JPWO1999009818A1 - Flea trapping method and flea trapping device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Abstract] The present invention provides an effective and superior flea trapping method and flea trapping device that are safe for human living environments and can efficiently attract and capture fleas present in human living spaces. The present invention is a flea trapping method that emits light effective for attracting fleas from a light source, irradiates a target flea trapping area with the light from the light source so that the illuminance is effective for attracting fleas even at a location the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump from the end of the trapping means, and captures fleas attracted toward the light source with the trapping means. The present invention also provides a flea trapping device that includes a light source capable of emitting light effective for attracting fleas, and a trapping unit that is disposed above the target flea trapping area and includes a sticky surface that slopes downward from the side where the light source is installed, and is characterized in that the light from the light source is irradiated into the target flea trapping area so that the illuminance is effective for attracting fleas even at a location the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump from the end of the trapping unit.

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] Flea Trap Method and Flea Trap Device Technical Field The present invention relates to a method and device for trapping fleas in human living environments, and in particular to a method and device for effectively attracting and trapping fleas originating from animals such as dogs and cats.

BACKGROUND ART Conventional methods for eliminating fleas in human living environments include the use of insecticides to kill them or the use of light to attract and capture them.

The former method of using insecticides raises concerns about the insecticide remaining indoors and its safety for pets. Furthermore, their use is troublesome.

On the other hand, the latter method of using light to attract and capture fleas is preferable because it does not have the drawbacks of the former method.

Previously proposed methods for using light to attract and capture fleas include illuminating a miniature light bulb on top of a tray and then capturing the fleas with an adhesive sheet on the bottom of the tray. Another method is to use a flea trap with an adhesive sheet and a chemical luminescent material on top of the trap.

However, these techniques were not effective enough in attracting and capturing fleas.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art, and more specifically, to provide an excellent flea trapping method and flea trapping device that can effectively attract and capture fleas present in human living spaces, is safe for the human living environment, and can attract and capture fleas with high efficiency.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION The inventors of the present invention have conducted extensive research into the conditions for maximizing the attraction and capture of fleas using light, and have discovered that the objectives of the present invention can be achieved by the following means.

(1) A method for capturing fleas, comprising the steps of: preparing a light source and a capturing means; causing the light source to emit light effective for attracting fleas; irradiating the light from the light source onto a target flea-trapping area so that at least one point separated from the end of the capturing means by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illuminance effective for attracting fleas; and capturing fleas attracted toward the light source by the light emitted from the light source with the capturing means.

(2) The method for capturing fleas described in (1) above, including the steps of reflecting the light from the light source by a reflective surface, and irradiating the light from the light source and the light reflected from the reflective surface into the target flea capture area so that at least one point away from the end of the trapping means by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illumination intensity effective for attracting fleas.

(3) The flea trapping method according to (1) or (2) above, wherein the light source includes a high-intensity light-emitting diode, and the luminous intensity of the light emitted from the high-intensity light-emitting diode is 0.3 cd or more, and the dominant wavelength of the light is 400 to 600 nm.

(4) A flea trapping device comprising: a light source capable of emitting light effective for attracting fleas; and a trapping section including a sticky surface sloping downward from the side where the light source is installed and positioned in a target area for flea trapping in the direction of the light emitted from the light source, wherein the light from the light source is emitted into the target area for flea trapping so that at least one point away from the end of the trapping section by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illuminance effective for attracting fleas.

(5) The flea trapping device according to (4) above, wherein the adhesive surface includes a reflective surface that reflects light from the light source into the flea trapping area, and the reflected light, together with the light from the light source, is irradiated into the flea trapping area so that at least one point away from the end of the trapping means by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illuminance effective for attracting fleas.

(6) The flea trapping device according to (4) or (5) above, characterized in that the light source includes a high-intensity light-emitting diode, the luminous intensity of the light from the high-intensity light-emitting diode is 0.3 cd or more, and the dominant wavelength of the light is 400 to 600 nm.

Furthermore, preferred embodiments of the flea trapping method of the present invention described above in (1) to (3) are shown below.

The flea catching method is characterized in that the reflecting surface is inclined toward the side where the light from the light source reaches.

The flea trapping method is characterized in that the inclination angle of the reflecting surface is 5 to 60 degrees relative to the installation surface.

The flea trapping method is characterized in that the reflective surface is disposed below the light source and on an installation surface in the direction of light irradiation from the light source.

The flea trapping method is characterized in that the light reflected by the reflective surface is light effective for attracting fleas.

The flea catching method is characterized in that the total reflectance of light from the reflective surface is 50% or more.

The flea trapping method is characterized in that the trapping means includes either an adhesive sheet or an electric insecticide.

The flea trapping method is characterized in that the reflective surface has adhesive properties.

The method for catching fleas is characterized in that the light source is flashed.

The flea trapping method is characterized in that the blinking frequency of the light source is 30 Hz or less.

In addition, preferred embodiments of the flea trapping device of the present invention described above in (4) to (6) are as follows:

The flea trapping device is characterized in that the inclination angle of the reflecting surface is 5 to 60 degrees relative to the installation surface.

The flea trapping device is characterized in that the total reflectance of light from the reflective surface is 50% or more.

The inventors conducted extensive research to improve the flea attraction and capture effects when attracting fleas with light and then capturing the attracted fleas. As a result, by emitting light from a light source and setting the illuminance of the light at least at a specific point within the target flea capture area to an illuminance effective for attracting fleas, fleas are remarkably attracted toward the light source, and the attracted fleas can be efficiently captured by the capture means.

In the present invention, the light emitted from the light source and the specific location illuminated with an illuminance effective for attracting fleas are believed to have a synergistic effect, strongly attracting not only fleas near the trapping device or light source, but also fleas located at considerable distances toward the light source. Furthermore, fleas approaching the vicinity of the trapping device, i.e., a location within a flea's reach of the edge of the trapping device in one jump, are reliably attracted toward the light source because the location is illuminated with an illuminance effective for attracting fleas, and are believed to reach the trapping device and be captured in approximately one jump.

Furthermore, the present invention allows for the effective attraction and capture of fleas by providing specific illumination levels in specific areas of the target flea area without increasing the size of the light source itself, using a reflector placed behind the light bulb or a light diffuser placed in front of the light bulb. Not only can this device be made compact, allowing it to be installed in even the smallest of spaces.

In the present invention, the term "target flea trapping area" refers to an area in which fleas are trapped by the method and device of the present invention. Examples of such areas include floors, carpets, tatami mats, and other surfaces on which the trapping means of the present invention is placed.

The specific location within the flea trapping area is a location that is the maximum distance from the end of the trapping device that a flea can move in one jump. Incidentally, the maximum distance that a cat flea can move in one jump is approximately 30 cm to 40 cm.

Furthermore, in the present invention, the area that is the maximum travel distance from the end of the trapping means is set to have effective flea-attracting illumination. However, the entire area may be set to have effective flea-attracting illumination, or at least a portion of the area may be set to have effective flea-attracting illumination. In this case, the area with effective flea-attracting illumination is the area that is in the direction of light emitted from the light source and exhibits the maximum illumination within the flea trapping area.

In the present invention, the irradiation of the specific location with light from a light source includes cases where light is directly irradiated from the light source onto the specific location, cases where light from the light source is reflected by a reflective surface and then reflected onto the specific location, and cases where both the direct light and the reflected light are irradiated onto the specific location. In the present invention, the case where both the direct light and the reflected light are irradiated onto the specific location is preferred.

The illuminance effective for attracting fleas is preferably 10 lux or more, more preferably 20 lux or more, and even more preferably 30 lux or more.

The present invention is based on a new concept that utilizes the biological characteristics of fleas, which is not suggested or taught in the prior art: the illuminance of light at a specific point within a flea trapping area is set to an illuminance effective for attracting fleas.

In the present invention, the illuminance of light at a specific location within the flea trapping area is set to an illuminance effective for attracting fleas. However, it is preferred that the light from the light source be directed not only at the specific location, but also at locations away from the specific location in the direction of light irradiation from the light source and/or at locations closer to the specific location.

In the present invention, any means may be used to ensure that the illuminance of light at a specific location within the flea trapping area is sufficient to attract fleas. However, preferred are means using a high-intensity light-emitting diode as the light source, means reflecting light from the light source off a reflective surface and using the reflected light in addition to the light from the light source, or a combination of these.

The above preferred means will be described below.

Using a High-Brightness Light-Emitting Diode as a Light Source High-brightness light-emitting diodes are preferred as light sources in this invention because they emit light with a significantly high luminous intensity, specifically, 0.3 cd or greater, preferably 0.5 cd or greater, and more preferably 1 cd or greater. Here, cd represents the unit of luminous intensity, candela.

When measuring luminous intensity, the unknown luminous intensity can be calculated by comparing the luminous intensity of an emission spectrum with a known luminous intensity as a reference and the measured luminous intensity of the unknown emission spectrum. It can also be calculated using the formula: luminous intensity [cd] = illuminance [lux] x distance [m] ² .

Furthermore, it is preferable that the high-brightness light-emitting diode has a high illuminance. Illuminance is the brightness per unit area perpendicular to the observation direction.

Furthermore, it is preferable to use a high-brightness light-emitting diode that emits an emission wavelength of 400 to 600 nm. The emission wavelength is preferably 425 to 550 nm, and more preferably 450 to 525 nm. Furthermore, the emission wavelength of 450 nm for pure blue and 510 nm for pure green are particularly preferred.

The emission wavelength referred to above is the dominant wavelength, which means the wavelength of the emission peak in the light emission spectrum. The light emitted by the light-emitting diode used in the present invention preferably has a narrow wavelength distribution in the emission spectrum and high color purity, and is preferably monochromatic light whose emission spectrum pattern is approximately normally distributed to the left and right of the dominant wavelength peak.

The light-emitting diodes may be constantly lit, but preferably they flash. This allows for more efficient flea attraction. The flashing frequency is preferably 30 Hz or less, and more preferably 20 Hz or less.

Furthermore, the duty ratio (the ratio of ON time to one ON-OFF cycle) is preferably 50% or less, and more preferably 10% or less. This increases the allowable forward current, allowing for high-intensity light to be emitted for a longer period of time, further improving the flea capture rate.

In addition to flashing the light emitting diode itself as described above, the light emitting diode may be continuously illuminated and flashed by providing a means for blocking the light, such as a shutter.

The color of light emitted by LEDs appears to be related to their attractiveness to fleas, with white and green being preferred. For example, if two LEDs are used, they can be the same color combination, such as white-white or green-green, or different combinations. However, while white light can be a combination of various colors in the visible light range, a white light with a color scheme that combines an emission spectrum based on pure green or pure blue with an emission spectrum of fluorescent colors such as yellow up to 600 nm is preferred.

In the present invention, two or more of the above high brightness light emitting diodes can be used.

Using light-emitting diodes as light sources allows for extended battery life, saving energy, and also allows for cordless operation, expanding the range of installation options, allowing for use outdoors, in doghouses, dressers, closets, etc. Furthermore, it is recommended to use rechargeable power sources as the power source for such light sources.

The direction of light emitted by the high-intensity LED may be any direction as long as the specific location is illuminated with an illuminance sufficient to attract fleas, but it is preferable to direct the light horizontally or slightly downward relative to the installation surface.

Furthermore, in the method (a), the high-brightness light-emitting diode is used as the light source, but any other requirements can be met as long as the illuminance at the specific location is the specified illuminance.

In addition to light from a light source, the present invention also uses a means of reflecting light from a reflective surface and using the reflected light. The light reflected from the reflective surface is irradiated into the flea capture area together with the light from the light source so that at least one point located the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump from the outside of the capture means has an illuminance effective for attracting fleas.

Since the luminous intensity of light reflected from a reflective surface is preferably high, it is preferable for the reflectance of the reflective surface to be high. Specifically, the total reflectance of the reflective surface [expressed as (luminous intensity of reflected light / luminous intensity of light incident from the light source) × 100] is preferably 50% or more, and more preferably 80% or more. Here, total reflectance refers to the sum of specular reflectance (regular reflectance) and diffuse reflectance (diffuse reflectance). In the present invention, the reflective surface may also produce diffuse reflection.

The total reflectance (specular reflectance and diffuse reflectance) can be measured using, for example, a goniophotometer.

The wavelength of the reflected light may be the same as or different from the light from the light source, as long as it is a wavelength that effectively attracts fleas.

In the present invention, reflected light effective for attracting fleas refers to reflected light having a wavelength and luminous intensity that can attract fleas. The wavelength can be 400 to 600 nm, and the luminous intensity can be 0.15 cd or more.

Examples of reflectors with such reflective surfaces include reflectors (mirrors, etc.) made of metals such as aluminum, copper, silver, gold, nickel, brass, chromium, etc., or their alloys, or reflectors with these metals or alloys coated on a substrate; inorganic materials such as silicon oxide, titanium oxide, granite, limestone, marble, gypsum, glass, and single crystals such as artificial ruby, artificial diamond, and artificial emerald, or mixtures thereof, or reflectors with these materials coated on a substrate; natural materials such as wood, silk, cotton, and paper, or mixtures thereof, or reflectors with these materials coated on a substrate, all of which satisfy the above characteristics.

Other examples include those that satisfy the above-mentioned properties by coating a specific substrate with a resin such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene (PE), very-low-density polyethylene (VLDPE), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), nylon (NY), oriented nylon (ONY), oriented polypropylene (OPP), unoriented polypropylene (CPP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), or ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH).

Examples of the substrate include paper such as cardboard and thick paper, resin sheets, metal plates, and glass.

Among these, preferred are those in which a cardboard or resin sheet as a substrate is coated with the above-mentioned materials (metallic materials, inorganic materials, natural materials, etc.) and then further coated with a resin such as LDPE, HDPE, PE, VLDPE, EVA, PVDC, PET, or EVOH, and more preferred are those in which a cardboard substrate is coated with the above-mentioned materials and then further coated with PET.

In addition, to adjust the light reflection of the reflective surface, treatments such as polishing and anodizing can be performed.

The color of the reflective surface is related to the reflected light, and specific examples include white, gray, blue, green, yellow, silver, gold, brown, etc. To effectively attract fleas, blue and green are preferred, as described in the section on light from the light source. White light with a color scheme that combines an emission spectrum based on pure green or pure blue with an emission spectrum of fluorescent yellow up to 600 nm is also preferred.

When the reflective surface is a diffusely reflective surface, the diffuse reflectance is preferably 50 to 100%, and more preferably 80 to 100%.

To achieve diffused reflection, the reflector may have a substrate on which powder, flakes, or beads of a light-diffusing material, such as glass, aluminum, metals such as silver, resin, or bubbles, are applied. The light-diffusing material may be applied in the form of dots or stripes. Diffused reflection can also be achieved by providing small holes, protrusions, or stepped irregularities on the reflective surface of the reflector. Furthermore, diffused reflection can also be achieved by covering the reflector with a laminated sheet of transparent glass or resin with an irregular surface and varying reflectance.

In the present invention, a plurality of reflecting surfaces having the above characteristics can be used.

In the present invention, any light source that is effective in attracting fleas can be used as the light source for emitting light that is effective in attracting fleas, such as incandescent bulbs, miniature bulbs, fluorescent lamps, and light-emitting diodes. However, it is preferable to use light-emitting diodes because of their low power consumption, long life, and ability to emit light of a wavelength that is highly effective in attracting fleas.

In particular, it is preferable to select and use the above-mentioned high-brightness light-emitting diode that emits light having a specific luminous intensity and a specific range of wavelengths. In other words, it is preferable to use the above-mentioned means in combination.

By using the above methods in combination, it is possible to obtain excellent attracting activity against fleas that occur and exist in human living environments, especially fleas that have migrated away from dogs and cats, and the attracted fleas can be captured with a significantly high rate by the trapping means.

In the present invention, a lens or the like can be used to project light from the light source to a distant location.

The reflective surface described above is preferably inclined toward the light source so that its reflected light, along with the light from the light source, is directed toward the target flea trapping area, providing sufficient illumination to attract fleas even at a location within the area that is the maximum distance traveled in a single jump from the end of the trapping device.

This provides a synergistic effect as a light source, speeding up the attractant activity, and ensuring that fleas attracted to the periphery of the device are captured even when the device is compact.

When light is reflected on the sloped reflective surface, it reflects off the surrounding floor (the target area for trapping fleas), and the fleas perceive the reflective surface itself as a light source, attracting them and causing them to jump towards the reflective surface.

The inclination angle X of the reflecting surface relative to the installation surface (horizontal plane) is from the minimum angle at which light from the light source can be incident on the floor surface to a maximum of less than 90°. This angle is preferably 5 to 60°, and more preferably 10 to 25°.

In the present invention, the reflecting surface is preferably disposed below the light source and on the installation surface in the direction of light emission from the light source, which is convenient for the design of the device and allows the device to be made compact.

In the method of the present invention, the height of the light source and its relative position to the reflective surface are very important because the light from the light source must be reflected onto the reflective surface. It is preferable that all of the light reflected from the reflective surface be directed toward the floor surface to maximize its attractiveness to fleas.

The lower the height of the light source L, the better. This is because the higher the height of the light source L, 1) there is a limit to the directional characteristics of the light source, and 2) the farther away the light source is, the lower the illuminance (lux) on the reflective surface, making it difficult for the light to be reflected on the reflective surface.

Therefore, as shown in Figure 2, which illustrates one embodiment of the device of the present invention, the position of the light source L is preferably 0 to 10 cm above point B, which is closest to the light source on the reflecting surface (in the device of Figure 2, the reflecting surface also serves as the adhesive sheet, which is the capturing means), and more preferably 2 to 5 cm.

Meanwhile, point A, the reflective surface furthest from the light source, corresponds to the bottom of the reflective surface and also to the front of the device. However, consideration must be given to constraints imposed by the device's design. For example, the lower the height, the easier it is for fleas to enter given their jumping ability. 2) The lower the height of point A, the more easily the light from the light source is reflected. However, a certain height (h) is required for the following reasons: 3) the necessary thickness for the strength of the components constituting the front of the device, 4) the height of the retaining part for securing and supporting the bottom end of the adhesive sheet, and 5) the height required to prevent fleas from escaping once inside. These factors must be taken into account when making a selection.

Therefore, the height of point A is preferably 0.5 to 5 cm from the floor surface on which it is installed.

More preferably, it is 1 to 2 cm.

In the present invention, the size of the reflecting surface is preferably 30 cm ² to 500 cm ² , and more preferably 60 cm ² to 100 cm ² .

Hereinafter, configurations of the present invention other than the above or other means will be described.

In the present invention, the trapping means for capturing fleas attracted toward the light source by irradiating the light from the light source may be any device capable of capturing or killing the attracted fleas. Examples include adhesive sheets that capture attracted fleas by their adhesive power, sheets that attract attracted fleas using static electricity, electric insecticide devices that electrically kill attracted fleas, insecticide-applied sheets, and containers filled with water. Of these, adhesive sheets are preferred.

As the adhesive sheet capable of capturing fleas by its adhesive power, a conventional adhesive sheet can be used.

This adhesive sheet can be attached to the sheet attachment portion of the device from above or below by pasting, clamping, screwing, fitting, etc. The adhesive sheet can be made into a double-sided adhesive sheet with multiple layers so that it can be used multiple times by peeling it off, or it can be used by washing one or both sides, or both sides can be used.

To prevent direct contact with the adhesive sheet by children's fingers or pet paws, and to prevent dust or insects from entering and blocking the adhesive surface, it is recommended to place a covering member such as a grid on the adhesive sheet. The covering member should be transparent and not impede light reflection from the adhesive surface (if this surface also serves as a reflective surface), or it may be made of a material that provides high reflectivity. The covering member should be positioned a short distance from the adhesive sheet so that it can be removed and cleaned when soiled. The covering member, such as the grid, as well as other components of the device of the present invention, may be treated with a water repellent, oil repellent, antistatic agent, etc. to make them less susceptible to staining.

The adhesive sheet may itself be the reflective surface described above, or may be provided separately from the reflective surface.

The adhesive sheet may be coated with an adhesive agent before or during use. When the adhesive sheet is installed separately from the reflective surface, the surface of the coating may generally be smooth or may have irregularities. The adhesive surface may have any shape, as long as it is capable of trapping fleas. Any adhesive agent may be used as long as it effectively traps fleas. The adhesive surface may be formed by adhesive spray or other methods. Examples of adhesive sheets with irregular surfaces include those with a three-dimensional mesh or lattice pattern. Such adhesive sheets can be fabricated by applying adhesive to the entire surface of a mesh or lattice sponge formed with a high foaming rate, a mesh or lattice wire product, or a honeycomb-shaped material (such as paper, cardboard, resin, foam, metal, rubber, or sponge) by dipping or spraying the adhesive onto the surface. This provides good light transmission and large adhesive areas.

The size of the adhesive sheet is determined by the size of the room in which it will be used and the efficiency of flea capture, but a size of 5 cm to 10 cm x 7 cm to 15 cm is preferred.

In addition, in the present invention, it is preferable that the adhesive sheet serving as the trapping means also serves as the reflective surface. This allows for highly efficient flea capture regardless of the size of the adhesive sheet by utilizing light from a light source and its reflected light. This allows for a smaller sheet area, making the flea trapping device more compact, making it easier to carry outdoors and reducing the device's footprint.

In this case, an example of a surface that serves as both a reflective surface and an adhesive surface is a highly reflective plate coated with an adhesive that has high light transmittance and low light absorption.

When the above-mentioned reflective surface is provided separately from the adhesive surface of the adhesive sheet, examples include: The adhesive sheet is made of a light-transmitting material and a reflective plate is layered underneath the sheet; A covering member with multiple holes or slits (such as a grid, stripe, or mesh pattern) is placed on the adhesive sheet so as not to interfere with flea capture, and the surface of the covering member serves as the reflective surface; Other configurations include a part of the device (such as the device body or the backside of a canopy attached above the light source) serving as the reflective surface, separate from the adhesive sheet; A combination of these configurations is also possible. In the present invention, the device may have multiple reflective surfaces.

In carrying out the present invention, the method and apparatus may also be provided with other attracting or killing means. Examples of such means include heating means such as a heater, a carbon dioxide gas generator, and means containing attractants such as butyric acid or lactic acid. For example, means containing attractants such as butyric acid or lactic acid can be installed anywhere in the apparatus of the present invention. In particular, the attractants can be placed, added, kneaded, coated, impregnated, sprayed, pasted, or printed on the adhesive material and/or sheet of the adhesive sheet.

Additionally, if necessary, pyrethroid compounds including allethrin, resmethrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, cyhalothrin, cyfluthrin, fenpropathrin, tralomethrin, cycloprothrin, fenvalerate, esfenvalerate, etofenprox, empenthrin, prallethrin, transfluthrin, fenothrin, and cyphenothrin, as well as their isomers, derivatives, and analogs, insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as diflubenzuron, teflubenzuron, chlorfluazuron, buprofezin, fenoxycarb, methoprene, hydroprene, and pyriproxyfen, pirimiphosmethyl, diazinon, pyridafenthion, and fenitrothion may be used. Examples of methods for incorporating insecticides include organophosphorus compounds such as chlorpyrifos-methyl, chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, malathion, dimethoate, dimethylvinphos, salithion, trichlorphon, and ethion, and carbamate compounds such as carbaryl, metolcarb, isoprocarb, fenobucarb, propoxur, xylylcarb, ethiofencarb, benidaiocarb, pirimicarb, carbosulfan, methomyl, and oxamyl. Specifically, the above insecticides can be directly or indirectly kneaded, coated, impregnated, sprayed, affixed, printed, or added to parts of the trapping device, the adhesive of the adhesive sheet, and/or the sheet, either directly or diluted.

The target of extermination in this invention is fleas that live both indoors and outdoors, and is particularly suitable for exterminating fleas that have detached from indoor pets such as cats and dogs. Specific examples include dog fleas, cat fleas, human fleas, rat fleas, mouse fleas, blind rat fleas, Japanese rat fleas, European rat fleas, and rat sand fleas. The maximum horizontal distance traveled by these various fleas in a single jump is, for example, approximately 30 to 40 cm for adults.

An example of a device suitable for implementing the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The main body 2 of the flea trapping device 1 consists of a light source holder 3 and an adhesive sheet holder (trapping portion) 4. Light sources (light-emitting diodes) 8 and 9 are attached to the light source holder 3, and an adhesive sheet 5 housed on top of the adhesive sheet holder 4 is placed on the installation surface (floor or flea trapping area) in the direction of light irradiation from the light sources 8 and 9. The adhesive sheet 5 is tilted (at an angle of X°) in the direction of light irradiation from the light sources 8 and 9.

The adhesive sheet holder 4 contains an adhesive sheet 5 measuring 9 x 8 cm, and a grid 6 is attached above the sheet 5. The grid 6 has nine vertical bars and one horizontal bar, and is designed to fit within the frame containing the adhesive sheet 5. The grid 6 may also be designed to rotate around the intersection of the surface 7 and the grid 6 to allow for replacement of the adhesive sheet 5. In this case, as shown in Figure 1, an opening can be provided in the grid 6 to prevent the grid 6 from coming into contact with the light source when it is open.

In FIG. 1, the adhesive sheet 5 also serves as a reflective surface according to the present invention.

The light source holder 3 is rectangular parallelepiped in shape, and two light sources 8 and 9 are attached to the surface (capture device face) 7, which faces the adhesive sheet 5 and is substantially perpendicular to the floor, at a height of 6 cm from the floor. Light source 8 is a high-intensity green light-emitting diode, and light source 9 is a high-intensity white light-emitting diode. The light source holder 3 contains a circuit board for the light-emitting diodes and two C-size alkaline batteries.

The dimensions of the main body 2 of the flea trapping device 1 (width x length x height) were 115 x 135 x 65 mm, making it compact.

As shown in Figs. 5 and 6, which show only a portion of the device, a canopy 10 can be attached above the mounting positions of the light sources 8 and 9 on the surface 7, preventing light from leaking upward from the device and reducing the light irritation to people.

Figure 8 shows a more detailed conceptual cross-sectional view of the device shown in Figure 1 with the canopy 10 shown in Figure 6 added. The device 1 shown in Figure 8 includes a light source 41, canopy 10, lattice 6, surface 7, and adhesive sheet 15, similar to those in Figures 1 and 6. The lattice 6 is configured to rotate around the intersection of surface 7 and the canopy 6 to allow for replacement of the adhesive sheet 5, and as mentioned above, the lattice 6 has an opening. Inside the device 1 body, there is a dry cell battery 32, a cushioning material 35 on top of that, and an electronic component board 34 connected to the switch 33 and light source 41 above the cushioning material 35.

In the above, the eaves 10, the grid 6, or the surface 7 themselves may serve as the reflective surface 11. Another example of a flea trap device using the grid 6 and the eaves 10 as reflective surfaces is shown in Figure 7. Figure 7 shows a schematic side view of the device. The device shown in Figure 7 has three reflective surfaces 11. Specifically, the protruding portion of the eaves 10 is enlarged, and the lower surface of the eaves 10 (the surface closest to the light source 40) serves as the first reflective surface 11. Furthermore, the upper surface of the grid 6 serves as the second reflective surface 11. Furthermore, the surface of the device body facing the adhesive sheet 31 serves as the third reflective surface 11, and a transparent adhesive sheet 31 is used as the adhesive sheet. This allows light from the light source to pass through the transparent adhesive sheet 31 and be reflected by the third reflective surface 11.

To make the flea trapping device even more efficient, it can be further improved by, for example, making the light from the light source and the light reflected from the reflective surface visible to fleas from any direction and attracting fleas from any direction. Such a device could be constructed as the round flea trap shown in Figure 3 (a plan view of this device is shown in Figure 4).

The flea trapping device 1 shown in FIG. 3 has a main body 2 which is made up of a round, umbrella-shaped adhesive sheet holder 14 and a cylindrical light source holder 13.

The adhesive sheet 15 is housed on the inclined upper surface of the adhesive sheet holder 14, and a grating 16 with radial ribs is attached thereon. The adhesive sheet 15 also serves as the reflective surface referred to in the present invention.

Four light sources 18 are provided at equal intervals on the peripheral side surface 17 of the cylindrical light source holder 13.

In another example of the device of the present invention, a light source is provided approximately in the center of the device body, which has a substantially rectangular vertical cross section (the larger surface is the bottom). A grid is provided on the top surface of the device body above the light source, facing the outside. A lens is provided on the side of the device body. An adhesive sheet for capturing fleas is disposed within the device body around the light source (below the grid). The light from the light source is emitted in a direction at least substantially parallel to the installation surface and in the direction of the lens. The light from the light source passes through the lens and is irradiated onto the target flea capture area so that at least one point located a maximum distance from the end of the trapping means that the fleas travel in one jump is illuminated with an effective illuminance for attracting fleas. Furthermore, the use of a lens allows the light from the light source to be emitted over a greater distance. Fleas attracted by the light from the light source enter the device through the grid on the top surface of the device body and are captured by the adhesive sheet located below the grid.

In addition to placing the light source above the adhesive sheet, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, light sources can be placed in other locations. For example, using the schematic side view of the flea trapping device shown in Figure 2, in addition to light source L, a second light source can be placed inside the device near the bottom end A of the adhesive sheet (the trapping means end). A lens can be attached to the side of the device body adjacent to the bottom end A of the adhesive sheet, and light from the second light source can be directed through the lens toward the flea trapping area. The use of a lens allows light from the light source to be projected over a greater distance. Also, in Figure 2, in addition to light source L, a retractable lever or cord can be attached to the bottom of the device body below the bottom end A of the adhesive sheet (the trapping means end), and a second light source can be placed at the end of the lever or cord opposite the device. Electrical wires connected to a power source and the light source run inside the lever or cord. When the device is in use, the second light source is preferably located at at least one point that is the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump from end A of the trapping means.

In the present invention, the body of the flea trapping device may be colored to absorb light with wavelengths of 400 nm to 600 nm.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a flea trapping device of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the flea trapping device of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a front view of a round flea trapping device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of the flea trap of FIG.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of a light-emitting diode mounting surface portion of a flea trapping device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another example of a light-emitting diode mounting surface portion of a flea trapping device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of a flea trapping device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

8 is a more detailed schematic cross-sectional view of the flea trapping device of FIG.

Figure 9 shows the relationship between the distance from the edge of the adhesive sheet and the illuminance at that point.

FIG. 10 is an interior top view of a test chamber 20 for testing flea capture rates.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a flea trapping device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Symbols 1 Flea Trap Device 2 Main Body 3 Light Source Holder 4 Adhesive Sheet Holder 5 Adhesive Sheet (Reflective Surface) 6 Lattice 7 Surface 8 Light Source 9 Light Source 10 Canopy 11 Reflective Surface 13 Light Source Holder 14 Adhesive Sheet Holder 15 Adhesive Sheet (Reflective Surface) 16 Lattice 17 Side 18 Light Source A: Lower End of Adhesive Sheet B: Upper End of Adhesive Sheet L: Light Source 20 Test Chamber 21 Loop Carpet 22 Flea Release Position 23 Flea Trap Device of the Present Invention 24 Comparative Sample 25 Control 26 Adhesive Sheet 27 Thermo-Hygrometer 31 Transparent Adhesive Sheet 32 Dry Cell Battery 33 Switch 34 Electronic Component Board 35 Cushioning Material 40 Light Source 41 Light Source 42 High-Brightness Light-Emitting Diode Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention [Example 1] Using the following samples a and b of the present invention and the following commercially available product A, the relationship between the distance from the edge of the adhesive sheet (the trapping means) and the illuminance at that point was investigated. Furthermore, a flea capture test was conducted using the following sample a and the following commercially available products A and B.

Sample a of the present invention: The device of the present invention shown in Figure 1 used two high-brightness light-emitting diodes as light sources. The first high-brightness light-emitting diode emitted green light (wavelength 525 nm) with a luminous intensity of 3.0 [cd], and the second high-brightness light-emitting diode emitted white light (wavelengths 470 nm and 560 nm) with a luminous intensity of 0.8 [cd]. These two high-brightness light-emitting diodes were flashed (duty ratio 50%, frequency 1 Hz). The inclination angle (X°) of the adhesive surface was 15°. The adhesive surface was a silver mirror sheet with a total reflectance of 85%.

Sample b of the present invention: This sample was identical to Sample a, except that only the first high-brightness light-emitting diode (green light (wavelength 525 nm, luminous intensity 3.0 [cd])) was used.

Commercially Available Product A: A single incandescent lamp is used as the light source. An adhesive sheet is placed in the direction of the light source's irradiation, which is substantially horizontal to the installation surface. A reflector is placed behind the light source's irradiation direction, and an irradiation surface (light diffusion plate) with approximately the same width as the adhesive sheet is placed in front of the light source's irradiation direction.

For the above samples a and b and the commercially available product A, the distance (m) from the edge of the adhesive sheet (bottom edge A in Figure 2) serving as the capture means and the illuminance (lux) of the installation surface (floor) at that point were measured. This distance is measured in the direction of light irradiation from the light source. In the case of the above sample a of the present invention, this distance is measured in the direction of light irradiation from the light source from the center between the two light sources.

The illuminance measurement results for each of the above samples are shown in Figure 9. Samples a and b, which are samples of the present invention, had an illuminance of over 15 lux even at a distance of 50 cm from the edge of the adhesive sheet (bottom A in Figure 2). In contrast, commercial product A had an illuminance of about 5 lux even at a distance of 20 cm from the edge of the adhesive sheet (bottom A in Figure 2).

Next, flea capture tests were conducted on the above sample a, commercial product A, and the following commercial product B.

Commercially available product B: This device has an adhesive sheet on the bottom, a tray that is horizontal to the installation surface, and a cover secured by wire supports. A miniature light bulb is screwed inside the cover as a light source, and the light emitted from the light source is directed downward at a 90-degree angle from the horizontal.

Test Method: Sample A and Commercial Product A or Commercial Product B were placed in a case with the light sources facing each other, a distance of 360 cm between them. The case was darkened, and the light source of each device was turned on. 55 cat fleas were released midway between Sample A and Commercial Product A or Commercial Product B, and the time elapsed from that point, the distance traveled by the cat fleas (the distance traveled from the point where the cat fleas were released), and the number of fleas captured by each device were observed. The results of the flea capture test using Sample A and Commercial Product A are shown in Table 1 below, and the results of the flea capture test using Sample A and Commercial Product B are shown in Table 2 below.

Looking at Tables 1 and 2 above, it can be seen that commercial products A and B hardly attracted any fleas and did not capture any. In contrast, sample a of the present invention was able to capture more than 80% of the released fleas with the adhesive sheet after three hours. Furthermore, it can be seen that one hour after the fleas were released, a considerable number of fleas were attracted to the surface within 40 cm of sample a (corresponding to the maximum distance traveled by a cat flea in one jump). Therefore, it can be seen that the present invention has a rapid effect in attracting fleas.

Therefore, by irradiating the target area with light from a light source and providing an illuminance effective for attracting fleas at at least one location that is the maximum distance traveled in one jump from the end of the trapping means, it is possible to capture fleas at a significantly higher capture rate, and the capture effect is immediate.

[Example 2] (Test Method) Figure 10 shows a top view of the interior of the test chamber 20.

In an outdoor, open-space test chamber 20 (3.5 m x 4.5 m x 2.5 m), a looped carpet 21 (2.5 m x 4.3 m) was laid to simulate a practical application, and a flea trapping device 23 of the present invention was installed in the corner. A schematic perspective view of the device 23 of the present invention is shown in Figure 11. The device 23 of the present invention is equipped with an adhesive sheet 26 and a high-intensity light-emitting diode 42. The looped carpet was used to create conditions that made it easy for released fleas to burrow into the carpet and establish themselves, while making it difficult for them to move.

When comparing the test specimens with a commercial product or comparative example, a comparative test specimen 24 was placed in the opposite corner. The comparative test specimens 24 were a commercial flea control device (equipped with adhesive sheet 26 and a 100V outlet-type light bulb) and a comparative flea control device (equipped with adhesive sheet 26 and a light source with the characteristics listed in Tables 3 and 4).

As a control 25, only the adhesive sheet 26 was placed at the corner diagonally opposite the installation position of the device 23 of the present invention.

The adhesive sheet 26 is adhesive on only one surface and measures 30 x 29 cm.

One hundred cat or dog fleas (50 males, 50 females) were released into the center of the carpet (flea release location 22), and 14 hours later, the number of fleas captured and removed by each adhesive sheet was counted. To measure the temperature and humidity in the test chamber 20, a self-recording thermo-hygrometer 27 was installed on the loop carpet. The distribution of fleas on the carpet was also observed, and their migration from the center was monitored. The fleas were then left in the test chamber 20, and similar investigations were conducted for approximately four days.

The capture rate was calculated using the following formula based on the number of fleas captured and eliminated by each device.

Capture rate (%) = [(Number of captured fleas) / (Number of test fleas - Number of dead fleas)] x 100 (Results) The capture rate (%) over time is shown in Table 3 (cat fleas) and Table 4 (dog fleas). Tables 3 and 4 also show the characteristics of the light source used. For Tests 4 through 9, the illuminance was also measured at a distance of 30 cm from the edge of the adhesive sheet (capture means), as in Example 1, and the results are shown in Table 4.

The temperature in the test room was 10 to 18° C. The control and non-commercial flea traps were equipped with two light-emitting diodes (see FIG. 11), while the commercial products were equipped with one light bulb.

The maximum emission intensity of each of the above LEDs was measured by measuring the emission spectrum from a measuring device (spectrophotometer) 50 cm away, and the emission intensity was expressed as a relative value on the Y-axis relative to the wavelength distribution on the X-axis. The maximum emission intensities listed in Tables 3 and 4 are the relative emission intensities of each LED.

The luminous intensity of each of the above LEDs was estimated and calculated from the emission spectrum measured using the luminous intensity values of known LEDs (pure blue and pure green) as references. The high-brightness LEDs used in the device of the present invention emit monochromatic light with an emission spectrum pattern that is approximately normally distributed to the left and right of the peak at the main wavelength.

From the results in Tables 3 and 4, it appears that almost no fleas were caught with the adhesive sheet alone, even after several days had passed, and that the fleas that were caught were those that had accidentally jumped onto the adhesive sheet.

Furthermore, the commercial product in Test No. 8 and the comparative example in Test No. 9 captured almost no fleas, and the capture rate was almost the same as that of the control.

In contrast, the method and device of the present invention achieved a significantly higher capture rate over several days, even in a large space simulating a practical application, where the outdoor temperature was low and flea behavior was slow. Tests No. 4 and No. 6 were identical except for the use of a continuous or flashing light source. Test No. 4, which used a flashing light source, achieved a higher capture rate than Test No. 6, which used a continuous light source. This demonstrates that a flashing light source is preferable for the present invention. Furthermore, even within the flashing method, capture rates vary depending on the flashing frequency, with a lower flashing frequency (slower flashing period) resulting in even higher capture rates.

The device of the present invention was found to have a high capture rate for both cat fleas and dog fleas.

[Example 3] (Preparation of Adhesive Sheet Samples) Cardboard or thick paper was cut to the specified size (8 x 9 cm), and the top surface was painted the color shown in Table 5 below. An adhesive was then applied to prepare adhesive sheet samples.

(Test Method) 1. Test Apparatus The capture device used was the type shown in Figure 1, equipped with two light sources (green and white). The adhesive sheet holder was tilted at a 15-60° angle relative to the floor and flat. The adhesive sheet was surrounded by a 1-cm-high side wall to accommodate the thickness of the sheet.

A light source (green, wavelength 525 nm) of 7.8 (cd) and a light source (white, wavelengths 470 nm and 560 nm) of 1.4 (cd) were used, with a total luminous intensity of 9.2 (cd).

2. Test Room The test device was placed in the center of the test room, and 50 to 100 adult cat fleas (male:female ratio 1:1) were released 1.8 m away.

(Test Results) After releasing the fleas, the number of captured fleas was measured 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours later, and the capture rate was calculated. The test results are shown in Table 5 below.

The capture rate was calculated based on the number of fleas captured by the device using the following formula: Capture rate (%) = [(Number of captured fleas) / (Number of test fleas - Number of dead fleas)] x 100.

The "number of dead fleas" refers to the number of fleas killed outside of this device.

The results in Table 5 above show that the adhesive sheet with an incline on the floor surface can capture insects more quickly than the sheet without an incline. Even the sheet with a flat surface showed a certain level of capture rate after 3 hours.

The device of the present invention has been shown to have a high capture rate for both cat and dog fleas, and can capture them quickly.

[Example 4] (Preparation of Adhesive Sheet Sample A) Cardboard was cut to a specified size (8 x 9 cm) and an adhesive was applied to its top surface to prepare adhesive sheet Sample A. The total reflectance of Sample A was measured using a goniophotometer and found to be 25%. The color was brown.

(Preparation of Adhesive Sheet Sample B) Cardboard was cut to the specified size (8 x 9 cm) and aluminum was vapor-deposited onto its top surface. An adhesive was then applied to prepare adhesive sheet Sample B. The total reflectance of Sample B was measured using a goniophotometer and found to be 85% (specular reflection center). The color was silver.

(Preparation of Adhesive Sheet Sample C) Cardboard was cut to the specified size (8 x 9 cm) and a transfer foil was applied to its top surface. An adhesive was then applied to prepare adhesive sheet Sample C. The total reflectance of Sample C was measured using a goniophotometer and found to be 70% (specular reflection was the dominant reflection, with diffuse reflection also present). The color was gold.

(Preparation of Adhesive Sheet Sample D) Cardboard was cut to a specified size (8 x 9 cm), aluminum was vapor-deposited onto its top surface, and aluminum strips were attached to the surface. An adhesive was then applied to this to prepare Adhesive Sheet Sample D. The total reflectance of Sample D was measured using a goniophotometer and found to be 80% (diffuse reflection center).

The color tone was silver.

(Preparation of Adhesive Sheet Sample E) Cardboard was cut to a specified size (8 x 9 cm), and aluminum foil (8-9 μm thick) was attached (laminated) to the top surface. An adhesive was then applied to this to prepare adhesive sheet Sample E. The total reflectance of Sample E was measured using a goniophotometer and found to be 50%. Its color was also light gray.

(Test Method) 1. Test Apparatus The capture device used was the type shown in Figure 1, with a dual light source consisting of a high-intensity light-emitting diode (green) and a high-intensity light-emitting diode (white). The angle of each adhesive sheet relative to the floor in the adhesive sheet holder was 15°. Additionally, a 1-cm-high sidewall was provided around the adhesive sheet to accommodate the thickness of the sheet. A 7.8-cd high-intensity light-emitting diode (green, wavelength 525 nm) and a 1.4-cd high-intensity light-emitting diode (white, wavelengths 470 nm and 560 nm) were used, resulting in a total luminous intensity of 9.2 cd.

2. Test Room The test device was placed in the center of the test room, and 50 to 100 adult cat fleas (male:female ratio 1:1) were released 1.8 m away.

(Test Results) After release, the number of flies captured was counted 1 hour, 2 hours, and 3 hours later, and the capture rate was calculated. The test results are shown in Table 6 below. Table 6 also shows the illuminance of the installation surface (floor) 30 cm away from the edge of the adhesive sheet (capture means), as in Example 1.

The capture rate was calculated based on the number of fleas captured in the device in the same manner as in Example 3.

*The illuminance here refers to the illuminance on the floor surface 30 cm away from the edge of the adhesive sheet, which is the capture means.

The results in Table 6 above show that samples B to E, which have adhesive sheets with high reflectivity and reflective surfaces, can capture fleas more quickly and at a higher capture rate than sample A, which has an adhesive sheet with a low reflectivity and reflective surfaces.

The device of the present invention has been shown to have a high capture rate for both cat and dog fleas, and can capture them quickly.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention aims to provide an excellent flea trapping method and flea trapping device that can effectively attract and trap fleas present in human living spaces.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a method and device for catching fleas that is safe for the human living environment and that can attract and catch fleas with high efficiency.

───────────────────────────────────────────────────── Continued from the front page (81) Designated Countries EP(AT,BE,CH,CY, DE, DK, ES, FI, FR, GB, GR, IE, I T, LU, MC, NL, PT, SE), OA (BF, BJ , CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG), AP(GH, GM, K E, LS, MW, SD, SZ, UG, ZW), UA (AM , AZ, BY, KG, KZ, MD, RU, TJ, TM) , AL, AM, AT, AU, AZ, BA, BB, BG, BR, BY, CA, CH, CN, CU, CZ , DE, D K, EE, ES, FI, GB, GE, GH, GM, HR , HU, ID, IL, IS, JP, KE, KG, KR, KZ, LC, LK, LR, LS, LT, LU, LV, M D, MG, MK, MN, MW, MX, NO, NZ, PL , PT, RO, RU, SD, SE, SG, SI, SK, SL, TJ, TM, TR, TT, UA, UG, US, U Z, VN, YU, ZW (Note) This publication is based on the international publication of the International Bureau of International Trade and Industry (WIPO). Please note that the effect of the international publication of the Japanese-language patent application (Japanese-language utility model registration application) related to this publication arises pursuant to Article 184-10, Paragraph 1 of the Patent Act (Article 48-13, Paragraph 2 of the Utility Model Act), and is unrelated to this publication.

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A method for capturing fleas, comprising the steps of: preparing a light source and a trapping means; causing the light source to emit light effective for attracting fleas; irradiating a target flea trapping area with light from the light source so that at least one point away from the end of the trapping means by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illuminance effective for attracting fleas; and capturing fleas attracted toward the light source by the light emitted from the light source with the trapping means. 2. The method for capturing fleas according to claim 1, including the steps of: reflecting light from the light source by a reflective surface; and irradiating the light from the light source and the light reflected from the reflective surface into the target flea capture area so that at least one point away from the end of the trapping means by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illumination intensity effective for attracting fleas. 3. The flea trapping method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the light source includes a high-intensity light-emitting diode, the luminous intensity of the light from the high-intensity light-emitting diode being 0.3 cd or more, and the dominant wavelength of the light being 400 to 600 nm. 4. A flea trapping device comprising: a light source capable of emitting light effective for attracting fleas; and a trapping section including a sticky surface sloping downward from the side where the light source is installed and positioned in a target area for flea trapping in the direction of the light emitted from the light source, wherein the light from the light source is emitted into the target area for flea trapping so that at least one point away from the end of the trapping section by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illuminance effective for attracting fleas. 5. The flea trapping device of claim 4, wherein the adhesive surface includes a reflective surface that reflects light from the light source into the flea trapping area, and the reflected light, together with light from the light source, is irradiated into the flea trapping area so that at least one point away from the end of the trapping means by the maximum distance traveled by a flea in one jump has an illumination intensity effective to attract fleas. 6. The flea trapping device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the light source includes a high-intensity light-emitting diode, the luminous intensity of the light from the high-intensity light-emitting diode being 0.3 cd or more, and the dominant wavelength of the light being 400 to 600 nm.