitoring assembly 112. These materials may be edible substances, non-edible substances, or a combination of both, for one or more pests of interest. In fact, it has been found that during consumption of a nearby edible material, such as bait member 132, the material comprising the non-edible substance will be readily transferred. The channels 154 are eventually altered when the substrate 151 or conductors 153 are consumed or displaced. Such changes may be utilized to detect the presence of pests by monitoring one or more corresponding electrical characteristics of pathway 154, as will be more fully described below. Alternatively, the base plate 151 and/or the conductor 153 may be positioned relative to the bait member 132 such that some degree of consumption or movement of the bait member 132 exerts sufficient mechanical pressure to alter the conductivity of the passage 154 in a monitored manner. For such changes, substrate 151 and/or conductor 153 need not be directly consumed or displaced by the pest of interest.

Pest monitoring assembly 112 further includes a circuit subassembly 116 coupled to sensor subassembly 114. The circuit subassembly 116 is configured to detect and communicate pest activity as indicated by a change in one or more electrical characteristics of the channel 154 of the sensing subassembly 114. The circuit subassembly 116 includes a circuit housing 118 for housing the communication circuit 160 and a pair of connectors 140 for detachably coupling the communication circuit 160 to the sensors 150 of the sensor subassembly 114. Various operational aspects of this arrangement are described below in connection with fig. 8-10. Housing 118 includes a casing 120, an O-ring 124 and a base 130 each having a generally circular outer periphery about axis a. A more fully assembled housing 118 is shown in fig. 4 relative to fig. 3. The housing 120 defines a cavity 122 defined by an inner rim 123. The base 130 defines a channel 131 (shown in phantom) sized to receive the O-ring 124 and the base 130 includes an outer flange 133 configured to engage the inner rim 123 when the base 130 and the housing 120 are assembled (see fig. 4).

The communication circuit is disposed between the cover 120 and the base 130. The communication circuit 160 includes a coil antenna 162 and a printed circuit board 164 carrying circuit components. Referring also to fig. 5, a top view of the assembly of the base 130, the connector 140, and the wireless communication circuitry 160 is shown. In fig. 5, axis a is perpendicular to the viewing plane and is represented by a crosshair. The base 130 includes posts 132 to engage with mounting holes through the printed circuit board 164. The base 130 also includes a bracket 134 to engage the coil antenna 162 and remain fixed relative to the base 130 and the printed circuit board 164 when assembled together. The base 130 also includes four posts 136, each defining an opening 137 therethrough, as depicted in FIG. 4. The base 130 is in the shape of a centrally mounted projection 138 between an adjacent pair of legs 136. The projection 138 defines a recess 139 (shown in cross-section in fig. 3).

Referring generally to fig. 3-5, each connector 140 includes a pair of nubs 146. Each nub 146 has a neck 147 and a head 145 extending from opposite ends of the respective connector 140. For each connector 140, a tab 148 is placed between a corresponding pair of nubs 146. The projection 148 defines a recess 149. The connection member 140 is made of an electrically conductive elastic (elastic) material. In one embodiment, each connector 140 is constructed of a carbon-containing silicone rubber, such as compound 862 available from TECKNIT, having an office address of 129 dark Street, Cranford, NJ 07016. However, in other embodiments, different compounds may be used.

To assemble each link 140 to base 130, a corresponding pair of nubs 146 are inserted through openings 137 of each pair of legs 136, with tabs 148 extending into grooves 139. The head 145 of each nub 146 is sized slightly larger than the respective opening 137 through which it may pass. Thus, during insertion, the head 145 is elastically deformed until it passes completely through the respective opening 137. Once the head 145 extends through the opening 137, it returns to its original shape with the neck 147 fully engaging the edge of the opening. With the appropriate size and shape of head 145 and neck 147 of nub 146, opening 137 can be sealed to prevent the passage of moisture and debris when base 130 and connector 140 are assembled together. As shown in fig. 5, printed circuit board 164 contacts one nub 146 of each connector 140 after assembly.

After the connection 140 and the base 130 are assembled together, the housing 118 is assembled by inserting the base 130 into the cavity 122 with the O-ring 124 carried by the channel 131. During insertion, the cover 120 and/or base 130 elastically deform such that the flange 133 extends into the cavity 122 beyond the inner rim 123, and thus the cover 120 and base 130 engage each other in a "snap-fit" type connection. The angled profile of the outer surface of the base 130 facilitates this form of assembly. Once cover 120 and base 130 are connected in this manner, O-ring 124 provides a resilient seal to prevent moisture and debris from entering cavity 122. The interior surface of the housing 120 that engages the base 130 may also have a favorable (complementary) profile that facilitates sealing.

After the communication circuit subassembly is assembled, the sensor is assembled to subassembly 116 by inserting end 152a into groove 149 of each connector 140 carried by base 130. The sizing of connector 140 is slightly elastically deformed by insertion of end portion 152a into recess 149 such that a biasing pressure is applied to end portion 152a by connector 140 to ensure contact of sensor 150 therewith. Once end 152a is inserted into connector 140, each of pads 156 makes electrical contact with a different one of connectors 140. In turn, each nub 146 that contacts printed circuit board 164 electrically couples channel 154 to printed circuit board 164.

Referring to FIG. 6, a cross-sectional view of pest control device 110 and pest monitoring assembly 112 is depicted. In FIG. 6, sensor subassembly 114 and circuit subassembly 116 are shown assembled together and nested within carrier 190 to maintain pest monitoring assembly as a unit. The carrier 190 is in the form of a base 192 that includes a plurality of side elements 194 attached to opposite sides thereof. Only one side member 194 is fully visible in fig. 6, the others extending from base 192 along the hidden side of pest monitoring assembly 112 in a similar manner. The side members 194 are connected together by a bridge 196 opposite the base. The bridge 196 is provided to define a shaped space 198 to receive the assembled housing 118 of the circuit subassembly 116.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, pest control device 110 includes a housing 170 having a removable cover 180 configured for placement on the ground. The housing 170 defines a cavity 172 intersecting an opening 178. Pest monitoring assembly 112 and carrier 190 are sized for insertion into cavity 172 through opening 178. Housing 170 has an end portion 171a opposite end portion 171 b. End portion 171b includes a tapered end 175 as shown in fig. 2 to assist in placement of pest control device 110 in the ground. End 175 terminates in a bore (not shown). Communicating with the cavity 172 are a plurality of slots 174 defined by the housing 170. Slots 174 are in part well-suited for entry and exit of termites from cavity 172. Housing 170 has a plurality of protruding flanges (designated in FIG. 6 by reference numerals 176a, 176b, 176c, 176d and 176 e), a portion of which are used to assist in the placement of pest control device 110 in the ground.

Once in cavity 172, pest monitoring assembly 112 may be protected in housing 170 with cover 180. Cover 180 includes downward projections 184 that are configured to engage channels 179 of housing 170. After the cover 180 is fully seated on the housing 170, it may be rotated to engage the tabs 184 in a locked position against disassembly. Such a locking mechanism may include a pawl and detent arrangement. A tool, such as a flat blade screwdriver, may be used to assist in rotating the cap 180 to engage the slot 182 with the cap 180. Preferably, carrier 190, base 130, cover 120, housing 170, and cover 180 should be constructed of materials that resist deterioration from environmental exposure and resist pest changes that are easily detected by pest control device 110. In One form, the components are constructed of a polymeric resin such as polypropylene or CYCOLAC AR polymeric plastic material available from General Electric Plastics having the office address One Plastics Avenue Pittsfield MA 01201.

Typically, pest monitoring assembly 112 is placed within cavity 172 after housing 170 is at least partially installed above the ground in the area being monitored. Pest monitoring assembly 112 is configured to monitor and report pest activity as will be explained more fully in connection with FIGS. 8-10. In one form of operation, pest control device 110 is reconfigured to deliver pesticides after pest activity is monitored with pest monitoring assembly 112. FIG. 7 is an exploded assembly diagram of one embodiment of such reconfiguration. In fig. 7, pest control device 110 utilizes pesticide delivery assembly 119 as a replacement for pest monitoring assembly 112 after pest activity has been monitored. Replacement begins by rotating the cap 180 in the opposite direction to the desired latch and removing the cap 180 from the housing 170. Typically, the cover 180 is removed while the housing 170 remains at least partially installed in the ground. Pest monitoring assembly 112 is then pulled from housing 170 by pulling carrier 190. It has been found that application of pest control device 110 to pests such as termites prior to displacement of pest monitoring assembly 112 can result in an actual amount of accumulation of dirt and debris in cavity 172. Such accumulation can hinder the displacement of pest monitoring assembly 112 from cavity 172. Accordingly, the member 190 is preferably configured to withstand a pull force of at least 40 pounds (1bs), and more preferably at least 80 pounds.

After pest monitoring assembly 112 is removed from cavity 172, pesticide delivery assembly 119 is placed in cavity 172 of housing 170 through opening 178. Pesticide delivery assembly 119 includes a pesticide bait tube 1170 defining a cavity 1172. Cavity 1172 contains an insecticide support base member 1173. Tube 1170 has a threaded end 1174 configured to engage a cap 1176, which cap 1176 has an accompanying internal thread (not shown). Cap 1176 defines a gap 1178. Before, during, or after pest monitoring assembly 112 is transferred from housing 170, circuit subassembly 116 is separated from sensor 150. After removal from pest monitoring assembly 112, aperture 1178 is thereby sized and shaped to securely receive circuit subassembly 116. After pesticide delivery assembly 119 is configured with circuit subassembly 116, it is placed in cavity 172 and cover 180 may be reengaged with housing 170 in the manner previously described.

FIG. 8 schematically depicts circuitry of interrogator 30 and pest monitoring assembly 112 for an exemplary pest control device 110 of system 20 shown in FIG. 1. The monitoring circuit 169 of fig. 8 collectively depicts the communication circuit 160 connected to the conductors 153 of the sensor 150 by the connection 140. In fig. 8, channel 154 of monitoring circuit 169 is represented by a single pole single throw switch corresponding to the capacity of sensor 150 to provide an open or closed circuit channel depending on pest activity. Additionally, the communication circuit 160 includes a sensor state monitor 163 to provide a two-state status signal when powered; one state representing an open or high resistance path 154 and the other state representing an electrically closed or continuous path 154. Communication circuit 160 also includes identification code 167 to generate a corresponding identification code for device 110. The identification code 167 may be a predetermined multi-bit binary code or other form as will occur to those of skill in the art.

Communication circuit 160 is configured as a passive RF interrogator that is charged by an external excitation or excitation signal from interrogator 30 via coil antenna 162. Likewise, the monitor and identification code 167 of the circuit 160 are powered by this excitation signal. In response to being energized by the excitation signal, communication circuitry 160 transmits information to interrogator 30 in a modulated RF format using coil antenna 162. This wireless transmission corresponds to the bait status determined by the unique device identifier provided by monitor 163 and identification code 167.

Referring additionally to FIG. 9, further details of the communication circuit 160 and the monitoring circuit 169 are described. In fig. 9, the dashed box represents the printed circuit board 164 bounding the component 166 carried thereby. Circuit elements 166 include capacitor C, integrated circuit IC, resistor R, and PNP transistor Q1. In the depicted embodiment, the integrated circuit IC is passive and Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) model number MCRF202 is provided by Microchip Technologies, Inc. of 2355West Chandler Blvd, ChandlerAZ 85224-. The integrated circuit IC comprises code 167 and monitor 163.

The IC also includes two (2) contacts V connected to a parallel network circuit of the coil antenna 162 and the capacitor C_AAnd V_B. For the depicted embodiment, the capacitor C has a capacitance of about 390 picofarads (pF) and the coil antenna 162 has an inductance value of about 4.16 microHenries (mH). Configuring IC with V_CCAt higher potential via contact V_CCAnd V_SSProviding a regulated d.c. potential. Through contact V_AAnd V_BThis potential is derived from the reactive excitation RF input of the coil antenna 162. V of IC_CCThe contact is electrically coupled to the emitter of transistor Q1 and one of the electrical contact pads 156 of sensor 150. The base of transistor Q1 is electrically coupled to another electrical contact pad 156. Resistor R is electrically connected to V of IC_SSThe junction and the base of transistor Q1. The collector of transistor Q1 is coupled to the sensor input of the IC. When not activated, the series connection of conductive pathway 154 and connecting member 140 exhibits a relatively low resistance compared to the noted resistance R of 330 kohms. Thus, the base of transistor Q1 is connected through the conductive path formed by R, connection 140 and154 exhibit insufficient voltage to turn on transistor Q1 instead of shunting through R. Thus, the input sensor to the IC remains at a logic low level with respect to the pull-down internal resistance to the IC (not shown). When the resistance of the conductive path 154 increases to indicate an open circuit condition, the potential difference between the emitter and base of transistor Q1 switches to turn on transistor Q1. Accordingly, the potential difference supplied to the sensor input of the IC is relative to V_SSAt a logic high level. And directly across V_CCThe transistor Q1 and resistor R circuit arrangement have the effect of reversing the logic level provided to the sensor input as compared to the sensor input placement conductive path 154.

In other embodiments, different arrangements of one or more components may be used to provide the communication circuit 160 collectively or individually. In a modified configuration, the communication circuit 160 may transmit only the bait status signal or the identification signal, but not both. In another embodiment, different changes to the device 110 may be communicated with or without bait status or device identification information. In another variation, communication circuit 160 may be selectively or permanently "active" if, in fact, it has its own internal power source. For this variation, it is not necessary to obtain power from an external excitation signal. In fact, device 110 is capable of communicating instead. In yet another alternative embodiment, device 110 may include both active and passive circuitry.

Fig. 8 also depicts communication circuitry 31 of interrogator 30. The interrogator 30 includes an RF excitation circuit 32 that generates an RF excitation signal and an RF receiver (RXR) circuit 34 that accepts an RF input. Circuits 32 and 34 are each operatively coupled to a controller 36. While interrogator 30 and separate coils for circuits 32 and 34 are shown, the same coils may be used in other embodiments. Controller 36 is operatively coupled to an input/output (I/O) port 37 and memory 38 of interrogator 30. Interrogator 30 has its own current source (not shown) to energize circuitry 31, typically in the form of an electrochemical cell or a battery (not shown) of such cells. The controller 36 may be comprised of one or more components. In one embodiment, controller 36 is a programmable microprocessor-based type that executes instructions stored in memory 38. In other embodiments, controller 36 may be defined by analog computing circuitry, hardwired state machine logic, or other device type as an alternative or in addition to programmable digital circuitry. The memory 38 may include one or more of volatile and non-volatile solid-state semiconductor elements. Alternatively or additionally, memory 38 may include one or more of electromagnetic or optical storage such as a floppy or hard disk drive or a CD-ROM. In one embodiment, the controller 36, the I/O port 37, and the memory 38 are integrally provided on the same integrated circuit chip.

I/O port 37 is provided as shown in FIG. 1 to transmit data from interrogator 30 to data collection unit 40. Referring back to FIG. 1, additional aspects of the data collection unit 40 are described. The interface 41 of the setup unit 40 is used for communication with the interrogator via the I/O port 37. Unit 40 also includes a processor 42 and memory 44 to store and process information obtained from interrogator 30 regarding device 110. The processor 42 and memory 44 may be variously configured in an analog manner as the controller 36 and memory 38, respectively, previously described. Furthermore, the interface 41, the processor 42 and the memory 44 may be integrally provided on the same integrated circuit chip.

Thus, for the described embodiment, communication circuitry 160 transmits bait status and identification code information to interrogator 30 when interrogator 30 transmits a stimulus signal to device 110 within range. RF receive circuitry 34 of interrogator 30 receives information from device 110 and provides appropriate signal conditioning and formatting for processing and storage in memory 38 via controller 36, and data received from device 110 may be transmitted to data collection unit 40 via operatively coupled I/O port 37 to interface 41.

Unit 40 may be provided in the form of a laptop personal computer, hand-held or palmtop computer, or other general purpose or variety of computer devices adapted to interface with interrogator 30 and to programmably receive and store data from interrogator 30. In other embodiments, unit 40 may be remotely mounted with respect to interrogator 30. For this embodiment, one or more interrogators 30 communicate with unit 40 over a communications medium such as a telephone system or a computer network such as the Internet. In yet another embodiment, interrogator 30 and setup unit 40 are not included to communicate directly with communication circuit 160. Interrogator 30 and/or unit 40 is installed to communicate with one or more pest control devices through a hard disk interface. In yet another embodiment, different interfaces and communication techniques may be used for interrogator 30, data collection unit 40, and device 110 as will occur to those of skill in the art.

In a preferred embodiment for subterranean termites, it is preferred that substrate 151 be constructed of a non-food material that inhibits dimensional changes when exposed to a desired moisture content in the environment of the ground. It has been found that such a dimensionally stable substrate is not susceptible to inadvertent alteration of the conductive vias 154. One embodiment of a more dimensionally stable substrate 151 includes paper coated with a polymer, such as polyethylene. However, in other embodiments, substrate 151 can be constructed from other materials or polymers, including those that can change size upon exposure to moisture and can alternatively or additionally include one or more types preferred by the target pest.

It has been found that in some applications, certain metal-based electrical conductors, such as silver-containing conductors, tend to readily ionize in aqueous solutions common to the environment in which pest control devices are typically used. This situation can lead to electrical shorting or shunting of the conductive pathways of the pest control device as a result of such electrolyte, as a result of improper device characteristics. It has also been surprisingly discovered that carbon-based conductors have a substantially reduced likelihood of electrical shorting or shunting. Thus, for these embodiments, it is preferred that the channels 154 be formed from a non-metallic, carbon-containing ink compound. One source of such ink is from acheson colloids, 600 Washington ave. The carbon-containing conductive ink comprising conductors 153 may be deposited on substrate 151 using screen printing, stamping, or ink jet dispensing techniques, or other such other techniques as will occur to those of skill in the art.

Carbon-based conductors may have a higher resistivity than commonly selected metal conductors. Preferably, the volume resistivity of the carbon-containing ink compound is greater than or equal to about 0.001ohm-cm (ohm-cm). In a more preferred embodiment, the volume resistivity of the conductor 153 of carbonaceous material is greater than or equal to 0.1 ohm-cm. In still more preferred embodiments, the volume resistivity of the conductor 153 of carbonaceous material is greater than or equal to 10 ohm-cm. In still other embodiments, the conductor 153 may have a different composition or volume resistivity as would occur to those skilled in the art.

In further embodiments, other conductive elements and/or compounds are contemplated for pest control devices that do not completely ionize in aqueous solutions in the desired pest control device environment. In still further embodiments of the present invention, metal-based conductors are used despite the risk of shunting or shorting.

Certain operational aspects of the system 20 are further described with reference generally to fig. 1-9. Typically, interrogator 30 is arranged to cause excitation circuitry 32 to generate an RF signal suitable for powering circuitry 169 of device 110 when device 110 is within a predetermined distance range of interrogator 30. In one embodiment, the controller 36 is configured to automatically cause generation of this analog signal on a periodic basis. In other embodiments, the activation of the activation signal by the operator may be controlled by an operator coupled to interrogator 30 (not shown). Such operator actuation may be as an alternative to automatic actuation or as an additional form of actuation. Interrogator 30 may include a conventional type of visual or audible indicator (not shown) to provide the operator with the desired interrogation situation.

With further reference to the flowchart of fig. 10, termite control program 220 of another embodiment of the present invention is depicted. At step 222 of process 220, a plurality of pest control devices 110 are installed in a spaced apart ratio relative to the area to be protected. By way of non-limiting example, FIG. 1 provides one possible distribution of a large number of devices 110 installed around a building 22 to be protected. One or more of these devices may be placed at least partially underground as shown in fig. 2.

With respect to routine 220, each device 110 is initially installed with pest monitoring assemblies 112, each pest monitoring assembly 112 including a pair of bait members 132 that monitor subterranean termites as a favorite food and a species that does not include a pesticide. It has been found that once a colony of termites establishes a pathway to a food source, they will tend to return to that food source. Accordingly, device 110 is initially placed in a monitoring structure to establish such a pathway with any termites, which may be in the vicinity of the area or structure to be protected, such as building 22.

Once in place, a map of the device 110 is generated at step 224. This map includes indicia corresponding to the encoded identifier for the installation device 110. In one embodiment, the identifier is unique for each device 100. The pest monitoring loop 230 of routine 220 intersects with the next step 226. At step 226, the installed devices 110 are periodically placed and data is loaded from each device 110 by interrogation of the respective wireless communication circuit 160 with the interrogator 30. The data corresponds to the bait status and identification information. In this manner, pest activity in a given device 110 can be easily detected without the need to pull out or open each device 110 for visual inspection. Moreover, such radio communication techniques permit the set up and construction of electronic databases that may be downloaded to the data collection device 40 for long term storage.

It should also be appreciated that over time, subterranean pest monitoring devices 110 can become difficult to place as they have a tendency to move, sometimes pushing deeper into the ground. Moreover, the monitoring devices 110 in the ground may be hidden from view due to the growth of the surrounding crops. In one embodiment, interrogator 30 and plurality of devices 110 are arranged such that interrogator 30 communicates only with the closest device 110. This technique may be implemented by appropriately selecting the communication range between interrogator 30 and each device 110, as well as the location of devices 110 relative to each other. Accordingly, interrogator 30 may be used to scan or scan a path that continuously communicates with each individual device 110 along the ground. For these embodiments, the wireless communication subsystem 120 and each device 110 provided by interrogator 30 provide the steps and methods to more reliably position a given device 110 after more limited visual or metal detection access has been installed, and in effect, the positioning steps may be applied to engage the unique identifier of each device and/or the map generated at step 224 to more quickly maintain the location at step 226. In further embodiments, the locating operation may be further enhanced by providing interrogator 30 (not shown) with an operator-controlled communication range adjustment feature to assist in improving the location of a given device. However, in other embodiments, the device 110 may be detected by a wireless communication technique that does not include an identification signal or transmission of a coordinated map. Moreover, in alternative embodiments, the location of device 110 with interrogator 30 may not be required.

The following of procedure 220 intersects with conditional 228. Conditional 228 detects whether any signal indicative of a status of termite activity is indicative of a broken passage 154. If the test of conditional 228 is negative, then monitoring loop 230 returns to step 226 to repeat the monitoring of device 110 with interrogator 30. The cycle 230 may be repeated multiple times in this manner. Typically, the frequency at which the cycle 230 is repeated may be on the order of days or weeks and may vary. If the test of conditional 228 is affirmative, then routine 220 continues with step 240. At step 240, the pest control service provider places a bait-filled pesticide in proximity to the detected pests. In one embodiment, pesticide placement includes movement by a service provider and pulling cap 180 from pest monitoring assembly 130 of housing 170. Next, for this example, pest control device 110 is reconfigured to swap pesticide delivery assembly 119 with pest monitoring assembly 112 as previously described with respect to FIG. 7.

In other embodiments, alternate devices may include different configurations of communication circuitry or no communication circuitry at all. In an alternative, the pesticide is added to an existing pest sensing device by replacing one or more bait members 132 and optional sensor 150. In still another embodiment, pesticide bait or other material is added with or without moving pest monitoring assembly 112. In yet another embodiment, the insecticide is provided in a different device that is additionally installed adjacent to the installed device 110 that has pest activity. During the pesticide placement operation of step 240, it is desirable to return or maintain as many termites as possible in the vicinity of device 110 where pest activity is detected so that the path established for access to the nest can be used as a ready route to deliver the pesticide to other group members.

After step 240, a monitoring loop 250 intersects step 242. In step 242, the device 110 continues to be periodically tested. In one embodiment, the verification of device 110 corresponding to pesticide bait is performed visually by the pest control service provider while the verification of other devices 110 in a monitoring fashion typically continues with interrogator 30. In other embodiments, visual verification may be supplemented or replaced by electronic monitoring using pest activity monitoring assembly 130 disposed with a poisoned bait matrix, or a combination of methods thereof. In an alternative example, channel 154 is altered to monitor pesticide bait so that it is typical for a monitoring modality to not break off to provide an open reading until a greater amount of bait has been consumed relative to the channel structure. In still other alternatives, instead of reducing the risk of disturbing termites as they consume the insecticide, insecticide baits are not typically tested.

After step 242, conditional 244 meets with a test of whether procedure 220 should continue. If the test of conditional 244 is positive, i.e., routine 220 will continue, then converge with conditional 246. At conditional 246, it is determined whether more pesticide bait needs to be installed. More bait may be needed to replenish bait consumed by a device that has detected pest activity, or pesticide bait may need to be placed for a device 110 that remains in a monitoring state in response to newly discovered pest activity. If conditional 246 tests positive, then loop 252 returns to step 240 to install additional pesticide bait. If additional bait is not needed when condition 246 is detected, loop 250 returns to repeat step 242. The loop 250, 252 is repeated in this manner until the test for conditional 244 is negative. 250. The repetition frequency of the 252 cycles and the interval between successive executions of the corresponding step 242 is on the order of days or weeks and may vary. If the test of conditional 244 is negative, then at step 260 the procedure 220 of placing and moving the device 110 terminates.

Data collected with interrogator 30 during execution of routine 220 may be downloaded to unit 40 from time to time. However, in other embodiments, unit 40 may be optional or non-existent. In still another alternative procedure, the monitoring of additional pest activity in step 242 may not be required. Instead, the monitoring unit may be transferred. In another alternative example, one or more devices 110 configured for monitoring may be reallocated, increased in number or decreased in number as part of program execution. In still other embodiments, a data collection unit is utilized in place of interrogator 30 to interface with one or more pest control devices. Additionally or alternatively, the connection to interrogator 30 and/or unit 40 may be through a hardwired communication connection.

FIG. 11 depicts pest control system 300 of another embodiment of the present invention, where like reference numerals refer to like features previously described. Pest control system 300 includes pest control device 310 and data collection unit 390. Pest control device 310 includes a circuit 320 movably coupled to a sensor 350 through a connection 40.

Referring additionally to the partial assembly diagram of fig. 12, sensor 350 includes a substrate 351 carrying a resistive network 353. Resistive network 353 includes a plurality of sensing elements 353a in the form of resistive branches or channels 354 spaced apart from one another along substrate 351. The resistive pathways 354 are schematically represented in FIG. 11 by different resistors R1-R13, respectively. Network 353 extends from contact 356 at edge 355 to end 357 of the substrate. When coupled together, network 353 and circuit 320 comprise monitoring circuit 369.

With further reference to the end view of FIG. 13, a fully assembled and completed form of sensor 350 is shown. As shown in fig. 13, the configuration sensor 350 may be rotated, folded, or wound about an assembly axis a1 to provide a number of adjacent layers 360, only a few of which are indicated by reference numerals. It should be understood that axis a1 in fig. 13 is perpendicular to the plane of fig. 13 and is accordingly represented by a similarly labeled crosshair. Referring back to fig. 11 and 12, the circuit 320 is contained within the circuit housing 318. Housing 318 may be configured in a manner similar to housing 118 of pest monitoring subassembly 114 for pest control device 110. In practice, housing 318 is mounted to receive a pair of connectors 140 for electrically coupling pads 356 of sensor 350 to circuitry 320 in the same manner that pads 156 of sensor 150 are coupled to circuitry 160. When circuit 320 and sensor 350 are coupled together to form a monitoring circuit, circuit 320 includes a reference resistor R connected in series with network 353_R. Reference voltage V_RAlso through network 353 and reference resistor R_RAnd (4) coupling. Selectively digitized across reference resistor R by analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 324 using standard techniques_RVoltage of (d) is represented as V_i. The digital output from the a/D converter 324 is provided to a processor 326. Processor 326 is operably coupled to communications circuitry 328.

Processor 326 may be comprised of one or more components. In one embodiment, processor 326 is a programmable digital microprocessor device that executes instructions stored in an associated memory (not shown). In other embodiments, processor 326 may be defined by analog computing circuitry, hardwired state machine logic, or other device types as alternative or additional programmable digital circuitry. Memory is preferably included in communication circuitry 320 to store the digitized values determined with a/D converter 324 (not shown). Such storage may be integral to the a/D converter 324 or the processor 326, separate from both, or a combination of these.

The communication circuit 328 is wireless, such as the previously described embodiments of active or passive wireless communication circuits coupled to the system 20. A communication circuit 328 is provided in communication with the processor 326. Alternatively or additionally, the communication circuit 328 may include one or more input/output (I/O) ports for hardwired communication.

One or more reference voltages V_Ra/D converter 324, processor 326 or communication circuit 328 may be combined in an integrated circuit chip or unit. And circuit 320 and corresponding monitoring circuit 369 may be passive, powered by an external power source; active type with its own power supply; or a combination of these.

The data collection unit 390 includes a passive transmitter/receiver (TXR/RXR)392 configured to communicate with the communication circuitry 328 of the device 310, a processor 394 coupled to the TXR/RXR 392, an interface 396 and a memory 398. The processor 394 and memory 398 may be the same as the processor 42 and memory 44, respectively, of the data collection unit 40, or may be different devices, as will occur to those of skill in the art. Interface 396 provides the option of a hardwired interface to device 310 and/or other computing devices (not shown). Data collection unit 390 is provided to receive and process information from one or more pest control devices, as will be described more fully below.

Referring generally to fig. 11-13, it should be understood that network 353 may be comprised of an equivalent resistor R_SRepresents; wherein R is_SIs a function of R1-R13, (R)_SF (R1-R13)). When R1-R13 are known, R can be determined for series and parallel resistances using standard circuit analysis techniques_S. In addition, it should be understood that with respect to the reference voltage V_RCan simulate R_RAnd R_SActing as a voltage divider, to cause the input voltage V to the A/D converter 324_iCan be expressed by the following equation: v_i＝V_R＊(R_R/R_R+R_S))。

Substrate 351 and/or network 353 are provided from one or more materials that are readily consumed or displaced by one or more pests of interest. As sensor 350 is consumed or displaced by these pests, resistive path 354, which includes the branches of network 353, is broken, becoming an electrical open circuit. R becomes open due to one or more resistive paths_SThe value of (a) changes. Thus, each pair of resistive pathways 354 is opposite each other R_RAnd V_RWith appropriate selection of the resistance values, many different R's may be provided depending on the open circuit of different resistive pathways 354 and/or different combinations of open pathways 354_SThe value is obtained.

Unlike fig. 12. FIG. 13 depicts sensor 350 after one or more pests have begun consumption or displacement of substrate 351 and/or network 353. Pest T is depicted in FIG. 13 in connection with pest opening 370 resulting from pest consumption or displacement. The location of pest-producing opening 370 relative to network 353 corresponds to phantom overlay 380 shown in FIG. 12. From the edge 372 of the outer sensor to the middle of the sensor 350 near axis a1, pest-producing opening 370 partially penetrates several layers 360 of sensor 350. Depending on the relative position, pest-producing opening 370 corresponds to the separation and movement of one or more portions of sensor 350 relative to other portions of sensor 350 that may result in the opening of one or more resistive pathways 354. These separations or movements may result from movement of one or more elements of sensor 350 resulting from pest activity. Even if the elements of sensor 350 are not displaced by pests, separation or displacement of sensor 350 can still occur due to pest activity that separates or displaces a first portion relative to a second portion at one sensor area, but causes the first and second portions to be coupled together at other sensor areas. For example, sensor portion 374 is separated or displaced relative to sensor portion 376 in FIG. 13 by the formation of opening 370; however, sensor portions 374 and 376 remain connected through sensor portion 378.

It will further be appreciated that the resistance path is spatially arranged in a predetermined mannerWay 354, with R_SAnd thus the change in value of Vi, sensor 350 may be configured to generally indicate a greater degree of progressive consumption or movement. For example, the arrangement of substrate 351 shown in FIG. 13 can be used to place resistive pathways 354 closer to substrate end 357 near outer sensor edge 372, such as those resistive pathways 354 corresponding to R8 and R9. Because these resistive pathways 354 are closer to the outer edge 372, they are more susceptible to being hit by pests before other resistive pathways 354. In contrast, resistive path 354 is closer to the middle of rotatable base plate 351 (axis A1), such as those corresponding to R1, R5 and R10, are likely to be eventually encountered by pests consuming and moving sensor 350. Therefore, when R is_SAs pest consumption or movement progresses from the outer sensor edge 372 to the middle, the corresponding input voltage V changes_iMay be used to represent many different non-zero degrees of consumption or movement of sensor 350.

Processor 326 may be used to evaluate the V corresponding to the digitization by the A/D converter_iTo determine whether a change in pest consumption or movement has occurred. This analysis may include a variety of statistical techniques to reduce noise or other abnormal adverse reactions. Furthermore, the analysis may be used to determine the rate of consumption or movement and any change in rate with respect to time. These results may be provided by processor 326 in response to an external interrogation of data unit 390 via communication circuit 328 according to some predetermined threshold trigger, on a periodic basis, or by a different arrangement as will occur to those of skill in the art.

It is understood that several devices 310, like pest control devices 110 of system 20, can be employed in a spaced apart relationship in a multiple device pest control system. The device 310 may be configured to be installed underground, above ground, or above ground. Also as noted, device 310 and interrogator 30 are used together to assist in their positioning relative to system 20. Also, it should be understood that many different resistive network devices may be used simultaneously in apparatus 310 to more easily detect different degrees of pest consumption or displacement. In other alternative embodiments, the desired sensing network is provided by stacking a number of individual layers together and electrically connecting the desired layers. In still other alternative examples, instead of the arrangement shown in FIG. 13, the sensor 350 is used in a non-rotated single layer configuration. Other embodiments also include different resistive sensing network configurations as would occur to those skilled in the art.

Referring to fig. 14-16, another pest control system embodiment 400 is depicted that uses a resistive network to determine varying degrees of pest activity; wherein like reference numerals refer to like features previously described. As depicted, system 400 includes data collection unit 390 and pest control device 410 coupled to system 300. Pest control device 410 includes a circuit 420 coupled to sensor 410. As described above, circuit 420 includes reference resistor R_RReference voltage V_RAn a/D converter 324, and a communication circuit 328. The circuit 420 also includes a processor 426, which may be physically identical to the processor 326, but the processor 426 is configured to accommodate differences between the process sensors 350 and 450, as will be explained further below.

Sensor 450 includes a substrate 451, substrate 451 having a surface 451a opposite surface 451 b. Substrate 451 defines a plurality of regularly spaced channels 456 from surface 451 to surface 451 b. The resistive network 453 is made up of a number of sensing elements 453a in the form of resistive elements 455. Each resistive element 455 extends through a different channel 456. Resistive elements 455 are electrically coupled in parallel to each other by conductive layers 454a and 454b, respectively, which are in contact with substrate surfaces 451a and 451 b. With this configuration, substrate 451 is formed of an electrically insulative material relative to resistive element 455 and conductive layers 454a and 454 b.

In general, circuit 420 and network 453 comprise monitoring circuit 469. With particular reference to FIG. 14, each parallel resistive element 455 of network 453 is schematically represented by one of RP1, RP2, RP3 … RPN-2, RPN-1, and RPN; where "N" is the total value of resistive element 455. So that the equivalent resistance R of network 453_NIt can be determined from the parallel resistance principle: r_N＝(1/RP1+1/RP2…1/RPN)^-1. Equivalent resistance R of network 453_NAnd a reference resistance R_RWith respect to a reference voltage V_RForming a voltage divider. Reference resistance R_RVoltage V across_iTo the a/D converter 324.

Substrate 451, layers 454a and 454b, and/or member 455 are provided with a material that is of interest to be consumed or transferred by a pest. Further, sensor 450 is configured such that pest consumption or displacement results in the electrical connection of resistive element 455 and network 453 being disconnected by the separation or displacement of one or more portions of sensor 450 relative to other portions of sensor 450 as described in relation to FIG. 13. FIG. 16 depicts a region 470 where material has been separated or displaced from the sensor 450, resulting in an open circuit of electrical connections. In fig. 16, cross-sectional profile 472 indicates the form factor of sensor 450 prior to pest activity. As more of the elements 455 are electrically opened, the equivalent resistance R of the network 453_NIncrease, cause V_iCorresponding change, V_iCorresponding change monitoring V with circuit 420_iTo determine differences in levels of activity relative to pest consumption or displacement.

In one embodiment, each resistive element 455 generally has the same resistance, as such: within the allowed error, RP1, RP2, RPN …. In other embodiments, resistive elements 455 may have substantially different resistances relative to each other. Configuring processor 426 to analyze V_iChanges indicate changes in consumption and transfer and transmit corresponding data to the data collection unit 390, discussed in connection with the system 300. Conductive layers 454a and 454b are coupled to circuit 420 using connections of elastomeric material suitable for engaging these surfaces or other means as would occur to those skilled in the art.

In addition to resistance, other electrical characteristics of the sensing element that change with pest consumption or displacement can be monitored to gather pest activity data. Referring to fig. 17-19, a pest control system 500 of another embodiment of the present invention is depicted; wherein like reference numerals refer to like features previously described. Pest control system 500 includes data collection unit 390 and pest control device 510. Pest control device 510 is comprised of circuitry 520 and sensor 550.

Referring particularly to FIG. 17, as previously described, circuit 520 includes a reference voltage V_RAn a/D converter 324, and a communication circuit 328. Circuitry 520 also includes a processor 526 coupled between converter 324 and communication circuitry 328. The processor 526 may be physically identical to the processor 326 of the system 300, but the processor 526 is configured to accommodate aspects of the system 500 that differ from the system 300. For example, processor 526 is operatively coupled to a plurality of switches 530a, 530b, and 530c via signal control paths 531a, 531b, and 531c, respectively. The processor 526 is configured to selectively open or close the switches 530a-530c by sending corresponding signals along the respective paths 531a-531 c. Each of the switches 530a-530c is schematically depicted as a single pole, single throw operable mechanism. The switches 530a-530c may be of a semiconductor type, such as Insulated Gate Field Effect Transistor (IGFET) devices, electromechanical types, combinations thereof, or other types as will occur to those of skill in the art.

Circuit 520 also includes a reference capacitor C coupled in parallel to switch 530C_RAnd a voltage Amplifier (AMP) 523. Voltage amplifier 523 amplifies input voltage V_QAnd providing an amplified output voltage V₀To a/D converter 324 to be selectively digitized.

In fig. 17, sensor 550 includes a sensing element 553a, which sensing element 553a is schematically represented in the form of a capacitance by electrode 554. In general, circuit 520 and sensor 550 define a monitoring circuit 569. Within the monitoring circuit 569, a reference voltage V_RSwitches 530a-530C, reference capacitor C_RAnd sensors 550 provide a sensing network 553. In the sensor network 553, a reference voltage V_RForming a branch that is electrically coupled to ground and one terminal of switch 530 a. The other terminal of switch 530a is electrically coupled to electrode 554 and a terminal of switch 554 b. The other terminal of switch 554b is coupled to the input of voltage amplifier 523, reference capacitor C, through a common electrical contact_RAnd a terminal of switch 530 c. Switch 530C is coupled in parallel with reference capacitor C_RBoth of which alsoWith a terminal connected to ground.

Referring also to fig. 18-19, sensor 550 has an end portion 555 opposite end portion 557 and is formed of multiple layers 560 including dielectric 551 and electrode 554. Dielectric 551 defines a surface 551a opposite surface 551 b. Electrode 554 includes a surface 554a in contact with surface 551 a. As noted, surface 551a and surface 554a are generally coextensive.

Sensor 550 is shown in FIG. 17 as a capacitor in an "open electrode" configuration; where electrical connection to ground is by way of dielectric 551 and possibly other substances such as an air gap between dielectric 551 and ground. In other words, sensor 550 does not include a predetermined path to ground-but rather allows for possible variation in coupling to ground. This dielectric coupling is symbolized by the dashed line representation 556 for the sensor 550 of fig. 17.

Dielectric 551 and/or electrode 554 are comprised of one or more materials that are consumed or displaced by a pest of interest. As pests consume or displace these materials, a portion of dielectric 551 and/or electrode 554 is displaced or separated relative to another portion. FIG. 19 depicts an area 570 that has been consumed or displaced by pests. Region 570 corresponds to cross-sectional profile 580 shown in fig. 18. This type of mechanical alteration of sensor 550 facilitates changing the ability of electrode 554 to hold charge Q and correspondingly change the capacitance C of sensor 550_S. For example, as the area of electrode surface 554a decreases, the associated charge holding capacity or capacitance of electrode 554 decreases. In another embodiment, the capacitance typically changes as the dielectric dimensions change or the dielectric composition changes. In further embodiments, changes in the distance between electrode 554 and ground due to the spacing or displacement of one or more portions of sensor 550 may affect the ability to hold charge.

Referring generally to fig. 17-19, one form of operational circuitry 520 is described below. For each measurement in this form, the following switching sequence is performed by processor 526: (1) close switch 530a while keeping switch 530b onIs turned on so that the reference voltage V_RIn parallel with sensor 550 such that charge Q is accumulated on electrode 554; (2) after this charging cycle, switch 530a is opened; (3) then, while switch 530C remains open, switch 530b is closed to transfer at least a portion of charge Q to reference capacitor C_R(ii) a And (4) after this transition, reopen switch 530 b. Amplifier 523 will correspond to a transfer to reference capacitance C_RElectric charge T of_QVoltage V of_QAmplified and represented as an input voltage to the a/D converter 324. The digitized input to the a/D converter 324 is provided to the processor 526 and/or stored in a memory (not shown). After measuring the voltage, reference capacitor C can be adjusted by closing and opening switch 530C with processor 526_RAnd resetting. The process is then complete. For sensor capacitance C_SMuch smaller than the reference capacitance C_R(C_S＜＜C_R) The following can be expressed by the equation: c_S＝C_R＊(V_Q/V_R) Simulating a reference capacitance C for this device_S。

Processor 526 may be configured to repeat this switching process from time to monitor Q and corresponding C_S. This data may be analyzed by processor 526 and communicated via the communication circuit using techniques described in connection with system 300. These cycles may be periodic or aperiodic; the requirements are met by other devices, such as communication circuit 328, or in different ways as will occur to those of skill in the art.

In an alternative embodiment, charge/capacitance monitoring in the form of pulses (bursts) may be used. For the pulse form, processor 526 is configured to repeat the following procedure: (1) closing switch 530a while keeping switch 530b open to charge electrode 554 and connect to reference capacitor C_RIsolation, (2) open switch 530a, and then (3) close switch 530b to transfer charge to reference capacitor C_R. Switch 530c remains open during these cycles in this fashion. Thus, the reference capacitance is not reset when cycling is performed. Once the desired number of cycles ("pulses") is completed, A/D converter 324 digitizes the input voltage. By enoughRapidly cycled, transferring from electrode 554 to reference capacitance C_RThe amount of charge Q of (a) increases. This increased charge transfer provides a relative increase in gain. Thus, the gain can be controlled by a large number of repetitions of each pulse being performed. Furthermore, a reference capacitance C_ROperating as an integrator to provide a degree of signal averaging.

In other alternative embodiments, network 560 may be operated to replace switch 530c with a resistor to facilitate parallel current monitoring to continuously repeat the pulse form sequence. For such an arrangement, switch 530C and reference capacitor C are used_RThe resistance of (a) defines a single-pole, low-pass filter. This continuous form has a "charge gain" (expressed as a potential difference per unit capacitance) which is represented by an equivalent resistance, a reference voltage V_RAnd the frequency of the cycling. In still other alternative embodiments, network 560 is modified to use an operational amplifier (opamp) integrator or inChargeTransfer SensingThe monopole equivalent of HalPhillip (dated 1977), incorporated herein by reference. In still other embodiments, different circuit arrangements may be used to measure the charge Q, the voltage V₀、C_SOr corresponds to C_SAs would be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

Electrode 554 can be electrically connected to circuit 520 with a connector of elastomeric material or a different type of connector as would occur to those skilled in the art. In alternative embodiments, sensor 550 may be configured to include a defined path to ground instead of an open-circuited electrode structure, or a combination of both approaches. Still other embodiments include stacked, wrapped, folded, bent or rotated versions of the variable electrode layer and a dielectric layer having one or more layers of material that is consumed or displaced by the pest of interest. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor may comprise two or more spaced electrodes or sensing capacitances arranged in series, parallel or a combination thereof in a network.

In other embodiments, electrode 554 of sensor 550 may be used to sense one or more characteristics in addition to pest consumption or movement. In one example, sensor 550 is provided to detect wear, abrasion, or erosion. With this configuration, sensor 550 is constructed of one or more materials configured to respond to wear from a particular mechanical activity that correspondingly changes the charge holding electrode capacitance 554. For example, when one or more portions are removed due to this activity, the surface area 554a of electrode 554 is reduced. When the change exceeds the threshold indicated by the sensor-monitored device requiring replacement or service, the use of the device is discontinued, the change may be monitored and reported by the surface area 554a of electrode 554, or other action may be taken as would occur to one skilled in the art.

In other examples, sensor 550 is constructed of one or more materials that isolate or otherwise reduce the charge holding capacitance in response to a change in the environmental conditions to which the one or more materials are exposed, a chemical reaction of the one or more materials, or in a different manner as would occur to those of skill in the art. For these non-pest embodiments, the operation of processor 526 can be varied accordingly. Also, a hard-wired connection, indicator and/or other device may be used as an additional or alternative communication circuit 328.

Referring generally to systems 300, 400, 500, one or more of the conductive, resistive, or capacitive elements of sensors 350, 450, 550 can be formed from a carbon-containing ink associated with pest control device 110 as described herein. In practice, inks with different volume resistances can be used to define different resistance values for different sensing elements, such as elements 353a and 453 a. Alternatively or additionally, different resistance values are defined by means of a change in the dimensions of the conductive material and/or applying different interconnecting members for the elements. Also, substrates 351, 451, and/or 551 can be comprised of paper coated with a polymeric compound, such as polyethylene, to reduce dimensional changes due to moisture as described with respect to pest control device 110.

FIG. 20 depicts a fifth type of pest control system 620 that includes pest control devices 310, 410, 510, and 610, where like reference numerals refer to like features previously described. The system 620 includes a building 622 housing a data collection unit 390. The system 620 also includes a central data collection location 626 connected to the data collection unit 390 via the communication channel 624. The communication channel 624 may be a hardwired connection through a computer network such as the internet, a dedicated telephone connection, a radio link, a combination of these, or such other types of connections as would occur to those skilled in the art.

For system 620, pest control device 310 is described in the ground for use in connection with system 20 as discussed. Pest control devices 410 and 510 of system 620 are positioned in building 622 and are shown at or above ground level. Pest control devices 310, 410, 510 are configured to communicate with data collection unit 390 via wireless means, hardwired means, via other devices such as handheld interrogator 30, or a combination of these.

Pest control device 610 is comprised of circuitry 420 and sensor 650 as previously described. Sensor 650 includes a network 453 of sensing elements 453 a. For sensor 650, network 453 is directly coupled to element 628 of building 622. Member 628 is constructed of one or more materials susceptible to damage by one or more pests. For example, member 628 can be comprised of wood when termites are the targeted type of pest. Accordingly, pest activity is monitored directly with pest control device 610 relative to element 628 of building 622. Like pest control devices 310, 410, and 510, pest control device 610 communicates with data collection unit 390 via wireless means, hardwired means, via other devices such as handheld interrogator 30, or a combination of these.

Central data collection location 626 can be connected to a number of data collection units 390, with data collection units 390 being configured to monitor different buildings or areas, each building or area having one or more pest control devices 110, 310, 410, 510, and/or 610.

FIG. 21 depicts pest control device system 720 of yet another embodiment of the present invention; wherein like reference numerals refer to like features previously described. System 720 includes interrogator 730 and pest control device 710. Pest control device 710 includes pest monitoring member 732 configured to be consumed or displaced by pests. In one example, element 732 is configured as a bait comprising a pest-edible material 734, such as wood in the case of termites, and a magnetic material 736 in the form of a coating on material 734. Magnetic material 736 may be a magnetic ink or paint applied to the wood core serving as material 734. In other examples, material 734 may be composed of a substance that is not a food source typically displaced or replaced by a target pest-such as a closed cell foam in the case of subterranean termites. In still other examples, material 734 may be composed of food and non-food components.

Device 710 further includes wireless communication circuitry 780 electrically coupled to magnetic signature sensor 790. Sensor 790 comprises a series of magnetoresistors 794 fixed in a predetermined orientation relative to element 732 to detect changes in resistance due to changes in the magnetic field produced by electromagnetic material 736. Thus, material 736 and magnetoresistor 794 can be selectively designated sensing element 753 a. The change in the monitored magnetic field can occur, for example, when element 732 is consumed, displaced, or otherwise displaced from element 732 by pests. Sensor 790 provides a means to identify the signal of element 732. In alternative embodiments, the sensor 790 may be based on a single magnetoresistor or alternative types of magnetic field sensing devices, such as Hall effect devices or magneto-resistive-based (reluctance-based) sensing units.

Magnetic field information from sensor 790 may be transmitted as variable data with 780 communication circuitry. Circuit 780 may further transmit the aforementioned unique device identifier and/or discrete bait status information for communication circuit 160. In practice, circuit 780, sensor 790, or both, are passive or active.

Interrogator 730 includes communication circuitry 735 operable to perform wireless communications with circuitry 780 of device 710. In one embodiment, circuits 780 and 790 are passive with circuit 780 being in the form of an RF tag like circuit 160. For this embodiment, communications circuit 735 is configured for wireless communication with device 710, as compared to circuits 32 and 34 of interrogator 30. In other embodiments, device 710 is adapted to alternatively or additionally include active wireless communication circuitry and/or a hardwired communication interface. For these alternatives, interrogator 730 is changed accordingly, a data collection unit may be used in place of interrogator 730, or a combination of the two approaches may be used.

Interrogator 730 includes controller 731, I/O port 737 and memory 738 which are identical to controller 36, I/O port 37 and memory 38 of interrogator 30, except that they are additionally configured to receive, process and store magnetic signature information or as optional discrete bait status and identifier information. It should be appreciated that resistive properties like devices 310, 410, and 610 or capacitive properties of device 510 may be evaluated; the magnetic signature information can be evaluated to characterize pest consumption behavior. This behavior can be used to establish predictions of bait replenishment needs and pest feeding patterns.

Fig. 22 depicts a system 820 of another embodiment of the present invention. System 820 includes pest control device 810 and data collector 830. Device 810 includes a monitoring element 832 configured to be consumed and/or displaced by a pest of interest. Element 832 includes an array 834 with magnetic material dispersed throughout. Material 836 is schematically represented in array 834 by a number of dots. The array 834 may have food ingredients, non-food ingredients, or a combination of these.

Device 810 may include a communication circuit 880 and a sensor circuit 890 coupled thereto. Circuit 890 includes a series of magnetoresistors 894 fixed relative to element 832 to detect changes in the magnetic field produced by material 836 as the material is consumed, displaced, or otherwise displaced from element 832.

Circuit 890 further includes a number of ambient (ENV) sensors 894a, 894b, 894c configured to sense temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure, respectively. Material 836 and sensors 894, 894a, 894b, and 894c are optionally designated as sensing element 853 a. The sensors 894, 894a, 894b, 894c are coupled to the substrate 838 and provide signals in digital or analog form that are compatible with the associated equipment. Accordingly, the circuit 890 is configured to condition and format the signals from the sensors 894a, 894b, 894 c. Moreover, circuit 890 conditions and formats signals corresponding to the detection of magnetic signatures by magnetoresistor 894. The sensed information provided by circuit 890 is transmitted to data collector 803 via communication circuit 880. Communication circuit 880 may include discrete bait status information, a device identifier, or both as described with respect to device 110. Each of circuits 880 and 890 may be passive, active, or a combination of both, adapted to communicate with data collector 830 accordingly in a selected manner.

For passive embodiments of RF tag technology based circuit 880, data collector 830 is configured the same as interrogator 30 except that the controller of data collector 830 is configured to process and store sensed information provided by a different form of circuit 890. In other embodiments, data collector 830 may be a standard active transmitter/receiver form to communicate with the active transmitter/receiver form of circuit 880. In still other embodiments, data collector 830 and device 810 are coupled by a hardwired interface to facilitate data exchange.

FIGS. 23 and 24 another embodiment of the present invention pest control device 1010; where like reference numerals refer to like features, pest control device 1010 includes communication circuit 1020, connector 1040, and sensor 1050 disposed in pest monitoring device 1060 as shown in fig. 23. Communication circuit 1020 includes an enabling device 1022 and an indicating device 1024 to output information. Communication circuit 1020 also includes other components that are assembled to provide circuit assembly module 1044. The module 1044 may include a printed circuit board to electrically connect the various components and/or other elements to mechanically support the communication circuit 1020. The module 1044 and corresponding communication circuitry 1020 are electrically and mechanically coupled to the sensor 1050 by connector 1040. Connector 1040 can comprise the electrically conductive elastomeric material described for connection member 140 of pest control device 110 and/or such different materials or configurations as would occur to one skilled in the art.

Sensor 1050 includes a substrate 1051 carrying pest sensing circuit 1052. Pest sensing circuit 1052 includes an electrically conductive loop or network that has an electrical resistance below a predetermined level when installed and the predetermined level is susceptible to change due to pest activity as previously described for conductor 153 of pest control device 110. Substrate 1051 and/or pest sensing circuit 1052 include materials that are typically displaced or consumed by one or more pests to be monitored by device 1060. When coupled to communication circuit 1020, pest sensing circuit 1052 cooperates therewith to provide monitoring circuit 1069.

Pest monitoring circuit 1060 further includes bait 1032, the surface of which is shown by the cross-sectional view in the lower portion of FIG. 23. Bait 1032 may be configured the same as bait 132 or variations thereof as previously described. In one embodiment, bait 1032 is in the form of at least two elements for bait member 132 positioned on opposite sides of sensor 1050 with respect to sensor 150 of pest control device 110 as described in connection with fig. 3 and 6.

Pest monitoring device 1060 is configured as a portable unit for installation in housing 1070 or removal from housing 1070. Housing 1070 may be the same shape as housing 170 described in relation to pest control device 110 and be constructed of a material suitable for installation on the ground. The sensor 1050 is secured relative to the circuit subassembly module 1044 by a connector 1040 that is in turn secured to a cap 1080 (partially shown). Carrier 1090 provides further mechanical support for device 1060, including one or more side members (not shown) connected to module 1044 and/or cap 1080. As depicted, cap 1080 can be configured to allow installation of devices 1022 and 1024 as compared to cap 180 of pest control device 110. Carrier 1090 may be configured relative to carrier 190 of pest control device 110 and may be permanently affixed or selectively attached thereto with respect to module 1044 and/or cap 1080.

In fig. 24, a communication circuit 1020 is shown in schematic form. Activation device 1022 is further shown in the form of a "normally open" push button switch 1022a, such that electrical contact is only made when switch 1022a is pressed in the direction indicated by arrow 1023. The indicating device 1024 may be in the form of a Light Emitting Diode (LED)1024a to selectively emit light to output information. Communication circuit 1020 is further configured to include a power supply 1025 configured to provide a generally constant voltage V, a resistor 1026 and an NPN transistor 1027 electrically coupled as shown in fig. 24.

Referring generally to fig. 23 and 24, the operation of pest control device 1010 is described below. Pest control device 1010 is configured for placement in an area for one or more pest monitoring of different pest control devices as described in FIGS. 2 and 20. Also, pest control device 1010 as described is adapted to be installed on the ground. In fact, in typical use, one or more pest control devices 1010 are installed at least partially below ground, keeping cap 1080 accessible.

Once installed, the operator activates the operation of communication circuit 1020 (and corresponding monitoring circuit 1069) by depressing switch 1022 a. In response, emitter 1027e of transistor 1027 is grounded with respect to the voltage provided by power supply 1025. With emitter 1027e grounded, LED 1024a will emit light when transistor 1027 is activated, with the result that the voltage from power supply 1025 drops through LED 1024a and the collector 1027c and emitter 1027e terminals of transistor 1027. If the electrical connection between power source 1025 and base 1027b of transistor 1027 represents a voltage level to base 1027b sufficient to enable transistor 1027, transistor 1027 is enabled with switch 1022a closed. This electrical connection includes resistor 1026 and the resistance of pest sensing circuit 1052 in series. Thus, for pest sensing circuit 1052 whose resistance is at or below a given threshold, if switch 1022a is pressed, LED 1024a is illuminated. However, as pests consume or move substrate 1051 and/or pest sensing circuit 1052, the resulting circuit change may result in a sufficient increase in resistance or open circuit condition such that transistor 1027 is no longer activated by pressing switch 1022a and, accordingly, LED 1024a will not emit light.

By operating communication circuit 1020, LED 1024a provides a two-state signal that visually indicates whether the electrical connection/resistance of pest sensing circuit 1052 has changed, which can be used to determine when to reconfigure pest control device 1010 to add pesticide, to exchange pest monitoring device 1060 with a pesticide delivery device, and/or to activate other actions. Such other actions may include additional equipment with or without insecticide. In yet another embodiment, pest control device 1010 is configured to initially include a bait filled pesticide such that communication circuit 1020 provides information indicative of pesticide consumption.

For one embodiment of the present invention, resistor 1026 is rated at approximately 10000 ohms, power supply 1025 provides a generally stable output of three volts and is in the form of one or more electrochemical cells (i.e., "batteries"), transistor 1027 is of the standard bipolar junction switch type, and pest sensing circuit 1052 is an electrically conductive loop as described in connection with pest control device 110. In other embodiments, the values of power supply 1025, resistor 1026, and/or the characteristics of transistor 1027 may be different. Such alternative means may include PNP bipolar junction transistors, Field Effect Transistors (FETs), electromechanical relays, or Solid State Relays (SSRs), just to name a few of the possible cases, in place of NPN transistors 1027 of the respective adjustment circuits 1020. Alternatively or additionally, power source 1025 may be in a form other than a battery, may be external to device 1010 and/or may be selectively applied to device 1010 by an operator.

Alternatively or additionally, the monitoring circuitry 1069 may be adapted to communicate different information about the device. For example, additional subcircuitry may be included to test whether the voltage source is operational. In another embodiment, manual interrogation of pest sensing circuitry with activation device 1022 and output with device 1024 can be added to the wireless communication circuitry of the previously described pest control device to provide a manually triggered operational test. In yet another example, manual interrogation techniques are used to output various non-zero degrees of pest consumption or displacement. Thus, quantification of information (quantification) of the amount of consumption or transfer can be achieved in response to manual stimulation. For these embodiments, sensing means of devices 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, and/or 810 with appropriate modifications may be used to communication circuit 1020 to provide for actuation of switches or other operator input devices. In one form, a plurality of LEDs or other visual display devices output varying non-zero levels of consumption. In yet another form, a single two-state indicating LED is used; however, a threshold level is set that corresponds to a given non-zero degree of consumption or diversion. Such thresholds may be factory set and/or set by operator control.

In further embodiments, an activation device other than the normally-open switch 1022a may alternatively or additionally be used. In one example, the enabling device is in the form of a wireless RF receiving circuit. In other examples, the activation device is in the form of a switch having more than two states or such different forms as would occur to one skilled in the art. For other embodiments, an indicator device other than an LED may be used. Such indicators may be visual, audible, a combination thereof or such different forms as would occur to one skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the identification device is an incandescent lamp or an electromechanical indicator. In other examples, the indicating device is in the form of an RF signal transmitter that outputs information provided by monitoring circuitry 1069 in response to activation of activating device 1022. In still other forms, activation device 1022, indication device 1024, and/or other features of communication circuit 1020 may be provided in the form of a signal transponder, which may be active or passive in nature. In yet another form, activation device 1022, indication device 1024, and/or other features of communication circuitry 1020 are configured as a unit that may or may not be engaged with the rest of device 1010 via a connector or other means. For this form, such a unit may be used to interrogate multiple devices 1010 by manually engaging and disengaging each of the multiple devices 1010 in a desired sequence. In a further variation, such a unit may be configured to retain information from multiple devices 1010.

FIG. 25 depicts pest control system 1100 of another embodiment of the present invention, where like reference numerals refer to like features. Pest control system 1100 includes a magnetically actuable device in the form of an operator-controlled wand 1102, wand 1102 including a body 1104 with an operator handle 1106 and a magnetic field source 1108. Magnetic field source 1108 in FIG. 25 provides magnetic field MF, which is symbolized. To give some examples, the magnetic field source 1108 may be provided by a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

System 1100 also includes pest control device 1110. Referring additionally to FIG. 26, pest control device 1110 includes a communication circuit 1120, a connector 1040, and a sensor 1150 configured in pest monitoring arrangement 1160. Communications circuitry 1120 includes device 1122 and indicators 1136 and 1138 that respond to magnetic field MF when in close proximity thereto to output information. The communication circuit 1120 also includes other components that are assembled to provide a circuit subassembly module 1144. The module 1144 may include a printed circuit board to electrically connect various components and/or other elements to mechanically support the communications circuitry 1120. Module 1144 and corresponding communication circuit 1120 are electrically and mechanically coupled to the sensor via connector 1040 as previously described in connection with pest control device 1010.

Sensor 1150 includes a substrate 1051 carrying pest sensing circuitry 1152. Pest sensing circuit 1152 comprises a conductive loop or network having a resistance, represented in FIG. 26 by R1, which is below a predetermined level when installed and which is susceptible to alteration due to pest activity as previously described with respect to conductor 153 of pest control device 110. Substrate 1051 and/or pest sensing circuit 1152 comprise materials monitored with device 1160 that are typically displaced or consumed by one or more pests. When coupled to communication circuit 1120, pest sensing circuit 1152 provides monitoring circuit 1169 therewith. Pest control device 1160 further includes bait 1032 as previously described with respect to apparatus 1010, a surface of which is shown by the cross-sectional view of the lower portion of FIG. 25.

Pest monitoring device 1160 is configured as a portable unit for installation in housing 1070 and removal from housing 1070 for apparatus 1010 as previously described. The sensor 1150 is secured relative to the circuit subassembly module 1144 by a connector 1040 that is in turn secured to a cover 1180 (partially shown). Also, as described for device 1010, element 1090 provides further mechanical support for apparatus 1160, including one or more side elements (not shown) connected to module 1144 and/or cover 1180. As depicted, cover 1180 can be configured to correspond to cover 1080 of pest control device 1010 to mount devices 1136 and 1138.

In fig. 26, the communication circuit 1120 is shown in schematic form. The enabling device 1122 is further shown in the form of a "normally-on" switch 1123, such that switch 1123 is closed only as long as device 1122 is energized by magnetic field MF as shown in FIG. 25. Selectively illuminated indicators 1136 and 1138 may be provided for communication circuit 1120, each indicator 1136 and 1138 having the form of an LED. The communication circuit 1120 further includes a power supply 1125 provided to supply a constant voltage VS, resistors R2-R4, and comparators 1132 and 1134, which are electrically connected as shown in fig. 26.

Referring generally to fig. 25 and 26, the operation of pest control device 1110 is described below. Pest control devices 1110 are configured for placement in an area to be monitored for one or more pests as described with respect to the various pest control devices of FIGS. 2 and 20. Also, pest control device 1110 as described is adapted to be installed on the ground. In fact, in typical use, one or more pest control devices 1110 are installed at least partially below ground level, leaving cap 1180 at least partially visible.

Once control apparatus 1110 is installed, an operator approaches cover 1180 through wand 1102, aligning magnetic field MF and device 1122 in a manner accordingly sufficient to activate device 1122 to energize operation of communication circuitry 1120 (and corresponding monitoring circuitry 1169) such that switch 1123 is closed. With switch 1123 closed, power source 1125 is electrically coupled to the other components of communication circuit 1120 through electrical contacts 1126. Resistors R2 and R3 are configured as a voltage divider that provides a reference voltage VREF to the inverting (-) of comparator 1132 and the non-inverting (+) of comparator 1134, while switch 1123 couples the voltage VS of source 1125 to the junction of circuit 1126. Resistor R4 and the resistance of pest sensing device 1152, designated R1, also form a voltage divider that is electrically parallel to the voltage divider formed by R2 and R3. The sense voltage VSENSE is applied to the non-inverting (+) input of comparator 1132 and to the inverting (-) input of comparator 1134. When switch 1123 is closed, the R2/R3 and R1/R4 voltage dividers are coupled between VS and electrical ground.

Prior to any change in pest sensing circuit 1152, the relative resistance values of the four resistors R1-R4 are selected such that VREF is rated greater than VSENSE. Assuming that the impedances of inverting (-) and non-inverting (+) of comparators 1132 and 1134 are infinite (typically close to reasonable values of R1-R4, with each of R1-R4 being less than 1 megaohm), then VREF-VS (R3/(R2+ R3) and VSENSE-VS (R1/R1+ R4).

When VREF is greater than VSENSE (VREF > VSENSE), the output of comparator 1134 is in a high state and the output of comparator 1132 is in a low state. For this condition, the voltage across LED 1124 of indicator 1136 appears as VS, which causes it to emit light if it is large enough. Conversely, the turn-on voltage is not provided to LED 1124 of indicator 1138, preventing it from emitting light.

However, as pest activity increases, resistance R1 of pest sensing circuit 1152 increases. If R1 exceeds R3, then VSENSE becomes greater than VREF (VSENSE > VREF) and comparators 1132 and 1134 output state transitions. In contrast, indicator 1138 is illuminated while indicator 1136 is not illuminated, which provides information showing a change in the state of pest controller circuit 1152 as compared to the condition VREF > VSENSE. Whenever the magnetic field MF is separated from device 1122 by moving wand 1102 or other means, switch 1123 opens, diverting VS from contact 1126 and deactivating communication circuit 20, such that neither indicator 1136 nor 1138 is illuminated.

Through operation of communication circuit 1120, a two-state signal is provided with indicators 1136 and 1138, each visually indicating whether the electrical connection/resistance of pest controller circuit 1152 has changed relative to an established threshold. This two-state signal can be used to determine when to reconfigure pest control device 1110 to add insecticide, to exchange pest monitoring device 1160 with an insecticide delivery device, and/or to take another action. Such other actions include installing additional equipment with or without pesticides. In still further embodiments, pest control device 1110 is configured to initially include a pesticide filled with bait such that communication circuit 1120 provides an informational cue of pesticide consumption.

For one embodiment of the present invention, before being altered by pests, resistors R2 and R4 are rated at 330000 ohms, resistor R3 is rated at 25000 ohms, and the resistance of pest sensing circuit 1152 is rated at about 15000 ohms (R1). For this embodiment, power supply 1125 provides a generally stable three (3) volt output and is in the form of one or more electrochemical cells (i.e., "batteries"), comparators 1132 and 1134 are each of the LM339 type, device 1122 is in the form of a magnetically activated reed switch, indicator 1136 is in the form of a green LED, and indicator 1138 is in the form of a red LED. In other embodiments, power source 1125, the resistance value represented by any of resistors R1-R4, device 1122, indicators 1136 and 1138, and/or comparators 1132 and 1134 may vary. In an alternative embodiment, VREF is provided by a reference voltage rather than a voltage divider. For example, zener diodes, bandgap references, and/or regulator components may be used instead, to name just a few.

In addition to the magnetically actuated reed switch form device 1122, other magnetically actuated devices may be used, such as one or more Hall effect sensors, electromechanical actuation components, an inductive coil responsive to an applied magnetic field, or such different device types as would occur to one skilled in the art. Alternatively or additionally, the activation is performed with the device in a plurality of operational states.

In other embodiments, only a single indicator is used. For this form of embodiment, the LED is illuminated when pest activity is detected or not detected, but not both. For other versions of this embodiment, instead of two discrete LED components, a multi-color LED type is used. For other embodiments, one or more indicators may be used in place of the LEDs. Such indicators may be visual, audible, a combination of these, or of such different types as would occur to those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the indicator is an incandescent lamp or an electromechanical indicator. In other examples, the indicating device is in the form of an RF signal transmitter that outputs information provided by monitoring circuitry 1169 in response to excitation by magnetic field MF. It should be appreciated that the magnetic field MF may be a magnetic field component of electromagnetic radiation that varies over time.

In still other forms, devices 1122, indicators 1136 and 1138 and/or other features of communication circuit 1120 are provided in the form of signal emitters that may be active or passive. In yet another form, the device 1122, the source 1125, the indicators 1136 and 1138, and/or other features of the configuration communication circuit 1120 are provided as a unit that may or may not be engaged with the rest of the device 1110 by a connector or other means. For this form, such a unit may be used to interrogate multiple devices 1110 in a desired order by manually engaging/disengaging each of the multiple devices 1110. In a further variation, such a unit may be configured to retain information from multiple devices 1110.

Additional embodiments include circuitry and/or components other than comparators to provide the desired output state of the indicatable state of pest sensing circuit 1152. For example, one or more transistors, logic devices, etc. corresponding to a change in the state of pest sensing circuit 1152 can be used. Alternatively or additionally, power source 1125 may be in a form other than a battery, may be external to device 1110 and/or may be selectively applied to device 1110 by an operator. In an alternative example, magnetic field excitation MF is of a variable type, and communication circuitry 1120 is configured to derive operating power therefrom in addition to, or instead of, power source 1125.

Alternatively or additionally, monitoring circuitry 1169 may be adapted to communicate different information about the device. For example, additional subcircuitry may be included to test whether power source 1125 is operational. In other examples, manual interrogation of pest sensing circuitry with wand 1102 and corresponding output with an indicator to the wireless communication circuitry of the previously described pest control device can be added to provide an operable trigger test. In yet another example, the manual interrogation technique demonstrated at device 1110 is utilized to output different non-zero degrees of pest consumption or displacement. Thus, information quantifying the number of pest consumption or displacement can be obtained in response to the stimulus. For this embodiment, a sensor device arrangement having devices 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, and/or 810 in appropriate cooperation with communication circuit 1120 may be utilized to provide actuation via magnetic actuation means or other operator input means. In one such form, a plurality of LEDs or other visible display output consumes varying non-zero degrees. In still other forms, a single two-state indicating LED is utilized; however, a threshold level is set that corresponds to a given non-zero degree of consumption or diversion. This threshold may be factory set and/or set by operator control.

FIG. 27 depicts pest control system 1200 of another embodiment of the present invention where like reference numerals refer to like features. System 1200 also includes pest control device 1210. Referring additionally to FIG. 28, pest control device 1210 includes circuitry 1220, connector 1040, and sensor 1250 disposed in pest monitoring arrangement 1260. The circuit 1220 includes a pointing device 1230. The device 1230 includes indicators 1136 and 1138 in the form of LEDs 1124 as previously described. Circuitry 1220 also includes one or more other components configured to provide a circuit subassembly module 1244. Module 1244 may include a printed circuit board to provide various electrical connections and/or other components to mechanically support circuitry 1220. As previously described, module 1244 and corresponding circuitry 1220 are electrically and mechanically coupled to sensor 1250 via connector 1040.

Sensor 1250 includes a substrate 1051 carrying pest sensor circuit 1252. Pest sensor circuit 1252 includes a conductive loop or network having a resistance, represented in FIG. 28 by R1. This resistance R1 is below a predetermined level when pest control device 1210 is installed and susceptible to change due to pest activity pest control device 1210 as described previously with respect to conductor 153 of pest control device 110. Substrate 1252 and/or pest sensing circuit 1252 include materials that are typically displaced or consumed by one or more pests to be monitored with device 1260. When coupled to circuitry 1220, pest sensing circuit 1252 provides monitoring circuitry 1269 therewith. Pest control device 1260 further includes bait 1032 as previously described with respect to apparatus 1010, a surface of which is shown by the cross-sectional view of the lower portion of FIG. 27.

As previously described for apparatus 1010, a portable unit for mounting pest monitoring device 1260 in housing 1070 and for removal from housing 1070 is configured. Sensor 1250 is secured relative to circuit subassembly module 1244 by connector 1040, which in turn is secured to cover 1280 (partially shown). Also, as described for apparatus 1010, element 1090 provides further mechanical support for arrangement 1260, including one or more side elements (not shown) connected to module 1244 and/or cover 1280. Cover 1280 can be configured to correspond to cover 1080 of pest control device 1010, and indicators 1136 and 1138 can be installed to be visible to an operator from external device 1210.

In fig. 28, a circuit 1220 is shown in schematic form. Each of indicators 1136 and 1138 of device 1230 can be selectively illuminated by circuitry 12220. The circuit 12220 further comprises a power supply 1225 arranged to provide a generally constant voltage, and a controller unit 1240 operatively coupled to the power supply 1225 and the indicator device 1230.

Controller circuit 1240 is selectively coupled to pest sensing circuit 1252 through connector 1040. Controller circuitry 1240 may be comprised of one or more components of a digital type, an analog type, a type as would occur to those skilled in the art, or a combination of these. In one form, the controller circuitry 1240 is based on a solid state integrated circuit device. For example, the controller circuit 1240 is schematically depicted in fig. 28 as a single integrated circuit device ICI. The described embodiment corresponds to a microcontroller from microchip technology Inc (microchip technology Inc) model number PIC12C5 XX. This form of microcontroller is a programmable type, having a Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) processor and including one or more forms of memory. Power supply 1225 may include one or more electrochemical cells (e.g., conventional batteries) that provide approximately three (3) volts Direct Current (DC) voltage, which is coupled between contacts VDD and VSS to provide power for ICI in the described embodiments. Connector 1040 couples the junctions of GP4/OSC2 and GP3/MCLR/VPP across ICI; device 1230 is coupled to contacts GP1, GP0 and GP2/TOCK 1. The PIC12C5XX series of data sheets for microprocessors are incorporated herein by reference. Alternatively or additionally, in other embodiments, different types of controller circuits of the programmable or non-programmable type as would occur to those of skill in the art may be used.

Referring generally to fig. 27 and 28, the operation of pest control device 1210 is described below. Pest control device 1210 is configured for placement in an area for one or more pest monitoring of a variety of pest control devices as described in connection with FIGS. 2 and 20. Also, as depicted, pest control device 1210 is adapted to be mounted on the ground. In fact, in typical use, one or more pest control devices 1210 are installed at least partially below ground level, leaving cover 1280 at least partially visible.

To conserve power, circuit 1220 can be configured so that it is not activated until circuit 1220 is electrically coupled to pest sensing circuit 1252 through connector 1040. For example, this coupling can cause the closure of a conductive pathway (e.g., pathway 1226 shown in FIG. 28) that triggers activation. In one form, the switch can be triggered by inserting pest sensing circuit 1252 into connector 1040 and/or providing pest sensing circuit 1252 to an auxiliary resistance to close the electrical path. Alternatively or additionally, the circuit 12220 may be activated by an operator, such as a manual switch mounted to the cap 1280; a magnetic or electromagnetic activation signal; 310. 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, or 1110; and/or installed to operate without a specific start-up requirement.

Once activated and installed, controller circuit 1240 of pest control device 1210 operates on a continuous basis, a periodic basis, and/or a periodic basis to automatically monitor the status of pest sensing circuit 1252. Controller circuitry 1240 is further operable to detect a change in state of pest sensing circuit 1252 from a first state to a second state. In one embodiment, the first state may correspond to a closed circuit when the resistance R1 is below an established threshold and the second state corresponds to an electrically open circuit when the resistance R1 is above an established threshold. In other examples, controller circuitry 1240 may be used to monitor/detect one or more different parameters, such as capacitance, inductance, and/or magnetic field characteristics (only a few names named), and corresponding state changes of pest sensing circuit 1252 defined with respect to one or more different parameters as resistances and/or other or alternative to open/close and circuit conditions.

For the first state of pest sensing circuit 1252, controller circuit 1240 outputs a signal through contact GP0 to indicator 1136 (one of LEDs 1124) of device 1230 to cause it to illuminate while indicator 1138 (the other LED 1124) of device 1230 remains unlit. This condition can be considered a first light emitting structure of the device 1230. By adjusting its output, controller circuit 1240 ceases to illuminate indicator 1136 and begins to illuminate indicator 1138 via the output of contact P2/TOCK1 in response to the detection of a change in state of pest sensing circuit 1252 from the first state to the second state.

In one form, indicator 1136 is a green LED 1124 that, for the first light emitting configuration, is intermittently illuminated in a flashing fashion and/or varying intensity of illumination by pulsing the output of controller circuitry 1240; for the second light emitting configuration, indicator 1138 is a red LED 1124 that is pulsed with an output from controller circuitry 1240 to emit light intermittently in a blinking pattern and/or to vary the intensity of the emitted light. In other forms, the illumination may be constant for a given state; the type of color of the light emitting indicator may vary; and/or the structure of the light emission may be different.

It should be appreciated that when power from power supply 1225 is no longer available, neither indicator 1136 nor indicator 1138 will illuminate, indicating that the power supply is dead. Monitoring of pest sensing circuit 1252, detection of a change in status, adjustment of one or more output signals from controller circuit 1240 to device 1230, or other operations can be performed in accordance with operating logic executed by controller circuit 1240. Such operating logic may be in the form of programmed instructions, dedicated circuitry, a combination of these, and/or in such different forms as would occur to one skilled in the art. By way of non-limiting example, for the PIC12C5XX controller embodiment described above, at least a portion of the operating logic is in the form of programmed instructions stored in a resident, non-volatile memory.

Through operation of circuitry 1220, indicators 1136 and 1138 provide two-state signals, each of which visually indicates whether the electrical connection/resistance of pest sensing circuit 1252 has changed relative to an established threshold. This two-state signal can be used to determine when to reconfigure pest control device 1210 to add pesticide, exchange pest monitoring device 1260 with a pesticide delivery device, and/or activate other actions. These other actions may include installing additional equipment with or without the insecticide. In still other embodiments, pest control device 1210 is configured to begin including pesticide filled with bait such that communication circuit 1220 provides an informational indication of pesticide consumption.

In other embodiments, only a single indicator is used with the device 1230. For one form of this embodiment, the LED is illuminated when pest activity is detected or not detected, but not both. For other forms of this embodiment, a multi-colored LED type indicator is used instead of two discrete LED components. For other embodiments, one or more indicators may be used in place of the LEDs. Such indicators may be visual, audible, a combination thereof or such different forms as would occur to one skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the identification means is in the form of an incandescent lamp or an electromechanical indicator. In other examples, the indicating device is in the form of an RF signal transmitter that outputs information provided by monitoring circuitry 1269 in response to the stimulus.

In still other forms, 1220, power source 1225, indicators 1136 and 1138, and/or other features of configuration circuitry 1220 are provided as a unit that can be engaged and disengaged with the rest of device 1210 by way of a connector or otherwise. For this form, each such unit can be used to interrogate multiple devices 1210 by manually engaging/disengaging multiple devices 1210 in a desired sequence. In another variation, such a unit may be configured to retain information from multiple devices 1210.

In other embodiments, the power source 1225 can be in a form other than a battery, can be external to the device 1210, and/or can be selectively applied to the device 1210 by an operator. Alternatively or additionally, monitoring circuitry 1269 may be adapted to communicate different information about the device. In other embodiments, controller circuitry 1240 and device 1230 can be added to the wireless communication circuitry of pest control devices previously described. Controller circuit 1240 is adapted to output an indication corresponding to a different, non-zero degree of pest consumption or movement of bait 1032 and/or corresponding to a change in pest sensing circuit 1252. Thus, information may be quantified as to the number of changes, consumptions, and/or transitions. For such embodiments, the sensor devices of devices 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, and/or 810 may be used with appropriately modified circuitry 1220. In one such form, the plurality of LEDs or other viewable display output varies the non-zero degree of consumption. In still other forms, a single two-state indicating LED is used; however, a threshold level is set that corresponds to a non-zero degree of change, consumption and/or diversion given. This threshold may be factory set and/or operator set.

In other embodiments, pest control device 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, or 1210 can include one or more bait members 132 as described in connection with pest control device 110 of system 20. Also, 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210 may be configured to be placed underground, on the ground, or above the ground. In other embodiments, pest control devices are adapted to be combined with the sensing technology of two or more pest control devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, or 1210. Additionally or alternatively, two or more different types of pest control devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210 can be used to monitor pest activity and/or to deliver pesticides in a general area.

In other embodiments, pest control devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210 can be configured to be completely or partially replaced with a pesticide delivery device upon detection of a pest. Such replacement may include moving a communication circuit module or other circuitry from the pest monitoring device for incorporation into the pesticide delivery device. In other embodiments, any of pest control devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210 can be configured to simultaneously monitor pest activity. Alternatively or additionally, pest control devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210 can be configured to automatically deliver pesticides upon detection of a given degree of pest consumption or movement. For such devices, delivery may be triggered automatically based on monitored data and/or by external commands received by the communication circuit.

FIG. 29 is a flow chart depicting a procedure 920 according to yet another embodiment of the invention. In step 922 of procedure 920, data is collected from one or more devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and/or 1210. In step 924, the collected data is analyzed based on environmental conditions and/or location. Next, pest activity is predicted by the analysis in step 926. In accordance with the prediction of step 926, action is taken in step 928 which may include the installation of one or more additional devices.

Next, loop 930 advances to step 932. At step 932, data collection from the device continues and at step 934 pest activity prediction is improved. Control then flows to conditional 936 which detects whether to continue procedure 920. If procedure 920 is to continue, loop 930 loops back to step 932. If routine 920 terminates, then it is interrupted, as tested by conditional 936.

Examples of other actions that may additionally or alternatively be taken include the application of pest behavior patterns to better determine the direction in which pests may extend in a given area, according to step 928. Thus, a warning based on this prediction may be provided. And advertising and marketing of pest control systems that can be targeted based on procedure 920 are more likely to benefit. Moreover, this information can be evaluated to determine whether the need for pest control maintenance according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is seasonally changing. The allocation of pest control resources, such as equipment or personnel, can be adjusted accordingly. Also, the efficiency of placement of the pest control device can be enhanced.

In other alternative embodiments, devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210, and corresponding interrogators, data collection units, and data collectors, may be used in various other system combinations as will occur to those of skill in the art. While interrogator 30 and wand 1102 are each shown in manual form, in other embodiments such interrogation devices may be in a different manner, onboard or mounted in a generally permanent location. In practice, a data collection unit may be used to interrogate/receive information directly from a pest control device. Also, while the bait for devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210 may be provided in a form suitable for termite consumption, the type of bait selected to control different types of termites, insects, or non-insects, and the devices containing and adjusting other characteristics tailored to suit the monitoring and extermination of different types of pests may be selected. Also, the bait for devices 110, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1010, 1110, and 1210 can be a material selected to attract a target pest species that is not substantially consumed by the pest. In an alternative example, one or more of the pest control devices includes non-food material that is moved or altered by the target pest. By way of non-limiting example, this type of material may be used to form a non-consumable sensing element substrate with or without a consumable bait element. Moreover, any of the pest control devices of the present invention may include one or more components impregnated with polyurethane or other suitable values or coated with resin or other suitable resin to reduce moisture ingress. In an alternative embodiment depicted in fig. 3-5, the inner rim 123 of the housing 120 is absent and the O-ring 124 is absent. For this alternative embodiment, substrate 130 is ultrasonically welded to cover casing 120, and a urethane potting material is used to fill any unfilled space remaining in cavity 122 after circuit housing 118 is encapsulated to reduce contact with moisture and circuitry 160. It should be understood, however, that in other embodiments of the invention, it is not appropriate to stop moisture or other substances in this manner, and may be done in a different manner as would occur to those skilled in the art, or not at all.

In yet another alternative example, one or more pest control devices according to the present invention do not have a housing, such as housing 170 or housing 1070 (and corresponding cap 180, cap 1180, or cap 1280). Rather, for this embodiment, the housing contents may be placed directly on the ground, on an element of the building to be monitored, or in a different configuration as would occur to those skilled in the art. Also, any of the pest control devices of the present invention can be selectively positioned such that bait consumption or displacement of the sensing element causes movement of the conductor to close the electrical pathway rather than causing an open circuit.

Wireless communication technology based pest control devices may alternatively or additionally include hard-wired communications to interrogators, data collection units, data collectors, or other such devices as would occur to those of skill in the art. Hard-wired communication may be used as an alternative wireless communication for authentication purposes when wireless communication is hampered by local conditions or when a hard-wired connection is otherwise desirable. Moreover, the processes 220 and 920 may be performed with different steps, operations, and conditions reordered, altered, rearranged, substituted, eliminated, combined, or augmented by other processes that may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Another embodiment of the present invention includes providing a sensor that is at least partially consumed or displaced by one or more pests and a circuit responsive to the sensor consumption or displacement that provides a first signal representative of a first non-zero degree of consumption or displacement and a second signal representative of a second non-zero degree of consumption or displacement. In one form, consumption or displacement of the sensor is detected by circuitry responsive to a corresponding change in the electrical/magnetic characteristic. In other forms, consumption or displacement is detected by an electrical circuit, rather than a pest sensing or monitoring member comprising a magnetic material, to provide a changing magnetic field in response to displacement from the magnetic material of the member by one or more pests. This form may be based on monitoring corresponding to changes in the electrical characteristics of the sensor as it is consumed or displaced.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a pest control device includes an electrical circuit including a plurality of electrically coupled sensing elements configured for consumption or displacement by one or more species of pest. Each of the sensing elements corresponds to a different one of the plurality of resistive channels. The circuit is responsive to one or more changes in the sensing member to provide information representative of the extent of pest consumption or displacement.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a sensing device includes an element operable to be consumed or displaced by one or more pests in an electrical circuit including an electrode disposed relative to the element. During consumption or displacement of the element, the capacitance of the electrode changes, and the circuit responds to this change to provide an output representative of pest consumption or displacement of the element.

Still other embodiments include: operating a pest control device comprising an electrical circuit provided with a sensor at least partially consumed or displaced by one or more species of pest; establishing a first non-zero degree of depletion or displacement in response to separation of a first portion of the circuit responsive sensor; and determining a second non-zero degree of consumption or displacement in response to separation of the second portion of the sensor after separation of the first portion.

Another embodiment of the present invention includes a pest control device having a pest-edible bait with a magnetic material element. This magnetic element provides a magnetic field. The magnetic field varies in response to consumption of the pest edible bait member. The apparatus further includes means operable to generate a monitoring signal corresponding to a change in the magnetic field.

In yet another embodiment, a pest control device includes a pest bait that encapsulates an environmental sensor and circuitry that is operable to communicate information corresponding to an environmental characteristic detected with the sensor and a status of the bait.

Another embodiment includes a member operable to be consumed or displaced by one or more pests and a circuit including an element carrying the member. The circuit applies a potential difference to the element and the element is operatively changeable according to the degree of consumption or transfer of the element. The element is constructed of an electrically conductive, non-metallic material.

In another embodiment, a pest control device includes a member to be consumed or displaced by one or more species of pest and an electrical circuit including an element carrying the member. The circuit defines a conductive path through the element and the element varies according to the degree of consumption or displacement of the component. The element is constructed of a material having a volume resistivity of at least 0.001 ohm-cm.

Another embodiment system includes a plurality of pest control devices. Each of these devices includes an electrical circuit having at least one component defining a current carrying path through the material of the respective component. Such materials include carbon.

Yet another embodiment of the invention comprises: installing a pest control device including a wireless communication circuit electrically connected to the sensor; detecting the presence of one or more pests with a pest control device; and reconfiguring the pest control device in response to the detecting. Such reconfiguration includes directing the pesticide bait member to a pest control device having a wireless communication circuit and adjusting the position of the wireless communication circuit.

In still other embodiments, a pest control system includes a housing, a monitoring bait member, a sensor, a wireless communication circuit, and a pesticide bait member. A monitoring bait member, a sensor, and wireless communication may be provided in the first assembly for positioning in the housing for monitoring one or more pests. Alternatively, the pesticide bait member and wireless communication circuit may be disposed in a second assembly that is not identical to the first assembly, wherein the second assembly is located in the housing in place of the first assembly after pest detection with the first assembly.

In other embodiments, the device includes a housing, circuitry in communication with the housing, and a sensing element. The sensing element is engaged with the housing and includes a conductor comprising carbon ink. A connector may be included to couple the sensing element to the circuit. The connector may be constructed of an electrically conductive elastomeric material. Alternatively, the monitoring bait member and/or the pesticide bait member may be part of the same assembly.

In another embodiment, a pest control device includes an electrical circuit coupled to one or more sensing elements with one or more connections of an elastomeric material. The one or more elastomeric connectors may comprise a carbon-containing synthetic compound, such as silicone rubber.

For yet another embodiment, a pest control device includes a bait operable to be consumed or displaced by one or more pests, a pest sensing circuit proximate the bait, and an indicator. Also included is a controller circuit operatively coupled to the pest sensing circuit and to an indicator device that monitors the pest sensing circuit, detects a change in state of the pest sensing circuit, and provides one or more signals corresponding to the change in state. The indicator device changes its output in response to the one or more signals. This embodiment may further include a structure operable to at least partially enclose bait, a pest sensing circuit, and a controller circuit; which is further arranged to position at least a portion of the indicator device for viewing by an operator. In one form, the indicator device is formed from two light emitting members, wherein one of the members is at least intermittently illuminated prior to a change of state and the other of the members is at least intermittently illuminated after the change of state. Other embodiments include systems comprising several such pest control devices.

Still other embodiments include: installing a plurality of pest control devices, each pest control device including a respective bait for one or more species of pest, a respective pest sensing circuit, a respective indicator arrangement, and a respective controller circuit; indicating a first state of one of the pest control devices with a respective indicator device; detecting a change in a state of a respective pest sensing circuit with a respective controller circuit; adjusting one or more output signals from the respective controller circuits in response to the state change; and indicating a second state of one of the pest control devices with the respective indicator arrangement in response to the adjustment.

All publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, and patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and set forth in its entirety herein, including but not limited to U.S. patent application No. 09/925392 filed on 8-9-2001, international application No. PCT/US00/26373 filed on 9-25-2000, international patent application No. PCT/US99/16519 filed on 7-21-1999, U.S. patent application No. 09/669316 filed on 9-25-2000, and U.S. patent application No. 09/812302 filed on 3-20-2001. And any theory, mechanism, or finding stated herein that is meant to further enhance understanding of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way to the theory, mechanism, or finding stated herein. While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to the drawings, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the selected embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes, equivalents, and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention as defined by the following claims are desired to be protected.

Claims (22)

1. A method of controlling pests, comprising:

installing a plurality of pest control devices, each pest device including a respective bait for one or more species of pest, a respective pest sensor, and a respective communication circuit coupled to the respective pest sensor;

providing an excitation to one of said pest control devices to activate said respective communication circuit, wherein said excitation is a magnetic field applied by a magnetic field source external to said one of said pest control devices; and

receiving status information regarding a respective pest sensor from the respective communication circuit of one of the pest control devices in response to the activation of the communication circuit by the stimulus.

2. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein said one of said pest control devices includes a device responsive to said magnetic field to activate said respective communication circuit.

3. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein the status information is provided by one or more indicators coupled to the one of the pest control devices.

4. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein the information quantifies the respective amounts of bait consumed or removed by one or more pests.

5. The method of controlling pests according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the respective pest sensor for said one of the pest control devices includes a respective pest sensing circuit including a conductive loop arranged to be altered during consumption or displacement of the respective bait by said one of the pest control devices, the conductive loop being coupled to the respective communication circuit to provide a two-state signal, a first state of the two-state signal corresponding to an electrically open condition of the conductive loop and a second state of the two-state signal corresponding to an electrically closed condition of the conductive loop, the state information corresponding to the two-state signal.

6. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein said one pest control device further comprises a housing at least partially enclosing said respective bait, said respective pest sensor, and said respective communication circuit.

7. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, said providing comprising providing a wand including said magnetic field source proximate said one of said pest control devices and optionally transmitting said status information obtained by activating said respective communication circuit back to the wand functioning as a status information collecting device.

8. The method for controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein:

each of said pest control devices including a respective visible indicator arrangement and a respective controller circuit, and further comprising:

visually indicating a first state of said one of said pest control devices with said respective indicator means;

detecting a change in a state of said respective pest sensor with said respective controller circuit of said one of said pest control devices;

adjusting one or more output signals from said respective controller circuit of said one of said pest control devices in response to said change in status; and

visually indicating the second state of the one of the pest control devices with the respective indicator arrangement in response to the adjustment.

9. The method of controlling pests according to claim 8, including detecting a change in status of a respective pest sensor of another pest control device and changing the visual indication provided to the respective indicator arrangement of the other pest control device.

10. The method for controlling pests according to claim 9, wherein:

the respective indicator means of each of said pest control devices comprises at least two light emitting elements;

said visually indicating first state comprises at least intermittently illuminating a first one of said light-emitting elements; and

said visually indicating second state comprises at least intermittently illuminating a second one of said light-emitting elements.

11. The method of controlling pests according to claim 10, wherein said installing includes activating the respective controller circuit of each pest control device by coupling the respective controller to the respective pest sensor with the corresponding connector.

12. The method of controlling pests according to claim 8, wherein said detecting includes determining a transition from a first degree of alteration of said pest sensor to a second degree of alteration of said pest sensor caused by progressive consumption or displacement of one or more pests.

13. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein the species of pest is one or more species of termites.

14. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein the bait includes a pesticide.

15. The method of controlling pests according to claim 1, wherein said bait is of a monitoring type selected for one or more species of termites.

16. A pest control device, comprising:

a bait operable to be consumed or displaced by one or more pests;

a pest sensing circuit;

a communication circuit coupled to said pest sensing circuit, said communication circuit including one or more indicators and an activation device responsive to an externally applied magnetic field to output status information about said pest sensing circuit via said one or more indicators, wherein said activation device is a magnetically actuated switch; and

a structure for operatively positioning said bait, said pest sensing circuit and said communication circuit in a predetermined spatial relationship with respect to one another.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein said one or more indicators comprise at least one light emitting element selectively activated by said communication circuit.

18. The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein the pest sensing circuit comprises an electrically conductive loop disposed on the substrate that changes as a result of being consumed or displaced by one or more pests, the communication circuit being operable to determine the conductive continuity of the electrically conductive loop and provide a two-state signal to the one or more indicators, a first state of the two-state signal corresponding to an electrically open condition of the electrically conductive loop and a second state of the two-state signal corresponding to an electrically closed condition of the electrically conductive loop.

19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the one or more indicators comprise at least one light emitting diode and the communication circuit further comprises two comparators and a power source.

20. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the structure includes a housing at least partially enclosing the bait and the pest sensing circuit, and the one or more indicators of the communication circuit are mounted to the housing.

21. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the bait comprises a pesticide.

22. The device of claim 16, wherein the bait is a monitoring type selected for one or more termites.