Insect Patents (Class 43/132.1)
  • Patent number: 6606818
    Abstract: An environmental insect control apparatus for forcing insects out of the ground for extermination by flooding the insect habitation. The apparatus includes a perimeter wall for being recessed into the ground surrounding an insect habitation, which forms an enclosed treatment area for the extermination of insects as the insects leave the habitation. A trough is formed between an interior ledge and an upper portion of the perimeter wall. Water circulates through the trough and around the interior side of the wall. The water cascades into the enclosed treatment area to form a pool of water that flood the ant mound. As the water cascades over the lip of the interior ledge, insects attempting to crawl up and out of the trap are swept back down. The insects are thereby forced out of the ground by the water and trapped by the recessed perimeter wall where they can be exterminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: John A. Christmas
  • Patent number: 6606816
    Abstract: Surface ground kits for controlling arthropods such as termites, carpenter ants, fire ants, roaches, and the like, and combinations thereof. Embodiments can include mounting a chamber on a ground insertable member having an edible food source, such as a wood stake, and pressing the member into the ground until the chamber is against the ground surface. The chamber can be cylindrical disc shape having one closed end and closed sides, such as plastic cup, Petri dish, and the like. Optionally, the chamber can be non-opaque so that the interior contents can be viewed from outside the chamber. The lower open end of the chamber can be a layer of an edible non-toxic material such as a layer of foam, and the like. On top of the edible layer, can be a layer of a non-edible foraging matrix that contains the slow-acting non-repellent toxicant within the foraging matrix, and this layer can be visible through the top closed portion of the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventors: Faith M. Oi, Philip G. Koehler
  • Patent number: 6606817
    Abstract: Above ground kits for controlling arthropods such as termites, carpenter ants, fire ants, roaches, combinations, and the like. Embodiments can include mounting a chamber on the inside and outside of a manmade structure such as a house, a building, and a shed. Additionally, the invention can be mounted on a foundation beneath the structure. Furthermore, the above ground invention can be mounted on a side of a fence. Still furthermore, the invention can be placed on the sides of natural items that need protection such as trees, and the like. And still furthermore, the invention can be attached to a planter. Methods for mounting can include adhesive layers such as peel and stick tape, as well as removable fasteners such as hook and loop fasteners. Other fasteners can include nails, screws and stake type members. The chambers can be wrapped in shrink wrap, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventors: Faith M. Oi, Philip G. Koehler
  • Patent number: 6604318
    Abstract: A process for exterminating ants includes covering an ant mound with a dome configured to fit over the ant mound and having a lower lip for contacting the ground entirely around the ant mound. A carbon dioxide delivery system mounted to a top of the dome injects carbon dioxide into the dome and the ant mound to exterminate the ants. The carbon dioxide delivery system typically includes a pipe configured to hold the puncturable carbon dioxide container, and a hollow needle extending from the pipe and into the dome for injecting the carbon dioxide therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Roger Ray Cassidy
  • Publication number: 20030146840
    Abstract: A device and method for detecting the presence of insects in a structure utilize a plurality of transceivers, each of which generates separate and distinct microwave signals and receives separate and distinct signals reflected from a structure being tested. The reflected signals received by each of the transceivers are processed, for instance by a microprocessor, so as to provide output signals that indicate the presence or absence of insects in the structure. If most or all of the transceivers receive positive signals indicative of the possible presence of insects in the structure, which is a false indication of the presence of insects, the microprocessor distinguishes this false indication from an actual indication of the presence of insects, thereby enabling the detection of insects despite the existence of motion signals caused by non-insect motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Dimitri Donskoy, Nikolay Sedunov
  • Patent number: 6601337
    Abstract: The apparatus includes a bladder having an elastic wall capable of being punctured by proboscis of flying insects and being self-sealing. The bladder is made from VTR rubber and may be made from animal skin as well. The bladder contains diluted liquid insecticide and supports means for heating same. The means for heating includes a power source and a rheostat connected thereto and to a heating coil for regulating the temperature of liquid insecticide. A cage supports the bladder therewithin and at least one hanger is attached to the cage for hanging the apparatus on a limb or the like. A first support member engages the cage and has a passageway for receiving therethrough a neck of the bladder. A plurality of clamps secure the cage to the first support member and a cap removably fits above the passageway for preventing the evaporation of liquid insecticide. In alternate embodiments, the cage only surrounds a lower or upper portion of the bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Robert T. McKenney, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20030131523
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for eradicating fire ants by permeating the soil in a fire ant mound with very small particles. These particles tend to infiltrate and disable the joint structure of the ants, eventually killing them. One particularly effective composition is diatomaceous clay—commonly known as fuller's earth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Hugh Miller Rawls
  • Patent number: 6591546
    Abstract: A sealant for sealing around electrical conductors and/or conduits extending through an opening in a pad into a transformer housing. The sealant includes an insecticide dispersed throughout the sealant to kill the ants or insects attempting to enter the transformer housing through the pad opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: CenterPoint Energy
    Inventors: R. Brent Williams, Kenneth L. White, Gregory L. Clark
  • Publication number: 20030126787
    Abstract: A termite lure for use with a hole passing through a slab includes: a tubular container housing a mass of entangled cellulose fibers or a grouping of fiberboard disks; and a rod having a length greater than that of the container or grouping of fiberboard disks extending through the container or grouping. The container or grouping is slidably retained on the rod so that the lure can be easily repositioned along the length of the rod. The lure may also include an expansible plug that seals the hole in the slab. Preferably, the termite lure is used with a non-repellant termiticide and the lure in placed in the hole with the cellulose fibers or the lowermost disk of the lure in contact with the soil beneath the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Harold W. Aesch
  • Patent number: 6588140
    Abstract: A method of pest control which includes forming an enclosure of flexible heat resistant flexible material or fabric about articles forming a working load and heating atmosphere of the enclosure to a temperature which is lethal for the pest being exterminated, and maintaining this elevated temperature in the loaded enclosure for a period sufficient to bring complete working charge to a lethal temperature of 130° F. and maintaining this temperature for at least ten minutes. The treatment is undertaken after determining the air penetration parameters for the enclosure, so as to be able to determine the CFM requirements for achieving an air flow rate of between 10 and 50 air changes per hour in the enclosure, and preferably between 30 and 50 air changes per hour. Heated outside air is introduced to the enclosure at a temperature of at least 200° F., with the temperature in the enclosure being safely elevated until the air temperature reaches the lethal level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Rupp Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger D. Johnson, Thomas T. Danley
  • Patent number: 6584728
    Abstract: A termite colony is treated with a termiticide by locating a bait station on or beneath ground surface, adjacent a building, to attract termites in the region. The bait station container holds nontoxic cellulose bait. An opening in the bottom permits termites' ingress and egress to feed on the bait within the container. An opening in the top permits termite activity within the container to be monitored without disturbing the bait within the container and permits a termiticide to be introduced directly into the soil and termite tunnel tubes beneath the container by passing a termiticide injection tube through the openings in the container and into the soil beneath the container. Preferably, the termiticide is a non-repellent termiticide, which is lethal to termites through ingestion, contact and/or transferal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventors: Harold W. Aesch, Jr., Kenneth R. Chitwood
  • Patent number: 6581325
    Abstract: A device for the control of termites is disclosed, wherein the device is a housing which is adapted so that a moisture absorbing attractant in the housing may be heated by the housing being exposed to the natural thermal radiation of the sun when attached to the ground surface. The lower end of the housing has an opening to the interior for access by termites. Non-toxic and toxic baits may be added to the moisture absorbing attractant when activity is detected or anticipated. The device may be used together with other termite control devices mechanically connected to it. During the day, the device uses the thermal radiation of the sun to heat the attractant which absorbs moisture from the soil. At night, the attractant releases the moisture into the soil, creating a temperature anomaly readily detectable by termites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Gordon Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Gordon
  • Patent number: 6581324
    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. In an alternate embodiment, a radio frequency transmitter will emit a signal to assist with location of the ant or pest nests and thereby permit action to be taken to control the ants. Vibration of the micromachine is preferably effected at intermittent periods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventors: Samuel M. Creeger, Uri Fakiro
  • Patent number: 6581326
    Abstract: A device supporting an insecticide container in actuating fashion for engaging an insect nest. The insecticide is provided as a conventional aerosol spray which includes a depressible head. First and second elongated and telescopically attached members define proximal and distal ends. A handle at the proximal end includes an axial extending slot. A button projection from the first elongated member extends through the slot and permits the handle a degree of axial movement. A platform is arranged at the distal end of the elongated members and supports thereupon the insecticide container. A pair of elongated and telescopically attached rods extend between the handle and the platform and, upon actuation of the handle, axially displaces the platform in a direction towards a tab extending in fixed manner from the distal end of the telescopically attached members, engaging against the depressible container head to actuate the spray container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Keith Smith
  • Publication number: 20030106257
    Abstract: A device capable of supporting an insecticide container in selectively actuating fashion for engaging an insect nest. The insecticide container is typically provided as a conventional aerosol insecticide spray which typically includes a depressible head. The device includes first and second elongated and telescopically attached members defining, in combination, a proximal end and a distal end. A handle is located at the proximal end of the telescopically attached members and includes an axial extending slot. A button projection from the first elongated member extends through the slot and permits the handle a limited degree of axial movement relative to the elongated member. A platform is arranged at the distal end of the elongated members and supports thereupon the insecticide container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventor: Keith Smith
  • Patent number: 6570494
    Abstract: A waterproof cabinet, speakers, power source, processor, and solar panel which together operate to emit high frequency sound waves that can repel mosquitoes and other flying pests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth Charles Leftridge, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6568123
    Abstract: An insect control station provides an analog signal to a speaker and delivers acoustic energy from the speaker to a resonator positioned in the path of the acoustic energy. The analog signal can be provided from a memory by way of a digital to analog converter, from a digital signal processor, or from a mechanical element. Preferably, the acoustic energy emitted from one or more of the control stations of any of these arrangements is simulative of at least a portion of a heartbeat. The control station can include a surface that supports a pesticide, a gluey substance, an attractant (e.g., a pattern), and can deliver one or more feeding stimulants such as acetone, lactic acid, octenol, heat, carbon dioxide or some other byproduct of respiration or digestion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Assignee: Bugjammer, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Roy Nelson, Wayne N. Andrews, Lantz S. Crawley
  • Patent number: 6564504
    Abstract: A subsurface pesticide injection system for use in combination with a structure having a footing formed in a base soil, a stem wall formed on the footing and defining a perimeter of the structure, a fill material disposed on the base soil within the perimeter of the stem wall, and a concrete slab formed on the fill material is provided. The concrete slab has openings extending therethrough. The subsurface pesticide injection and fluid extraction system comprising includes a tubular conduit disposed within the fill material of the structure such that portions of the tubular conduit are disposed adjacent the openings of the concrete slab. The tubular conduit has a sidewall, a first end, a second end, and a plurality of tortuous pores extending through the sidewall of the tubular conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Tom Hoshall
  • Patent number: 6564502
    Abstract: A method of preparing a rapid acting bait composition which is water based and contains a water-sensitive insecticide as an active ingredient is described. The composition is easily applied into cracks and crevices and voids or other pest harborage areas to rapidly kill insect pests, particularly cockroaches. A kit is also described for preparation of the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Ecolab Inc.
    Inventors: S. John Barcay, Douglas G. Anderson, Thomas D. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6553711
    Abstract: Switchable mosquito expelling/killing device including a box body having a clip body for hanging the box body on a user's body. The box body is disposed with a pushing block, an electric mosquito incense mat insertion hole, gas releasing slots, DC socket and a switch. An oscillating circuit and a heater fixing seat, an electric heater and a cell for supplying power are disposed in the box body. The box body can be co-used with a transformer socket to be used indoors. By means of switching the switch outside the box body, the mosquito expelling/killing device can be switched between a mosquito expeller using the oscillating circuit to-generate a sound wave simulating the sound wave of male mosquitoes for expelling fertilized female mosquitoes and an electric mosquito incense device using the electric heater to heat electric mosquito incense mat for releasing mosquito-killing incense to kill the mosquitoes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Long Well Electronics Corp.
    Inventor: Hsiu-Mei Feng
  • Patent number: 6553712
    Abstract: An insect bait station is disclosed. The insect bait station includes: a reservoir for holding a liquid bait, the reservoir having a mouth and a closure for sealing the mouth such that the liquid bait is contained in the reservoir; a piercer for opening the closure of the reservoir such that a liquid wicking device positioned in the mouth of the reservoir may transport the liquid bait from the reservoir and through the mouth of the reservoir; and an activation member for moving the piercer into contact with the closure of the reservoir to open the closure, wherein the insect bait station also comprises an insecticide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Amelia H. Majerowski, Brian T. Davis, Thomas Jaworski, Jonathan N. Mandell, Mary Beth Adams, James W. Yonker
  • Patent number: 6550181
    Abstract: An elevated beetle trap which includes two interlocking bodies each having a slot formed in a surface thereof. A sex lure is disposed in the slot to attract beetles. The beetles collide with the interlocking bodies and fall to a funnel positioned at the bottom of the interlocking bodies. A bag is removably secured to the funnel to house and transport the trapped beetles. Conveniently, the trap may be positioned over a body of water so that dead beetles fall into the water for fishfood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Randy D. Ray
  • Patent number: 6543182
    Abstract: A housing is provided for a station or device adapted for monitoring and/or controlling termites or other insects, and which is adapted to be situated in or on soil or sand. The housing contains a substance attractive for termite exploration and/or termite feeding, and comprises at least one wall and at least one surface, which surface defines at least one path attractive to termites, such as a groove or a channel. The housing can be adapted to receive a second insect monitoring and controlling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Aventis CropScience S.A.
    Inventors: Eric J. Snell, Joe H. Hope, III, Bruce C. Yeagle
  • Patent number: 6532696
    Abstract: A holder for a liquid insect bait, comprises of vacuum or otherwise formed upper and lower halves, which when brought together and sealed about their flanges, form a container for the liquid bait. The back end of the halves contain depression within their flanges, that furnishes a passage for charging the liquid bait into the formed container, when the two halves are sealed together. The bottom of the holder is preformed, to form various cavities, flow passages, chambers, where the liquid bait will flow, by gravity, when charging the station for usage. An entrance cavity at the front of the holder can be instructionally cut, to form an entrance passage for the insects, such as ants, to walk up an inclined ramp to attain access to the liquid bait, as deposited within the various chambers and cavities, during usage of this holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Senoret Chemical Company
    Inventors: William Stewart Clark, III, Thomas David Kraatz
  • Publication number: 20030041506
    Abstract: An insect control apparatus includes a housing bounding an insect collection chamber. The housing has one or more apertures to allow an insect to enter the chamber. A sonic signal generating system generates and broadcasts a sonic signal which sweeps through a range of frequencies to lure an insect into the insect collection chamber. The sonic generating system is configured to pulse the sonic signal so that the sonic signal is cyclically turned ON and OFF.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventor: Andrew Paul Coventry
  • Publication number: 20030041505
    Abstract: An insecticide dispenser for use in eliminating insect larvae in a container of water includes a pouch defining a closed chamber. There is a predetermined amount of a water releasable granule carried insecticide within the chamber. The pouch has a filter portion with openings of a size to permit the passage of water into the chamber and to permit the passage of water-released insecticide out of the chamber into a surrounding container of water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Roderick A. Flinn, William c. Jany, Joseph A. Naro
  • Patent number: 6528049
    Abstract: Novel bisexual attractants for lepidopterous insect pests isolated from pears or apples. A method for monitoring and control of codling moth and other species of Lepidoptera comprising a lure and kill, mating disruption or mass trapping strategy. A method of using a formulation containing the bisexual attractants with or without an insecticide and/or pheromone for control of the insect pests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignees: Trece, Inc., The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventors: Douglas M. Light, Clive A. Henrick
  • Patent number: 6523780
    Abstract: A system for the dissemination of pheromone bearing carrier substrates which includes an airplane/helicopter mountable carrier substrate dispenser, the actuation for release of the carrier substrates loaded into the dispenser being controlled from the cockpit of the plane/helicopter. Each carrier substrate has one A member card and at least one B member card released upon actuation of the dispenser, for disposition of the carrier substrates within treetops, where the pheromone will be released automatically from the substrate of the card to dissipate into the ambient air. The released pheromone acts to confuse male members of a particular pest insect, such that the males are impeded in their efforts to locate females of that specie who would also be disseminating pheromone, to thereby interfere with the mating cycle of such pest insects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Russell Stocker
  • Patent number: 6523298
    Abstract: A method for exterminating existing infestations of ants, termites, insects or other living organisms in structures, soils and other materials using a capsicum-containtg killing solution in either a liquid or vapor form, including the steps of delivering the killing solution to the infested portions of the structure, and contacting the termites, insects or other living organisms forming the infestation. The method obviates the need for toxic or environmentally unsafe chemical compounds, and capsicum is readily available and economical. More importantly, the novel pesticide and method of use of the present invention is highly effective against termites in dry areas, wet areas, inaccessible and exposed areas, including around and under foundations, in ceiling and in wall portions of structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Robert Heinz Neumann
  • Patent number: 6524605
    Abstract: This invention provides compositions and methods useful for repelling target pests. The compositions comprise an amount of a monoterpenoid or sesquiterpenoid effective to repel a target pest from a target area, the monoterpenoid or sesquiterpenoid in combination with a carrier. In one embodiment, the monoterpenoid or sesquiterpenoid is from a biorational source, such as a plant volatile. In a particular embodiment, the plant volatile is a monoterpenoid, such as “nepetalactone” (or the individual nepetalactone isomers) derived from catnip (Nepeta cataria). In another embodiment, the plant volatile is any one or a combination of sesquiterpenoids derived from the fruit of the Osage orange tree (Maclura pomifera). Such compositions have repellency against arthropods, such as cockroaches, mosquitoes, mites, ticks, spiders, and so forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel R. Coats, Christopher J. Peterson, Junwei Zhu, Thomas C. Baker, Leah T. Nemetz
  • Patent number: 6517856
    Abstract: Methods of assaying insects for pesticide resistance and to identify insect species are based on feeding disruption caused by insecticide such as the biopesticide Bacillius thuringiensis toxin (Bt). Further provided are methods for monitoring insecticide resistance in a population of insects, as well as methods of screening compounds for insecticidal activity. Insecticide resistance can be assessed at the level of an individual insect or at population levels. Apparatus and dehydrated insect meal pads useful in such assays are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignees: Agdia Incorporated, North Carolina State University
    Inventors: R. Michael Roe, Woodward D. Bailey, Fred Gould, George G. Kennedy, Chester L. Sutula
  • Patent number: 6515591
    Abstract: The invention encompasses an electrical apparatus. Such apparatus includes RFID circuitry on a first substrate, and sensor circuitry on a second substrate. A receiving structure is associated with one of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry, and at least one connecting structure is associated with the other of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry. The at least one connecting structure is removable received within the receiving structure. The invention also encompasses a method of forming an electrical apparatus. A first substrate and a second substrate are provided. The first substrate has RFID circuitry thereon, and the second substrate has sensing circuitry thereon. A receptacle is joined with one of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry, and has at least one orifice extending therein. At least one prong is joined with the other of the RFID circuitry and the sensor circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Rickie C. Lake, Mark E. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 6513281
    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: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventor: Ernest H. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6513280
    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: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventor: Ernest H. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6510648
    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: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventor: Ernest H. Roberts
  • Publication number: 20030014907
    Abstract: A novel method of positively directing termite activity by the use of radio waves. Also provided is a method of protecting a natural or man-made structure from termite infestation based on termite attractancy of specific radio waves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Terry L. Amburgey, Michael G. Sanders, Craig D. Bell
  • Publication number: 20030014906
    Abstract: A method for controlling termites using a biological control agent and a termite monitor wherein the bait in the termite monitor is treated with the biological control agent, thereby infecting the termites when they eat the bait.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: David J. Roe
  • Patent number: 6505433
    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: January 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: University of Florida
    Inventor: Ernest H. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6505436
    Abstract: A method for exterminating insects associated with destruction of agricultural crops, the method consisting of applying an aqueous killing solution formulation containing capsicum directly to the agricultural crop, particularly for controlling beetles, aphids, mites, flea beetles, cabbage seed pod weavils, glassy wing sharpshooters, striped cucumber beetles, spotted cucumber beetles, Colorado potato beetle, and flea beetles as well as laboratory-cultured D.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventor: Robert H. Neumann
  • Publication number: 20020194775
    Abstract: A lure for bees which is utilized during a rescue attempt. The lure is activated by the rescuer and tossed a short distance away from the attack site to draw the attacking bees, together with newly arriving bees, away from the victim and the rescuer. The lure is equipped with a variety of devices designed to attract the bees, including, but not limited to: noise attraction, chemical attraction, and motion attraction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Mark E. Ogram
  • Publication number: 20020189154
    Abstract: A system and method for removing harmful biological and organic substances from an enclosure, vehicle or container includes protecting heat-sensitive articles within the enclosure. A plurality of temperature probes are positioned at predetermined locations within the enclosure. The air within the structure is heated to a predetermined temperature up to 400° F. to kill organisms and cause harmful substances in the enclosure to migrate into the ambient air. A negative pressure is created in the enclosure and the heated air carrying the harmful substances passed through a filter and is then vented from the enclosure and passed through a filter to remove the harmful substances from the heated air. The system effectively kills, molds, viruses and bacteria and reduces the levels of allergens and volatile organic compounds in the enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: David E. Hedman
  • Patent number: 6493987
    Abstract: A pesticide delivery system includes a service box and a plurality of tubular delivery and dispensing lines for carrying a pesticide from the service box to locations in a building structure and dispensing the pesticide in those locations to control and exterminate pests. The service box includes a plate with holes through which elastic end portions of the tubular delivery and dispensing lines pass. Each of the holes has a conical frustum shaped portion and an annular edge portion that has the smallest diameter of the hole and is less in diameter than an outside diameter, in an unstressed or unstretched state, of the elastic end portion of the tubular delivery and dispensing line passing through the hole whereby the annular edge portion of the hole grips and locks the tubular delivery and dispensing line in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Inventors: Harold W. Aesch, Jr., Kenneth R. Chitwood
  • Publication number: 20020180607
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for nondestructive testing and evaluation of wood and wooden structures for insects using microwave radiation. The apparatus includes a microwave generator, a receiver, an antenna for sending and receiving signals, a signal processor for processing the received signals and a display. The detection method includes generating and sending a microwave signal, receiving a reflected signal, and processing and evaluating the received signal. The evaluation method includes sweeping the frequency of the generated signal to determine the maximum received signal, and comparing the maximum received signal to a standard deviation between the maximum received signal and the standard indicates damage and extent of the deviation indicates the extent of the damage. Preferably, the apparatus is hand-held and the method includes moving the apparatus about a structure to be tested.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Dimitri Donskoy, Nikolay Sedunov
  • Patent number: 6470622
    Abstract: A rodenticide dispensing system includes a bait station as the lower part of a garbage container. The bait station has a horizontally disposed bait rod extending along substantially the full length of the front wall of the container. A hinged, lockable door, provides access to the bait rod, which is releasably supported at its ends. A pair of access holes are provided in the sides of the station for entry and exit of rodents. The access holes are located a substantial horizontal distance away from the bait rod to minimize the likelihood of tampering. The bait rod is supported within the bait station at a desired feeding height for rodents. The bait station may also be constructed as a stand alone unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Braun
  • Patent number: 6467216
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: KM Ant Pro LLC
    Inventors: Robert E. McManus, Kenneth J. Kupfer
  • Patent number: 6467215
    Abstract: A method for attracting insects to control stations in a centralized system includes the steps of generating at the central node an acoustic wave, propagating the acoustic wave through the hollow tubing, and emitting the acoustic wave at the control station to attract insects into an attractant zone proximate to the control station. A method for establishing a barrier to blood-sucking insects and to animal pests is also disclosed. A barrier is defined by arranging plural control stations relative to a central distribution point. According to this method, a central distribution point is provided with a sound source which generates a sound wave suitable for attracting blood-sucking insects. A branching network of hollow tubing is established in which the hollow tubing is communicatively connected to the central distribution point for receiving the generated sound wave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Bugjammer, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Roy Nelson, Wayne N. Andrews, Lantz S. Crawley
  • Publication number: 20020148157
    Abstract: There is disclosed an improved insect bait station and a method of treating insects with a toxicant. The improved insect bait station comprises a screw-shaped body and a top. The screw-shaped body at least partially defines a toxicant/bait-receiving chamber and defines at least one opening to the toxicant/bait-receiving chamber intermediate opposite ends of the body. The top defines an opening to the toxicant/bait-receiving chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: R. Randall Rollins
  • Patent number: 6463693
    Abstract: This invention relates to an insect trap having a receptacle with a rear wall the top edge of which is thin. The trap is placed on a windowsill so the thin top edge of the rear wall lies flush against the window, providing a substantially smooth transition between the rear wall and the window. The receptacle is partially filled with a mixture of water and surfactant. In use, insects flying down the window travel over the thin top edge of the rear wall and continue down and fall into the water and drown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Steven William Weisner
  • Patent number: 6463694
    Abstract: A closed high-volume low-pressure pesticide delivery and recovery system including under building pesticide delivery tubing and a method of using the pesticide delivery tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Edward Manciet
  • Patent number: 6463695
    Abstract: A disposable liquid bait station is configured in the form of a syphon with a bulbous end portion and a stem portion having a passage extending from the end of the stem into the bulbous end portion for syphoning liquid bait from a bottle containing the liquid bait. The stem is cut-off and the remaining portion serves as the bait station. The bait station is then placed in a horizontal position at the desired locations for permitting the ingress and egress of the ants intended to being exterminated. The bait station is thrown away once it has served its purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: John P. McDonough