Poison Holders Patents (Class 43/131)
  • Patent number: 6442890
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling ants and other pests are provided. A micromachine has a battery and a remotely actuatable electrical switch operatively associated therewith. The micromachine has at least a portion thereof covered by an ant attractant such as food or bait, for example. The micromachine is of such size and weight as to be readily transportable by a fire ant or carpenter ant or other pest. In one embodiment, a resistance heating element is energized by the battery when the switch is closed thereby causing communication between a recess containing a pheromone or fungus or other ant controllant substance and the exterior of the micromachine. A thermally deformable bimetallic element may be employed for this purpose. Alternatively, a plastic film, which will degrade under the influence of heat, may be employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventors: Samuel M. Creeger, Uri Fakiro
  • Publication number: 20020095856
    Abstract: There is provided an insect attractant and elimination platform, the platform featuring an environment-tolerant, high volume, continuous liquid feed device and method for the eradications of ants, insects, and other pests. Preferably, the invention includes a reservoir for storing a predetermined quantity of liquid bait; a base in cooperation with the reservoir for receiving predetermined quantities of liquid bait accessible to the insect pests; and a stabilizing device removably attached to the base for favorable positioning of the device. A weather shield is integrated or cooperates with the reservoir portion of the device to protect the liquid bait from damaging environmental elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventors: Robert E. McManus, Kenneth J. Kupfer
  • Patent number: 6416752
    Abstract: An improved termite bait composition comprises a powdered cellulosic attractant having a particle size in the range of approximately 1 to 100 micrometers and a termite killing agent. Also disclosed are a method for controlling termites by applying the termite bait composition to a termite infested area and a termite bait composition package for use in a termite bait station comprising the termite bait composition contained within a termite attractive package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Whitmire Micro-Gen Research Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald O. Richardson, Robin L. Kern
  • Publication number: 20020069579
    Abstract: An insect bait station for providing liquid bait to targeted insects providing a bait station including a reservoir and cover joined in liquid-tight relation having access ports in the cover providing a target insect entering the cover feeding chamber access to liquid insect bait to a wicking material interposed between the liquid reservoir and feeding chamber in the bait station. Spill-resistant access means provides a target insect located in the feeding chamber of the bait station cap access to liquid insect bait confined within the feeding chamber safely inaccessible by children, animals, birds and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Applicant: The Clorox Company, a Delaware Corporation
    Inventors: Stephanie H. Hyatt, Lisa Blum
  • Patent number: 6401384
    Abstract: An insect bait station comprising a housing having an outer wall forming an opening therein and a region therein to receive an insect bait formulation, a cover, securable to the housing, and having an outer surface and an inner surface, and a plurality of gates forming gate openings sized to allow selective entry of insects, wherein the cover further includes an aperture with a seal disposed therein, the seal including a slit dimensioned to permit replenishment of the insect bait formulation in the housing while essentially preventing the undesirable escape of insect bait station formulation therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Waterbury Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl D. Contadini, Nicholas A. Velezis, John J. Dean
  • Patent number: 6397517
    Abstract: An injection molded plastic body has a lid joined by a living hinge. A rodent passageway extends within the body between two aligned holes. The hinge is perpendicular to the passageway, allowing the lid to be opened when the body is fixed adjacent a building wall. The interior of the body is divided by a raised wall which is broken into two segments by an opening to a blind passageway extending perpendicular to the passageway. Two rodent feeding areas are positioned adjacent the blind passageway. Bait blocks are positioned within each feeding area on protrusions which are received within axially extending central holes. The blocks are clamped between underlying rings and cooperating structure depending downwardly from the lid. Instead of bait, a mechanical trap maybe positioned on two of three protrusions aligned along the blind passageway. The mechanical trap inter-fits with the protrusions to positively position the mechanical trap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Bell Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick Leyerle, Daniel C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6397516
    Abstract: The subject invention pertains to materials and methods useful for management of certain pests. The invention is particularly well suited for the control of social insect pests and, particularly, termites. The invention concerns unique toxicant-containing matrices as well as apparatuses for monitoring pest activity and presenting a toxicant. The invention is useful as part of an Integrated Pest Management Program and can greatly reduce the introduction of harmful chemicals into the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventor: Nan-Yao Su
  • Patent number: 6389741
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring and controlling termite infestation. The apparatus is comprised of a termite resistant housing having (1) a bottom, (2) sidewalls having an interior and exterior surface and (3) a top. The top includes an opening for accessing the interior of the housing to identify the presence of termites and to introduce toxic bait into the housing when the presence of termites is observed through an opening for accessing the housing interior. The housing has at least one sidewall opening large enough to permit termites to pass through and nontoxic termite bait fixedly attached to the interior and/or exterior of one or more of the housing sidewalls. A number of alternative architectures are provided which have in common the feature of allowing termites to transition from nontoxic bait to toxic bait that is introduced in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the termite habitat at, without or within the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: David R. Nimocks, III
  • Patent number: 6389740
    Abstract: Provided is a breeding container which is adapted to be lethal to container breeding mosquitoes which contains: a walled structure defining an internal volume, the walled structure being constructed and arranged to contain an aqueous liquid within at least a portion of the internal volume; at least one opening in the walled structure disposed so as to allow mosquitoes to enter the walled structure; mosquito egg laying structure in the internal volume constructed and arranged such that female mosquitoes contact a surface of the mosquito egg laying structure; and an insecticide that is lethal to mosquitoes present in an amount sufficient to kill the female mosquitoes in contact with the surface. Also provided is a lethal mosquito breeding container kit and a method for controlling the population of container breeding mosquitoes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Michael J. Perich, Brian C. Zeichner
  • Patent number: 6378242
    Abstract: A holder for isolating an article from a surface is comprised of a receiving member for retaining an article in a position removed from a surface. A crawling arthropod-deterring component is applied at least adjacent to lower periphery of the receiving member. A base situated below the receiving member supports and stabilizes the receiving member and distributes a load applied by the retained article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventor: Ernest H. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6378243
    Abstract: A modular pest control system which includes structure that is specifically designed to capitalize upon the physiology and/or behavior of a wide assortment of pests to render the system more attractive to the pests. The system is modular in nature whereby it may be configured as desired or necessary to target any combination of one or more species of pests. The modular system preferably includes, at minimum, a first component in the form of a pest control device that may be releasably connectable to a second component. The first component may contain one or more materials or structural features for controlling any individual species or combinations of species of ground crawling pests, termites and rodents. The second component may be a releasable base for securing the first component to vegetation, building surfaces and materials, or targeted areas of soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: B & G Equipment Company
    Inventors: Eric J. Snell, Bruce C. Yeagle, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20020046483
    Abstract: A modular pest control system which includes structure that is specifically designed to capitalize upon the physiology and/or behavior of a wide assortment of pests to render the system more attractive to the pests. The system is modular in nature whereby it may be configured as desired or necessary to target any combination of one or more species of pests. The modular system preferably includes, at minimum, a first component in the form of a pest control device that may be releasably connectable to a second component. The first component may contain one or more materials or structural features for controlling any individual species or combinations of species of ground crawling pests, termites and rodents. The second component may be a releasable base for securing the first component to vegetation, building surfaces and materials, or targeted areas of soil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Applicant: B&G Equipment Company
    Inventors: Eric J. Snell, Bruce C. Yeagle
  • Patent number: 6374536
    Abstract: A bait station facilitates monitoring of termite activity based on luring termites into the bait station and causing methane gas produced by termites to accumulate for periodic monitoring with a methane detector. The bait station includes an inverted T-shape pipe with subterranean apertures for entry of ground water, draining of fluids away from the bait station containing water soluble compounds that attract termites, and entry of termites into the bait station. An exposed access port of a container monitoring portion is selectively opened after each monitoring interval for detecting any accumulated methane gas with a detector. A system includes a portable methane detector to periodically monitor a deployed plurality of bait stations buried in a perimeter around a building structure. The bait stations lure termites away from the building and provide an indication of termite infestation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Lawrence Washburn
  • Publication number: 20020043018
    Abstract: A tamper-resistant pest trap that has an outer housing that simulates a rock typically found in a garden or landscape area around a residence or building. The outer housing is a hollow structure with a removable holding tray located therein. Formed on the sides of the outer housing are two, first and second side tunnels that bend and curve inward from the sides of the outer housing towards the center of the outer housing. Formed on the end of each side tunnel is at least one pest opening which enables a pest to enter the outer housing's cavity. In one embodiment, a large opening is formed on the bottom surface of the outer housing into which a holding tray may be securely placed. In another embodiment, the outer housing includes a lid member pivotally attached to a bottom member with the holding tray attached to a bottom member with the holding tray attached to the bottom member. Disposed inside the holding trap is a suitable poison or a trap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventor: Lyle Townsend
  • Patent number: 6370811
    Abstract: Apparatus, for detecting the presence and eating activity of organisms such as termites that damage structures, includes a body; a wooden bait element controllably exposed to the organisms within a cavity of the body, and having an applied bait substance; a side wall of the body having a vertically spaced plurality of smoothly converging entrance passages for admitting the organisms, a consumable porous barrier covering each of the entrance passages. Spring tension is applied to an upper end of the bait element, an opposite end being anchored to the body. A flag member that is connected to the upper end of the bait element projects from the body when the bait element is weakened to the predetermined amount by the organisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Michael J. Masterson
  • Patent number: 6370814
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a conformable termite bait container capable of being located either against a first substantially planar surface or against a corner defined by the intersection of a second and a third substantially planar surface. The conformable termite bait container preferably comprises a housing which includes a back wall, front wall and side structure operatively connected between the front and back walls. The back wall, front wall and side structure form an interior cavity therebetween capable of storing termite bait. A plurality of openings are located on the housing to allow termites to access the bait locatable therewithin. A first structurally-weakened area is located along the longitudinal length of the back wall, figuratively dividing the back wall into a first back portion and a second back portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventors: David H. Curtis, Michael R. Latronica, John J. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 6370813
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a bait station comprising a base, a reservoir, a cover, and a latch. The base may be used in two different orientations and includes a first section and a second section. The first section has climbing assisting members and a cavity with a reservoir receiving area, and the second section has side climbing assisting members. The climbing assisting members and side climbing assisting members of the base provide a textured surface that enables insects to crawl into and out of the bait station more easily. The reservoir contains poisonous bait and may be placed in two different positions within the reservoir receiving area to accommodate the two different orientations in which the base may be used. The reservoir includes tapered sides with climbing assisting members. The climbing assisting members provide a textured surface that enables insects to crawl into and out of the reservoir more easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas D. Nelson, Keith D. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6360477
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an article (such as an insect control pouch) to dispense a volatile active (such as an insect control agent). The pouch is formed from a single layer polymeric non-absorbing film. The pouch traps the active until use of the pouch is desired. When the pouch is opened the walls of the pouch serve as a substrate from which the active can readily passively evaporate. Methods of forming such pouches using heat sealing techniques, and methods of using such pouches, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc
    Inventors: Stanley J. Flashinski, Bruno W. Fricke, Edgar Pohlmann, Murthy S. Munagavalasa, Michael J. Skalitzky
  • Patent number: 6360481
    Abstract: The invention involves a fence for repelling plant-damaging animals comprised of a row of tubes each having a top end and bottom end, and at least one chemical-composition-containing tube having at least one exit port; a connector for attaching each tube to each adjacent tube; and a chemical composition repellant to plant-damaging animals, contained within the at least one chemical-composition-containing tube, whereby a repellant character of the chemical composition is releaseable from the at least one chemical-composition-containing tube through the exit port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Heather Nesic
  • Patent number: 6346262
    Abstract: Controlled release compositions of matter are disclosed comprising complexes for treating a population of one or more aquatic organisms in a column of water. The complexes comprise at least one system wherein the system comprises at least one bioactive agent as a component selected for treating a population of aquatic organisms, at least one carrier component, and at least one coating component for regulating the controlled release rate and release profile of the bioactive agent in water or at least one bioactive agent and one joint-function component that can serve as both a carrier and coating to regulate the controlled release rate and release profile of the bioactive agent in water, with or without optional binder components and/or additional formulation materials. The components are selected to sink or float so that the complexes will permeate and/or remain in any planar or volumetric segment of a water column for a period of time that is sufficient to effectively treat a population of aquatic organisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Assignee: Lee County Mosquito Control District
    Inventor: Richard Levy
  • Patent number: 6344191
    Abstract: Compositions and lures are described which provide synthetic chemical attractants which function as highly effective attractants for male and female moths, primarily moths of the family Noctuidae. In one aspect, the attractants provide an effective attractant amount of vapor of 3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-1-pentanol or mixtures thereof. In another aspect, the attractants provide vapor blends of acetic acid and one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of 3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-2-butanol, and 3-methyl-1-pentanol. By attracting male and female moths to traps or baits, the chemical attractants provide a means for detecting, surveying, monitoring, and controlling the moths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Peter J. Landolt, Robert R. Heath
  • Patent number: 6343434
    Abstract: A system of poisonous bait presentation that preserves and prolongs the original characteristics of a deployed point source bait supply until such time as targeted pests expose a portion of the bait. The aggregate bait supply is distributed among separate compartments positioned proximately within a bait container produced from a deformable material that is resistant to reaction with the intended bait content and degradation from exposure to the environment once deployed. Palatability of the material may be enhanced by the inclusion of a feeding stimulant and/or attractant throughout it or in or on portions of it, thereby encouraging targeted pests to investigate it and, through piercing or mastication, eventually breach and make available for consumption one or more compartments of the preserved bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Inventor: John Michael Petti
  • Patent number: 6337078
    Abstract: Controlled release compositions of matter are disclosed comprising complexes for treating a population of one or more aquatic organisms in a column of water. The complexes comprise at least one system wherein the system comprises at least one bioactive agent as a component selected for treating a population of aquatic organisms, at least one carrier component, and at least one coating component for regulating the controlled release rate and release profile of the bioactive agent in water or at least one bioactive agent and one joint-function component that can serve as both a carrier and coating to regulate the controlled release rate and release profile of the bioactive agent in water, with or without optional binder components and/or additional formulation materials. The components are selected to sink or float so that the complexes will permeate and/or remain in any planar or volumetric segment of a water column for a period of time that is sufficient to effectively treat a population of aquatic organisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Lee County Mosquito Control District
    Inventor: Richard Levy
  • Patent number: 6298597
    Abstract: A termite control system kit. A several step process starts with taking a tube with a removal cap at one end, such as a two to four inch PVC tube, and filling the inner chamber with a food source such as rolled cardboard. The tube is then placed with its open end adjacent to a termite population so that live termites can then enter the entrance/exit of the tube to reach the food source. Once termites are inside the tube, the cap is removed from the tube, and a non-edible foraging matrix, such as a disc of loose soil and or sand that is treated with a slow acting and non-repellant toxicant, is placed between the food source in the chamber and the termite entrance/exit of the chamber. Slow acting and non-repellent toxicants can be non-immediate lethal doses of fipronil, chlorfenapyr, imidacloprid, and chlorpyrifos.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignees: University of Florida, The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Philip G. Koehler, Faith M. Oi
  • Publication number: 20010025447
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring and controlling termite infestation. The apparatus is comprised of a termite resistant housing having (1) a bottom, (2) sidewalls having an interior and exterior surface and (3) a top. The top includes an opening for accessing the interior of the housing to identify the presence of termites and to introduce toxic bait into the housing when the presence of termites is observed through an opening for accessing the housing interior. The housing has at least one sidewall opening large enough to permit termites to pass through and nontoxic termite bait fixedly attached to the interior and/or exterior of one or more of the housing sidewalls. A number of alternative architectures are provided which have in common the feature of allowing termites to transition from nontoxic bait to toxic bait that is introduced in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the termite habitat at, without or within the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: David R. Nimocks
  • Patent number: 6272791
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for sequentially delivering of a bait and a poison to a pest comprising a base having a lower portion adapted for resting on a surface. A first and a second container portion is supported by the base for respectively retaining a bait and a poison. A cap is engageable with the base for covering the first and second container portions. The cap is movable for enabling the pest to migrate to consume the bait in the first container portions. The cap is movable for enabling the pest to migrate to consume the bait mixed with a poison in said second container portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Donald A. Pleasants
  • Patent number: 6266918
    Abstract: A simple, inexpensive signal device indicates the presence of wood-destroying insects, particularly subterranean termites. The signal device comprises a triggering mechanism and a signaling mechanism. The device can be adapted to fit almost all commercially available monitors or bait stations. The triggering mechanism is designed to be released upon destruction by feeding by termites or other wood-eating insects. Upon release, the triggering mechanism is designed to either pull or push a visual signal out of the housing, producing a signal that can be seen from a distance. Using this signal device, the presence of termites can be detected without disturbing the monitor or bait station. Moreover, because the signal is seen outside the housing, the housing is not required to be transparent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
    Inventors: Gregg Henderson, Jay K. Paxson
  • Patent number: 6266917
    Abstract: A pest control article is provided which includes a pest control device such as a poisoned bait or trap and a decorative housing. The housing includes a decorative unit and a pedestal supporting the decorative unit. A compartment within the pedestal is provisioned with the poisoned bait or trap allowing the pest control device to be out of public view. Rodents or insects enter the compartment through one or more apertures within the pedestal so as to access a trap or poisoned bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Atlantic Paste & Glue Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Hight
  • Patent number: 6233865
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a conformable termite bait container capable of being located either against a first substantially planar surface or against a corner defined by the intersection of a second and a third substantially planar surfaces. In a preferred embodiment, the conformable termite bait container comprises a housing having a front wall, a back wall and side walls operatively connected between the front wall and the back wall, where the front, back and side walls form an interior cavity capable of storing insect bait. A plurality of openings are located on the housing to allow termites to enter and exit the housing and access the insect bait located therewithin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventors: David H. Curtis, Michael R. Latronica
  • Patent number: 6223465
    Abstract: An insect bait-and-switch liquid delivery apparatus for the control of flying insects, especially wasps. The apparatus includes a container for holding liquid bait, a feed station assembly mounted on the container for making the liquid bait available to an insect, and a cover enclosing the feed station assembly. The feed station assembly includes a tubular core which extends into the interior of the container for supporting a capsule containing liquid active toxic to the insect in an upright orientation so that it floats on the liquid bait. As the liquid bait is depleted due to the feeding action of insects, the capsule moves downwardly until it clears the lower end of the tubular core whereupon it tips and releases the liquid active to admix with the liquid bait. Thereafter, as the insects continue to feed they ingest a mixture of the liquid active and liquid bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Soller, Cory J. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6219961
    Abstract: Arthropod containment devices are provided comprising a base plate having a first face, a second face opposite the first face, an outer edge between the first face and the second face; and a containment ridge protruding from the first face along at least a portion of the outer edge, the containment ridge defining a containment region proximate the first face. Also provided are arthropod containment devices comprising a base plate having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, a plurality of guide ridges that protrude from the first face and define at least one containment region, and an arthropod toxicant coated upon or positioned within the containment region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: James B. Ballard, Barry Schwartz, Richard C. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6219960
    Abstract: An insect bait station is disclosed which comprises a receptacle with an opening, the receptacle having a reservoir for an insect bait formulation; a cover with a plurality of gate openings sized to allow selective entry of insects; and a membrane with an opening providing access to an insect bait formulation. The membrane covers the receptacle with sufficient dimensional stability and structural integrity to substantially retain its position while an insect traverses its top surface. In a preferred embodiment, the insect bait station comprises a replaceable cartridge having a reservoir containing an insect bait formulation with a substrate covered by the membrane. Preferably, the membrane having the ability to retard evaporation of the bait formulation. The bait formulation may include an insect attractant and/or an insect poison material in solid, liquid or gel form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Waterbury Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl D. Contadini, Nicholas A. Velezis, John J. Dean
  • Patent number: 6216384
    Abstract: A spill resistant insect bait station having a continuous outer wall leading from the base or bottom surface up to an upper annular surface having a central axial recessed opening therein leading down to a bait source contained in the interior of the station, the interior of the station having an inverted conical concave part shape, so as to provide for flooding or concentration of the bait to the lowest point of the cone or concave part which communicates in close proximity with an opening in the bottom of the central axial recessed opening in which the insect can climb the outer wall to enter the station to retrieve the bait and then exit the station carrying bait back to the insect habitat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Dane Dickson, Stephen M. Costa, Ezra A. Theys
  • Patent number: 6205701
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring and controlling termite infestation. The apparatus is comprised of a termite resistant housing having (1) a bottom, (2) sidewalls having an interior and exterior surface and (3) a top. The top includes an opening for accessing the interior of the housing to identify the presence of termites and to introduce toxic bait into the housing when the presence of termites is observed through the opening for accessing the housing interior. The housing has at least one sidewall opening large enough to permit termites to pass through and nontoxic termite bait fixedly attached to the interior and/or exterior of one or more of the housing sidewalls. A number of alternative architectures are provided which have in common the feature of allowing termites to transition from nontoxic bait to toxic bait that is introduced in a manner that minimizes disturbance to the termite habitat at, without or within the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: David R. Nimocks, III
  • Patent number: 6202341
    Abstract: A compact reusable bait station that can be used for either solid or liquid bait. The bait station has an outer wall that defines an inner bait chamber. The chamber, when sealed, prevents liquid bait inside the chamber from flowing out. The chamber has limited access from the outside to reduce evaporation, drying, and contamination of the liquid bait by preventing unnecessary exposure to the environment. Access to the outside is limited to access ports that are sized to allow access by an insect, but nothing larger. The access port is positioned above the level of the liquid bait to prevent leakage. The bait station is fabricated from reusable material, such as plastic, PVC, polyethylene, polypropylene, etc. and may be opened for cleaning and storage. Different configurations, such as triangular, rectangular, or tubular chambers may be used. Alternative embodiments provide ground attachment spikes which may be an integral part of the bait station or a removable attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventor: Alan Bernard
  • Patent number: 6195933
    Abstract: A system for delivery of fluid material, and more particularly, a bait station for delivery of fluid insecticide, is formed from a base having at least one feeding station, and a reservoir for storing fluid insecticides beneath the base. The insecticide is transferred by capillary action from the reservoir to the feeding station through at least one connecting tube. At least one hollow member extends upwardly from the base to support a cover removably mounted over the base, and to provide a conduit for refilling the reservoir with fluid. The cover and the base are designed to provide access to insects to the feed station when the cover is mounted over the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Keith F. Woodruff
  • Patent number: 6195934
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for controlling termites. The invention provides a tamper resistant bait station, which uses a cellulose bait impregnated with a slow acting toxicant and readily allows entry of termite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: William Francis Megargle, John Ernest Milliner, Michael Dea Andis, P. David Simcox, James Bruce Ballard
  • Patent number: 6194007
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions which are highly effective rodenticides. The compositions include a plurality of glass whiskers which rodents are naturally attracted to for purposes of nest building, or are otherwise induced to pick up in their mouths. Upon biting the whiskers for either transport or eating, the rodents oral mucosa becomes irritated, often to the extent that the rodents are unable to subsequently eat without excruciating pain. Hence, the rodents death by starvation is inevitable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas Sharp
  • Patent number: 6192621
    Abstract: A pest control device is provided for deterring or attracting creatures which feed on vegetables, fruits and flowers grown by farmers and gardeners. The device includes a base portion within which an odorous substance is disposed. The odorous substance is selected to either deter or attract pests and insects. A cap portion is removably securable to the base portion and covers the base portion to prevent the gravitational accumulation of rainwater therein. An unsealed region between the base portion and the cap portion allows odors from the odorous substance within the base portion to flow into the ambient environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Gerald Sterling Fain
  • Patent number: 6189259
    Abstract: An insect bait-and-switch liquid delivery apparatus for the control of insects. The apparatus includes a reservoir defining a first chamber containing liquid bait attractive to an insect and a second chamber containing liquid active toxic to an insect, a first feeding station in the first chamber for making liquid bait available to an insect, a second feeding station in the second chamber for making liquid active available to an insect, a passageway interconnecting the first and second chambers, and an access port disposed to initially prevent or limit access of an insect to the second feeding station during an initial feeding period and to subsequently enable access to the second feeding station via the passageway after the initial feeding period. In one embodiment, the access port is located beneath the surface of the liquid bait, and in another embodiment the access port is located above the surface of said liquid bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Soller
  • Patent number: 6190653
    Abstract: Compositions and lures are described which provide synthetic chemical attractants which function as highly effective attractants for male and female moths, primarily moths of the family Noctuidae. In one aspect, the attractants provide an effective attractant amount of vapor of 3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-1-pentanol or mixtures thereof. In another aspect, the attractants provide vapor blends of acetic acid and one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of 3-methyl-1-butanol, 3-methyl-2-butanol, and 3-methyl-1-pentanol. By attracting male and female moths to traps or baits, the chemical attractants provide a means for detecting, surveying, monitoring, and controlling the moths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Peter J. Landolt, Robert R. Heath
  • Patent number: 6187328
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for detecting and controlling termites. The invention uses a tubular body with a triangular cross section to hold a cellulose bait impregnated with a slow acting toxicant. The tubular body is placed partly in the ground so that the length of the tubular body is along the surface of the ground. The top of the tubular body is transparent so that one can easily view the bait through the top of the tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: James Bruce Ballard, Elleen Patricia Mc Gorman
  • Patent number: 6185861
    Abstract: Provided is a breeding container which is adapted to be lethal to container breeding mosquitoes which contains: a walled structure defining an internal volume, the walled structure being constructed and arranged to contain an aqueous liquid within at least a portion of the internal volume; at least one opening in the walled structure disposed so as to allow mosquitoes to enter the walled structure; mosquito egg laying structure in the internal volume constructed and arranged such that female mosquitoes contact a surface of the mosquito egg laying structure; and an insecticide that is lethal to mosquitoes present in an amount sufficient to kill the female mosquitoes in contact with the surface. Also provided is a lethal mosquito breeding container kit and a method for controlling the population of container breeding mosquitoes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Michael J. Perich, Brian C. Zeichner
  • Patent number: 6164010
    Abstract: A modular pest control system which includes structure that is specifically designed to capitalize upon the physiology and/or behavior of a wide assortment of pests to render the system more attractive to the pests. The system is modular in nature whereby it may be configured as desired or necessary to target any combination of one or more species of pests. The modular system preferably includes, at minimum, a first component in the form of a pest control device that may be releasably connectable to a second component. The first component may contain one or more materials or structural features for controlling any individual species or combinations of species of ground crawling pests, termites and rodents. The second component may be a releasable base for securing the first component to vegetation, building surfaces and materials, or targeted areas of soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: B&G Equipment Company
    Inventors: Eric J. Snell, Bruce C. Yeagle, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6158166
    Abstract: A modular pest control system which includes structure that is specifically designed to capitalize upon the physiology and/or behavior of a wide assortment of pests to render the system more attractive to the pests. The system is modular in nature whereby it may be configured as desired or necessary to target any combination of one or more species of pests. The modular system preferably includes, at minimum, a first component in the form of a pest control device that may be releasably connectable to a second component. The first component may contain one or more materials or structural features for controlling any individual species or combinations of species of ground crawling pests, termites and rodents. The second component may be a releasable base for securing the first component to vegetation, building surfaces and materials, or targeted areas of soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: B&G Equipment Company
    Inventors: Eric J. Snell, Bruce C. Yeagle, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6151828
    Abstract: An insect feeding station (10) for administering a fluent substance such as a poisonous liquid bait to ants and other insects. The feeding station (10) comprises a housing (11) having an interior region (21) adapted to contain the fluent substance. The housing (10) has an opening (27) through which insects can enter and leave the interior region (21), and an internal structure (43) within the interior region (21) for facilitating access by the insects to the substance. The internal structure (43) may take various forms but typically is of a construction which is adapted to at least be partially covered by the substance when the latter is first introduced into the interior region (21) and which is progressively exposed as the substance is consumed. With this arrangement, the portion of the internal structure which is exposed provides a zone away from the liquid bait for supporting the bodies of dead insects. Thus the bodies are "dry-docked" on the internal structure from where they can be retrieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventors: Claude Paul Genero, Gail Ann Genero
  • Patent number: 6149928
    Abstract: The present invention provides a protection system against subterranean termites including a hollow pipe in which termites are able to circulate, a container for containing bait and a branch connecting the hollow pipe to the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Rhone-Poulenc Agrochimie
    Inventor: John French
  • Patent number: 6145242
    Abstract: An integrated pest management system includes an enclosure having a bottom, and a top configured to resemble a natural rock, at least one doorway in the top, allowing the pest to access the interior, and a bait station inside the enclosure for holding bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Integrated Pest Management Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur W. Simpson
  • Patent number: 6145236
    Abstract: An insect repelling device including a mat portion having a recess formed within an upper surface thereof. An insect repellent is disposed within the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Inventor: Randall King
  • Patent number: 6082042
    Abstract: A bait station for containing rat poison contains a housing; at least one opening in the housing for a rat to enter; and a bait position in the housing for locating poisoned bait. A divider is provided between the bait position and each opening to prevent direct access to the bait from the opening, for example by a child. However, there are at least two different routes from the bait position leading to openings. Research has shown that rats, unlike mice, prefer not to eat in a confined space and it is believed that the choice of escape routes offered by the bait station of the invention encourages a rat to eat more of the bait. The bait station may include a hinged lid with locking means to prevent tampering with the bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Aegis Research Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas Issitt