AU2016253632B2 - Bedbug detection, monitoring and control techniques - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus, ompnrgsizg: a noosing member from whith a plug member configured to 5 engage with an electric socket extends, the housing member lbrther irdtuding a hollow lnterior defining a harborage for one or more insects and in which bali is positioned, the bait including at least one insecticide compound, and an electronic controller positioned in thne hollow interior, the electronic controller being electrically connected with the plug member, wherein an interior wall extends through the hollow interior and partitions the 10 hollow interior into a first chamber and a second chamber, and the bait is positioned in the first chaier and the electronic controLler is positioned in the second chamber,

Description

BEDBUG DETECTION, MONITORING AND CONTROL TECHNIQUES CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS:

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/853,573 filed October 23, 2006 and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/854,378 filed October 25, 2006, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The present application is a divisional application from Australian Patent No,2013200548, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, which is a divisional application Ifom Australian Patent Application No. 2007309475.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to pest control, and more particularly, but not exclusively, relates to the detection, monitoring, and control of insects, including for example, bedbugs.

Recent data suggests fedhug infestations (CiniM species) of human domiciles: are On the rise, At least 92 species have been identi lied globally, of which at least 16 species are in the North American continent Generally, bedbugs are parasitic pests with Its Hosts including humans and various domesticated animals, it is believed that bedbug infestations are: becoming more problematic now at least in part because long acting, residual insecticides are no longer being used to keep bedbug populations in cheek, in addition, increased international travel and insecticide resistance have made bedbug infestations spread and control with insecticides very difficult. In terms of scale, such Infestations are of particular concern for hoteliers, cruise ships, trains, daycare facilities, and the like because of the business reputation risk posed by bad press or bad reviews. Other problematic areas tend to include nursing homes, barracks, dorms, hospitals, and various other forms of high density· housing,: Nonetheless, single tamily homes can likewise be impacted adversely.

For many of these dwellings, the pervasive application of long acting insecticides by spraying and/or dusting is undesirable. As a result, new approaches to bedbug detection, monitoring, and control are being sought. The present application provides contributions along these lines that are not only applicable; to bedbugs, but may also find application In the detection, monitoring and control of other species of Insects.

SUMMARY

One aspect of the invention provides an plug-in device, comprising: a housing member including an exterior wall and an outer cover forming an insect harbouring chamber and an attractant chamber, and a dividing wall separating the insect harbouring chamber and the attractant chamber, wherein the insect harbouring chamber has an opening extending through the external wall that allows insects to enter the insect harbouring chamber, and wherein the dividing wall includes a pest-inaccessible opening that connects the attractant chamber to the insect harbouring chamber; an electric-powered device positioned in the attractant chamber to attract insects; and a plug member electrically coupled to the electric-powered device, wherein the plug is structure to engage an electric socket and defines a cantilever to support the plug-in device above floor level when engaged in the electric wall socket, wherein (i) a bait is positioned in the insect harbouring chamber, (ii) the electric-powered device has an attractant that is configured to be released as electrical power is supplied from the plug, and (iii) the pest-inaccessible opening is structured to facilitate passage of the attractant from the attractant chamber to the insect harbouring chamber to attract insects to the insect harbouring chamber.

One embodiment of the present application includes a unique technique to detect, monitor and/or control insect infestations. Other embodiments include unique methods, systems, devices, and apparatus to detect, monitor and/or control bedbugs. A further embodiment includes: a detection arrangement including one or more sensors each structured to at least detect nitrophorin and provide a corresponding sensor signal; a controller responsive to the sensor signal of each of the one or more sensors to determine if the nitrophorin is indicative of bedbug presence and generate a corresponding output signal; and an indicator responsive to the output signal to indicate the presence of the bedbugs.

Still a further embodiment comprises: operating an insect control or detection device to determine if bedbugs are present in a room that includes analyzing a substance from the room to detect nitrophorin and indicating that bedbugs are present to an operator if nitrophorin is detected by the analyzing of the substance.

Yet a further embodiment for determining the presence of bedbugs in a room comprises obtaining a sample of a substance from the room; analyzing the sample to determine if nitrophorin is present in the substance; and providing an indication of the presence of bedbugs in response to the determination of the presence of nitrophorin.

One or more embodiments provide a unique technique to control insect infestation.

One or more embodiments provide a unique method, system, device, or apparatus to control or detect and monitor for bedbugs.

One or more embodiments provide an apparatus to monitor for presence of bedbugs, comprising: a sensing arrangement including one or more sensors structured to analyze a substance received by the arrangement and generate one or more corresponding sensor signals; a controller operatively coupled to the sensing arrangement, the controller being structured with operating logic to determine if nitrophorin is included in the substance based on the one or more corresponding sensor signals and generate an output signal representative of the presence of bedbugs in response to a presence of the nitrophorin in the substance; and an output device responsive to the output signal to operate in accordance with the bedbug presence.

Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

Pig. I is a diagrammatic viewof a system suitable to detect, and address bedbug infestation,

Fig. 2 is: a diagrammat ic„ panlaI sectional view of a first type of device of the system of Fig;. !.

Fig. $ is a diagram malic pasted seetional view sf a second type of device of the-system of Fig. i that eliminates bedbugs with an Insecticide. This second type of device can he Used in addition to or in lieu o f the device of Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a flowchart depietlng one procedure lor using the system of Fig, I,

Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic view of a second type of system su itable to address bedbug infestation.

Fig, 6 is a diagrmnmatiCi, partial sectional view of a first type of device of the system of Fig, 5 that includes: an insecticide to eliminate bedbugs.

Fig. 7 is a diatgdfemaiic partial sectional view of a second type of deviceof the sy stem of Fig. 5 , TMh second type of device can be used in addition to or in lieu of the device of Fig. 6.

Fig. 8 is an on-chart depicting one procedure tor using the system of Fig. 5,

DETAILED DESCRIPT1GNQFREFIIE5ENTA7IYE EMBODIMENTS for the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference' will now be Msaeto the Omljodiraents illustrated in the drawings andspecific language Will be used to describe the same, it will usverthstess be understood that no limitation of the scape of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments, smdafvy further uppl scat sonsof the principles of the ιην^ιϊόη as^described herein areeontemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art So which the invention relates.

Bajfertio| ro w to Fig. S, there is iliustraied a diagrarnmatic view of a system 10 suitable to address an insect infestation, such as bedbugs, ® room 15. System 10 includes at least one device 20, which, as illustrated, is attached to leg 41a of bod 40 and is suitable lor one or more of detecting, monitoring and controlling an insect population, such as a bedbug population. The total number of devices 20 used in system 10 may vary in relat ion to the infestation problem and/or the time period in which an elfeetive removal Is desired. Bed 40 further tttelwdes legs 4!h-41d which arc Interconnected vis a frame 42 and a headboard 44 ta form a support for a mattress 44 placed on top of box springs 45. It should be appreciated that in alternative srabodiments, bed system 40 may comprise one or mare components in addition to pr in lieu of those il)ustra|ed in Fig. I, For example, in other embodiment bed system 40 may lack box springs 45 or headboard 43, of may include a footboard. In yet another embodiment,, bed system 40 thay only melude:#afrress 44 on top of box springs 45 set directly on floor 16 of room 15. Device 20 may be attached to bed leg 4 la by pny type Of tbstener, ineludlng bui not limited to, a nail,. screw, bolt, tuck, elaiiip, :su4pr adliealv©, iapc, hook anl loop connector (such as YEOjEO), andfersueh different fastener variety as would OeCut to thOBe skilled in the art. In an alternative embodiment not illustrated, device 20 may he placed elsewhere on the structure of bed system 40. For example, device 20 may be placed oft dhy Qf legs 4la-4 id, frame 42, headboard #, a portion of mattress 44, or ert box springs 45, In another alternative embodiment device 20 may be placed ofi either of wall 17 or 18, or elsewhere in the room 15,

Itshouldfee understood that as il I dirked m Fig, 1, system 10 is being ussd inmom 13, where room 1:5 belongs to a: dormitory, hostel, shelter, hotel, motel, bed and breakfast, inrt, ten», cabin, nursing home, hospital, and/or house Just to name:» few pos^lhliities. In a further embodiment, system 10 may be used at any location In which a blood meal, particularly a human blood meal, might he in the presence of a bedbug during a bedbug feeding period,such as oighfome. For example, system 10 might be placed in the sleeping rooms of eafeins of a vehicle {such as a ship, train, or motor coach), or in sleepingrooms of daycare ceniers and schools. System 10 may be individually configured ip accordance with the spec! fie anrihutes of sach location.

Addίtioissl the placement of device M yvithin a designed ama may not only vary with different locations, but can also vary in accordaneeto vas«atevid«nee indicating the increased probabi I i ty of nearby bedbugs or bedbug harborages, for example, device 20 may be placed in close proximity to one or more of bedbug excrement or focal matter, molted sxoskeleton Shells, eggs, or blood spots. In one embodiments device 20 may be placed in close proximity to the likely location of a buttian blood meal host, like for example near mattress 44. In another embodiment not lifostrated, device 20 may be placed on or near one or more bedbug harborages in the form of a crack, gap, or crevice, For example, device 20 may be placed near peeling wallpaper or cracks in die dry-wail or piaster of cither of walls 17 and 18- In rOOift 15, Additionally, for an embodiment in which loom I® includes one or more trim moldings mounted to walls 1? and/or 1 g, device 30 may be played in cfo?» proximity thereto. For one variation, device 20 is shaped and structured to simulate trim molding or another«omrnbR decor feature typically found in a bedroom. In another embodiment, device 2d may be placed next to flooring or! the surface effloor 16, like for example near the edge of either securely fastened or rolled back carpet, In aoother variation, device 20 may be placed on or near one or more of air duct vents 21, which may communieate with one or Mote of a supply air dost dr afeturn aarduct, as would he appreeiatedhy one having skill in the art. In another fonn, device 20 may he placed in the supply air duet or return air duct eommuuicatmg via vents 21. it is farther contemplated that device 20 may be placet] in any position effective for bedbug control

Device 20 is shown in greater detail in a diagrammatic partial sectional view in Fig. 2. Device 20 includes a housing nminber 32 deithed by an exterior wall 34 and a top cover 36 enclosing an internal chamber 35 Which houses a sensing arrangement s? generaUyincl edits g interconnected sensor 38, controller 48. indicator 52, and power sourcc 56. if is contemplated that in alternative embodiments not shown, sensing arrangement s? may mefodsoneor mote components in addition to or in lies of that illustrated in Fig, 2, It should funher be undersiood that in various embodiments the componentryof sensing arrangement 3? may be arranged in one or more alternati ve fashions to that depicted in Fig. 2-,

Sensor 38 extends iteughexteriorwail 34 as opening 49 such that sensing portion 42 may be externally exposed to the environment of the area in which device 20 is placed.

Sensor 38 is generally structured to analyze one or more biochemical substances 144 to determine if it is mdicative of bedbug biochemistry. A few detailed examples of the biochemical detection mechanisms performed with sensor 38 are furfeer described hereinafter in connection with reference to Figs. 1*3 gcncitiHy. While sensing portion 42 is illustrated as being at least partially external to chamber 35, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments sensing portion 42 may be entirely disposed within chamber 35. In these embodiments* device 2Θ may include ope or more components to convey a biochemical substance, 'for example, WS^je-gai^.'itiP'-SMl^.--6!Eiiife§t0iti0e. 144 being carried in the air, an air handhhgisystem Eke a fen or suction deyicecafthe included to at least bring part of a bidehamilalsufestanee 144 into internal chamber 35 through opening 40 to engage sensing portion 42: of sensor 38, in another form, device 20 may include one or more openings in addition to opening 49, with each additional opening being stinctured to guides medium carrying biochemical substance' 144 hire Contact with an internally disposed sensing portion 42. For example, when device 20 iSpi^ediOrs. Of pai'air duct ;vtnt§: ii, or in the air duels themsei’yes, the opening m$y be strucrured to channel the airflow moving around device 29 Into contact with sensing portion 42.

In response to biochemical substance 144, sensor 38generaiesa corresponding sensor signal feat ss conveyed along signal pathway 46 ίο controller 48, Controller 48 operates in accordance with operating logic to determine if the signal tndteafes the pfesence of biochemistry indicative of bedbug presence and/or another target mseettype. Controller 48 is comprised of one or more components that may be configured as a single unit, or distributed among two or were obits. Such eoropnnenis msy he pf a; solid state. electromagnetic,, optical, and/or different variety as would occur to those skiiled in the art. The, controller 48 may include analog circuitry, dtgiM:.dFca^?.anif«ff:'ia hybrid eombsnatiori of both of these types, in one form, the controller 48 is of fee programmabls variety thatexeeutes algorithms and processes data in accordance wife its operating logic heingdefined by programming instructions (such as software or firmware). Alternatively or additionally, the operating logic for controller 48 is at least partially defmedhy Hardwired togic arciher hardware.

After controller 48 receives andproccsses ihe scosOi sigsial, acomiolici output signal is output along signal pathway 45 loan:Μ&Εογ 52. Indieator 52 is generally structured to prtwide a human operator wife an output to indicate the absence of a biochemfeal substance 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry. As illustrated in Fig. 2, indicator 52 includes an output in the form of visual markers 54. Visual markers 54 may be m one or ftiore foists of a tight, such as a light emitting diode (LEO), fluorescent, incandescent, and/or rtodn tXpe,: 4toongs possibilities. In each form, the presence of biochemical substance 144 may be indicated by, for example, a discrete yes/no indicator, a color change, a flashing sequence, Of other change In indicator state. In alternative forms, indicator 52 may provide an output indicating the presence of biochemical substances 144 in the form of a colorimetric strip or an aural/audin signal. In one Form, when the output of indicator 52 is in an aural form, the presence of biochemicaisubstance 144 may be indicated by one or more of a single Or ssfuetgiai beep, chime, nng,horn, and click Just to name a fewpossihiliiics. In one implementation, a quantitative evaluation is provided by varyiog the indication with the number ef bedbugs present, such as providing a more intense color indicator, a !ouder and/or more frequent aural indicator, or the like in response to detection of a greater bedbug presence.

As Hlwsitated in pig, 2, sensing arrangement 37 ineludes a power supply 5£> structured to send electriealpowcrto controller 48,sensQf 38, and/or indicator 52, as needed. Only power supply pathway 58 to controller 48 is II lustrated. it should be appreciatedthat certain types qfsepspf 38 and/or-indicator 52 may derive any needed electrical power frompathway 4fi andtof S8 as needed, and that in still other embodiments such componentsdie passive, not vneedihgwy/type of persisierst electrical power source. AS illustrated, power supply 56 is located within internal chamber 35 and may be prbyided tortotample, in the ibrm of one or more electrochemical ceils pi battery of such cells. Ip ap alternative embodiment, power is sourced externally from an electrical socket, sush as Wall receptacle 10 in: Pig, 1, in '-which case, supply 56 is understood to fee at least partially external to devise 20, It should be appreciated that sensing arrangement 37 may be modified for use with a DC power source or an AC power sourceighd that the modification of components may fee dependent upon the availability ofone or raprs fonns of the power source. In another form, a renewable external power source, sdefe SS a solar uell disposed:.00 top cover M of deyiee 20, may be used to provide-sensing urrapgement 37 with poweri It is further contemplated that in other embodiments one or more of sensor 38, controller 48, and indicator 32:, each includes its own power source. The compnetite of sensing arrangement 37:iBeludtng:Sensor 38, eontroller 48, and indicator 52 may be ahematively Inforeonnected, f or example; in one arrangement the components of sensing: arrangement 37 may be s«terconi\eg^ asing wired or wireless techniques with corresponding signals structured in an appropriate iashion, it should be appreciated that some implementations may be passimfo nature, so that nopower::fouree;i:S needed, and alternatively or additionally no controller may be utilised. As further described elsewhere in the present application, a colorimetric strip sensi ti ve to one or more bedlug-speeifie bioehemicals provides one nonlimiting example of a scnsor/mdieatGr device that lacks a power source and costrolier.

Once bedbugs have been detected, eei operator can determine whethertoconduei an extermination process, such as the application of one or more types of insecticides toxic to bedbugs. Such types of insecticides are foriher described as follows,

Fig . 3 depicts a; vie wof device 70 which is suitable for use in- system 10 and configured for one or more of detecting, roomtoring and controlling an insect pspuiatiqn, sucb as a bedbug population. Device 70 includes an operator handle 72 opposite a bouripg:member 74, Operator handle 72 is generally structured for engagement by the hand of a human operator and may including knurling 73 to increase operator gripping capabilities. In eiternaPve forms not shown, operator handle 72 may isvclwds on© or more grip ephaifoing features in, addition to or in lieu of knurling 73 . For example, in one form a rubbereoaiingmay be applied tooperator handle 72 while in another form operator handle 72 may include one or mere ergonomic hand grips, in another embodiment, handle 72 may be frge from any grip enhancing features.

Lansing member 74 inelwdss: an exterior wall 7S:aMh,fop cover 80 which together form M infernal chamber 78 Struciured to house and provide protection lor sensing arfanpmpt S i and exterminating arrangement. 109. Sensing anangemem 81 Includes an interconnected sensor 83, cbatibller 94, indicator 100, and power source 104. if is contemplated that in alternati ve embodiments riot steWo, sensing arrangement S i may include components in addition to or ip lieu of that illustrated in Fig, 3. k should further be understood that in vari o us embodiments the componentiy of sensing arrangement 81 may be arranged in one or more alternative fashions to that depicted: in Fig, 3,

Sensor 82 extends through exterior wall 76at opening 84 such that sensing portion 86 may be externally exposed to the environment Gf the area in which device 70 is being used, Similar to sensor 38, sensor 82. is generally stmefored to analyze one or more biochemical substiuices 144 igdicaike of bedbug presence. A few detai led ex&npfes of the biochemical detection mechanisms performed with sensor 82 are further described hereinafter in connection with reference to f igs. 1-4 generally. Whilesensing portion 86 is ilfostraied as extending beyond internal chamber 78 - being at least partially external thereto - it should be understood thatm aiterhatMehtbodifftfents sensing portion 86 may be entirely disposed within chamber 7& It? these embodiments, as described above, device 70 may include one or more simaures to convey substances 144, bringing alt or part of it into contact with an iifsposseii. is^sirigipiCirtiO'ra-S6> Device 70 Pity also include one or more openings in addition to opening 84, with each additienat opening being: stf^ettsred to guide » medium carrying biochemical substance 144 into contactwith an internally disposed sensing portion 86.

Upon sensing biochemical substances 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry, sensor 86 : sends a corresponding sensor signal to controller 94 via signal pathway 92, Dontroller 94 can be configured in any of a number of ways such as described in connection with controller 48. After controller 94 receives and processes sensor signal 90, a controller output signal is sent to indicator 100 via signal pathway 96. indicator 100 is structured m provide a human operate r with an output,Signal: nbfifytbg. the operator of the presence of biochemical substance 1444nd5catfVft of bedbug bigchernistry, indicator 100 includes visual martos 102 so notify a human operator of bedbug Moehemistey similarities and the probability of the presence pf one or more bedbugs. Visual markersl02 are generally structured and operative is a manner similar to that deseribed above in regard to visual markers 54, Furthermore, as indicated above, indicator 160 may provide OutputM^ a human operator of the presence O'fbiochemical substanee 144 indicative of a bedbug in one or more forms in addition to or b lieu of visual markers 102. For example, an aura! signal or a colorimetric strip may be utilized. It should be appreciated that any empm signals provided by indicator 100 may include any one of mote features described above with respect to the output signals which may be pmvided by indicator 57 A jmwef source 104 is included in internal chamber 78 that provides electric power to controller 94, sensing arrangement 81, arid exterminating arrangement 109, respectively. The provision of such power to arrangement 81 and/or 109 may be via controller 94 and/or by separate power conveying pathways not shewn, In still other embodiments, some or all ©f the components of arrangements 81 and 109 are passive in nature, not requiring a persistent source of power. Power source 104 may be in the form of a DC battery, or in an alternative form, may not be posidoned witKin internal charober?S. In one such aUemarive, the power source 104 may be an AC source, such as wail receptacle 19 in Fig, 1. As described above in reiardlto atthngomeht .3.7, it is contemplated that the components ofarrangements 8 i, 109 may be individually powered and can be interconnected through one or more wired or wireless pathways^

When sensing arrangement 81 indicates one or more biochemical substances 144 of bedbugs, a human operator may use device 7® to commence extermination via exteiminaiiag arpshg^em 109. Exterminating arrangement 109 includes apushbutton ! 10. I» response to the depression of pushbutton 110, control module 112 sends a release signal on Signal pathway 116 to an exterminating module 118. As illustrated inphaMom, exterminating module 1 11 includes an internal reservoir 120 eonnmmicating with anappHeator tip 122, A closing member 12¾ is biased to a closed position adjacent the appiicator tip 122. "Tire contents of reservoir 120 include an insecticide 124 toxic to bedbugs, in response to the release signal from signal pathway 116, member 123 opens to release insecticide 124 in a fluid form, such as an aerosol, gas, liquid, or powder. When the operator releases the depressed button 11®, the release signal changes statein such manner that member 123 rererns: to its dosed state in response, ceasing the release of insecticide 124. in an alternative erabodiment nut shown, exterminating module 118 may be directly cpnnected ¢0 eohhOller 94 and may react directly to the presence of biochemicaS substance 144 to release insecticide 124 'automatically, without any action by a human operator, in One such form, insecticide 124 is control released and confined to the area in which biochemical substance 144 is detected. In another embodiment exterminating system 109 may be mechanical in nature, such that as opetaier release batten 115 is depressed, member 123 is opened to permit releaseiOfinsecticide; 124,. In this form, extereainatingsystem 109 may not .include any connection So sensing arran gement 81 or po wer source 10% insecticide 124. notHiimtmg examples of which will; be provided; herein below, may be of one or more forms effective for exterminating a bedbug pcpulfttion as would be-pppreciated by one having ordinary skill In the art. The mrectieidCiC&ri be provided in a form intended, to be ingested by bedbugs and/or to provide exposure: sufficient for extsnninationhy external, contact with the body of a bedbug. In siiil another Form, the insecticide may be provided in a vapor form which may be insufflated through one or more spires les of a bedbug.

Referring now generally to Figs. 1-3, devices 20,70 may comprise any number of suitable matbriais including certain polymers, woods, metals, or any mixtures thereof Moreover, ene qr more of devices. 20 may be used wtih one or mare of devise 70 in a farther embodiimerit. It should appreetaied that each of de vices 20,7® is hot limited to the form as illustrated ip respective Figs, 2 and 3, for example, device 29 may be configured for handheld operation while device 70 may be configured for semi-perm&nsntplacement in additional alternative farms, devices 20, 70 may be wheeled devices or robotic devices structured to scan, for example, room 15. indicator 52,100 may providemfonrsation in additiontoa positiveor negative indication of toodhereical subsiimce Γ44. In one form, a relative coneentration or quantitative nu.« s\irt racn! of an analyteused by sensor:.38:, 82 may be provided by ίύϋίϋίϋοι 32,100.

When such tnidrmaimi! is provided, seftsor 38, 82 may indudeanoperator viewingsereen on which the relevant information is displayed, in these forms, controller 48,94 may provide indicator 52,100 with a pre-programmed control mode! upon which the human operator may compare the levels of biochemical substances 144 detected to determine if one or mote bedbugs are present orif further detecting is necessary. It should aiso he appreciated thatthe dtitpi provided by indieator SS, 300 may vary in: relation to acharaetenstk ofthe bsoehemieai substance 144 analyzed by sensor 38, SS, For example, mmsponseto different coneeniratioR levels of biochemical substance 144, indicator 52, lOQmayprovide visual marker?:54, 102 including levdsiOf brightBess which correspond to the conccmration level of biochemical substance 144, Additionally hr alternatively, aural/sudio signals may be provided which include volume levels and/or output: sequences which correspond to the substance 144.

In a further embodiment information-Is relayed by a wired or wireless eommuhicaion pathway from device 20,70 to a remote site for further data collection and analysis. This remote site could be a computer coupled to device 20 and/or 70 by a computer network in a designated .roam of ahotek nursing: home, cruise step, train, dormitory, barracks, hospital, or the like and/or could even be remote relative to such structures, jikda pest coni rat service priwiderbusIhCsk: Ibcaiion or the like.

As indicated above, serisdr 38, |2: tS generally structuxedlo analyze at iesst one biochemical substance 144 to determifte if it is indicative of bedbug biochemistry, in addtfioh to air handling mechanisms,transport of an analyte to sensor 3:8, S2 cars be accomplished by a swab» wipe, tissue, or towelette or the like either with or without a wetting agCnt,such as distilled water, to collect a sampie far biochemical analysis. Alternatively or addition^} 1¾ a dust/particulate collector is utilized with of without a wetting agent, to a further approach, a liquid is applied in aerosol form to the air and/os- to one or more surfaces and cOSlsctod for setssof :aitalysis.: Any of th^e transport mechanisms can be manually a-nA'br automafisally pertoimed, in one particular variation, the sample is cofleeted with a device that includes pi agent in liquid or aerosol form, which is intended to react with one or more b&amp;^pfiieals Mdative of bedbugs. Severs 38,82 can include any chemical reaction, ariMges^(ibo<% reaction, galvanic, electrochemical, fluorescence, spectroscopic, and/or chiOHmtegrafdiy^iecl®jqueofthe like to detect a biochemical substance 144 or group ofsuch substances Windieative of a target insect types, such as bedbugs. Certain specific examples »f these implementations are further described irnhcexamples that follow.

It is contemplated that the biochemical substance 144 may be any compound or fehfohinWfoUof compounds thp ore distinctly assetc/aied with bedbug biochemistry. In one form, biochemical substance 144 may be one or more or any combinatipn of bedbugsahva, exoskeletonp lost antennae and other body parts, pheromones, hormones, kairomones, proteins, bodily secretions including fecal matter, other waste products or by-products, and/or seminal fluid, and eggs and egg residue. It is contemplated that arrangement 37, 81 may be modified in various embodiments fo detect one or more of each the listed biochemical substances 144 as well as other bioehemieai substances indicative of bedbug biochemistry.

The speclile biudhemieal subsjanee(s) 144 anaiyicd iiiay vary. In ons form where the biochemical substance sought to be tmalyxed is a bedbugexoskeleton, chilin comprising acetylglueiisamine (N-acetyi -D-glsieos-2-amine) may he- sensed by sensor 38,82. In' another form, when bedbug saliva is analyzed by sensor 38, 82, an anticoagulant or anestbetic may be the substance sought to be deteeted. In one specific implementation of saliva analysis, one or more proteins, such as nitraphon n and apyrase, or peptidesfornung the proteins, may be the targeted biochemical substance 144, Any one or more of marrahaiian red Wood cells, white blood cells, platelets, glucose, iron and plasma* the plasma including but not limited to, albumin, thrombogenic iac tors, immunoglobulins, hormones^ proteins, and/or electrolytes, may he detected ss biochemical substance i 44 when sensor 38. 82 analyzes bedbug fecal matter, in analyzing a substance to deiermiue if it is bedhugsemical fVuids sensQr 38,82 may detect for the combined presence Ofalanine and glutamic acid and/or DNA or RNA specific th a bedbug species. In another form, sensor 38, 82 may detect the presence of bedbug hormones, kairomones, and/or pheromones in any state of matter Isolid* ..liquid or gas). In One Such implementation, sensor 38, 82 may be structured to detect: for one or more of trans-oet-2-en-1 -ai or trans-hex-2-en»l -ab It should be appreciated that; sensor 38,82 may be Structured to detect asy number of combinations of compounds in order to yield a more reliable result as m the detection of a biochemical substance 3 44 indicative of bedbug biochemistry.

Seizor 38> 32 may include one or more features structured ip facilitate chemical analysis of biochesnical substance 144 to deiemursetfitis indicative of bedbug biochemistry. In one form, sensor 38, '12 includes application of an agent as aerosol spray and/or liquid to the biooheraicai substanee 144. Such agent is selected to cause a desired chemieal reaction with the target biochemical substance(s) 144 that facilitates detection with sensor 38,81. In one form, the agem causes an endothermic or exothermic reaction between one or more biochemical substances specific to a bedbug, lb this: form, sensor 38,82 includes a thermometer Sirtsetured to record differences in temperature which may resufi from the : «action. Upon detection of a selected amount of change in temperature, arrangement s?, 81 provides a positive indication «fihe presence of biochemical substance 144. In a variation of this approach, arrangement 3?„ II indicates that at least a temperature correspondingm an increased level of bipchemicai substance 144 is present below the threshold,»? which point a human operator ©paid decide whetherfo continue searching In another form, the aerosol may be structured to pro vide an elebtrdcbem Seal reaction with the biochemical substance 144. Sensor 38,82 may thendneMettt measure electrical ourrent/voitage or other electrical property associated with the eieetroehemica! reaction such ihatarraogemert? 37, 81 may determine If the biochemical substance 144 is indicative of bedbugs. In still other forms, the reaction results of the target biochemicalCs) and/or oxygon concentration indicative detectable with sensor 38 and/or 82,

Sensor 38, 82 may further include a molecular!)' Imprinted polymer structured to detect one or more potential biochemical substances 144. The molecularly imprinted polymer includes a plurality of reception sites which have been specifically modified for a targeted molecule, like for example, one of the bedbugdndieative compounds listed above. Sack reeepddn site wit! generally include' a shape, sice, and fonctionhiity unique to the targeted molecule, In one non-limiting form; the rodlecUlafly imprinted molecule may include reception sites which extract one or more of iraris-od-2-en»S-a! or trarss-hex-2-en-l-ai fipmsan air flow that passes ihemhyi ©nee a sufficient: amount of the one or more of trans-001-2-60*1-41 Or iranS-hex-^en-Ί -al Is extracted and hound to the m olecularly imprinted polymer section of sensor 38,82, a corresponding signal to, indicate bedbug presence may be sent to controller 48,94 and/or to Indicator 50, §2,

In one form in which device 20, 70 detects the presence of a bedbug exoskeieton including chi tin, which compri ses acsty lgl ucosam ine (N-aceiybl3~:glueosr2:*am ine), sensor 78, 85 provides an en?yme in the form of a lysoryme As would be appreciated by one haying skill in the art, the lysozyme hydrolyses N*aeety!-D-gIueos-2-amine linkups to break-up the chitin structure. Sensor 38, 82 may be structured in one or more forms to detect the concentration of owe or mare molecules as the Jesuit of thehydro lysis reaction and amangement 37, 81 may determ meand indicate whether the tested sample is likelya biochemical substance 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry based upon the concentration changes, or lack thereof, that result ism the reaction.

Sensor 3 8,82 may utilize one or more forms of a wipe assay in alternative embodiments, in ihis form. one or more wipes may he used to swab a surface desirable for analysis and then piaeed into an assay anaiyaer ofsensor 38,82. In one form, anenzyme-linked immunosorbent:assay (El#A) may%pmvided at sensot 38,82 to provide detection of a targeted antibody in bedfaugsaiiva. The assaymay utilize an igEantihody which is specificTo a mtrOphonR *idpn: present in the bedbug saliva* Another antibody coupled to an enzyme is provided which reacts with the nUrophonmlgE antibody complex as would he appreciated by one having; skill in the art, The second antibody may provide a chromogernc or fluurygeuic sigual indioutivc of tlm pteseoee orthc nitrophoilmigE antibody complex. Consequently* a corresponding signal may be sent to controller 4S, 94 so that arrangement 37, 81 can indicate the presence of biochemical substance 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry. it should-be appreciated that sensor 38, 82 may:utilize one or more biochemical reactions or analysis techniques to determine the presence of biochemieal substance :144 indicative of a bedbug. These biochemical reactions and analysts techniques may include,, but are not limited to* an electrochemical reaction; an antigen-antibody reaction; an endothermic - reaction; an exothermic reaction; assay analysis;; SDS-Page; a glucose reaction moniter; end Ksstlc^Mcyer analysis just: to name u few examples. Additionally or sltCmatively, detection based on spectrometry and/or chromatography can be utilized, 'including for example, mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography, Furthermore, it is contemplated thgt as additional biochemical Substances 144 specific to bedbug biochemistry become targeted substances, arrangements 12,..81: may be modified accordingly in order to provide adequate sensing techniques. Additionally, each of devices 2§, 7Q may include, one or more sensors in addition to sensors 38, 82 to either provide an expanded surface area of detection or an increased number of targeted hiocheml cals, Tuithonnorc, it should be appreciated that as the targeted biochemical substance 144 changes, controller 48,94 may hil'so change in order so adequately handle sensor signals. Md^^admple,dh:!g^ittg.:{b^s»: controller 48,94 may be programmed with one or more control feels upon which determination <# vaifing tarp^ sufeslaneefs) 144 indicative of bedbug biochemistry i s lo be evaluated. iiVPM.tesnrief.bfdei^U.sn^-'S biochemical substance 144, devices 20,70 ate speifically structured to identify the protein mirophorin by, for example, detectsng eneor more peptides or peptide fragments thereof, in this form, sensor lSi 82 may be contacted with a surface in a room where bedbug infestation might be likely to facilitate potentiaf exposure .to nitr ©phorin, Additional ly or alternatively, an exemplary sample of any substances 0« the stiiiace may be obtained b^·a user and then exposed to sensor 38,82, In this latter manner, If should be appreciated that the sample may be further treated or processed before exposure to sensor 38, 82, including, for example, being mixed with one or more solvepis or dthpr cfeier agents es necessary to facilitate analysis by sensor 38,82, Sensor 38, 82 may utilize any one or more of the analytical methods described above, including one or more of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry and antigen-antibody reaction, for determining the presence of nitrophorin. If the presence of nitrophorin is positively Indicated, devices 20, 70 may automatically notify a user of such. In another form, sensor 38, 82 determines the concentration of nitrophorin and compares that concentration with cpnceMrailon feds: pto-ptogtommed into devices: 20, 7Θ which are indicative of bedbug presence before notifying a user of the presence of nitrophorin. Upontheposltive identificationpf s requisite amount of nitrophorinva user tody selectivdy apply an insecticide to the room or take other appropriate actions.

As an alternative or addition to biochemical sensing techniques, other bedbug sensing iffiichantsmS can he feiteed. For example, a sensor response ve to the weight rii ahedbug and/or the mechanical force exerted by a bedbug srsiiy be utilized. In another instance, eleetromagnciic radfeidh is used to sense bedbugs by returning, blocking, and/or dispersing the rotation in a manner that cap he detected and identified as being indicative of bedbug presence. In a specific implementation of this approach, bedbugs in device 20 and/or 70 are directed along a path such that a light beam directed across the path is broken/blocked when a bedbug travels along such path. As a result, the output signal from an optica! detector responsive to the light beam changes stale, indicating the presence of the bedbug. Likewise, acoustic energy, such as ultrasound, may be used tc detect bedbug presence. Additionally or alternatively, tarsal recognition or spectral analysis (including without limnanon ultraviolet and infrared techniques} may also he used to detect the presence of the bedbugs.

Various features of devices 20,70 can be combined or omitted in oiherembodiments. lit one arrangement, device 29 or 70 is provided in the firm of a probe with a sensing surface defined by sensor 32, 82, For example, the sensing suriace may be impregnated wkh a deieetor sufestpee which is exposed to a liquid bearing a sample submitted fordeteeiicm of insect, Of be#qgi indioaliye bsoeheinlcals. In response to the presence of such biochemieais in the positive result), the sensing surface; changes color to Indicate likely insect presence, As such, this surface also acts as an indicator in this arrangement, such that a separate indicator is not:needed. In one form, this probe may resemble a human pregnancy test. In still other arrangements, it should be appreciated that controller, sensor, and/or indicator functions may be imegral to each other such ihattheyare represented ss separate features in only a logical sense, In yet other arrangementSj a controller may be absent in device 20 or 79 with sensor 38,82 providing a signal directly to an indtoaiof or remote data gaihefing/analysis site.

In Fig. 4 there is depicted one procedure 200 for using system 19: At stage 210 pibeeimro 500 is started cither by attaching device 20, 70 to a desired location as Indicated in Fig. 2 fir by using a hand-hdddevta as illustrated in Fig. 3. A sample of one or more suhstances which may potentially include one or more targeted forms of' biochemical Substance 144 is obtained at stage 229 lo be analyzed by device 29,70. At stage 230, sensor 38,82 analyzes the sample to determine If i t is a biochemical substance indicative of a bedbug* Sensor 38,82 passes the anaiysis result onto controller 48, 94 which passes an output Signal on to indicator $%. 199, ifpdlcator 52, lOC is checked at stage 240 ίο determine if hjoehemical substance 144 is present. If biochemical substance 144 is present, then the human operator may exterminate at stage 245 using either exterminating System 109 of dsykei7:0 or 40 alteroati^e exterrnlaation method as would be appreciated by one having Skill iftfheart. At stage 250, after indicamfiSl, 100 indicates at stage 240 that biochemical substance 144is not present and/or after extermination at stage 245, the human operator must determine whether to continue procedure 209. If the procedure 209 is eoati mted, like for example at another location within the area being checked, then procedure 2Q9 returns to rcstari, as indicated by arro w 23 5, if procedure 200 is not continued, then it halts at stage 260, Fibcedure 209 may be repeated continually until an entire bedbug population has been r«mqyed:4n'tl/pr detected or until the human operator is satisfied that 4 sufficient period of timo-has iphs^d·without any indication-of bedbug presence. hi an alternative procedure, an attraenmi is used to lure bedbugs to a location submitted to defection with device 20 and/or 70. Such artraetant cm be included in device 20 or 70 and/or utilized exteraally/separately. These atiracf&amp;nis can be included in a bait combined with an insecticide for ingestion by bedbugs. The attractant can include one or more naturally occurring er syntheticbedbug attractingcompounds — which in one form may be structured to mimic one or more feMogiicgi or physical requirements essential for bedbug survival while in Mother form may be known to draw bedbugs Without correlation to survival »* to name just a few examples- Further details regarding the eharaefenshes of the attractant, and or combination of the attractant with a bait and/or insecticide, will be provided herein below in connection with attractant source 346 andteait 362: If used, the anractarst should be selected so as not to: increase the number of Ms© positive indications of bedbug presence with sensor 32,82 beyond an unacceptable thresh old, Such circumstances may in particular arise with aitractnnts ffepi simulate bedbug biochemistry'.

Referring how to big. 5, there is ii lustrated a diagrammatic view of a Second type of system 310 suitable to address a bedbug infestation th room: 15. SysteraSlQ includes at feast one device 320, which* as illustrated, is engaged with electrical waU reeeptacle 19 ofroom 15 and may be sijitdble for one or There Of detect! ng, monitoring and control i mg a bedbug population, 'rheiotainumber of devices: 320 used iesystem 310 may vary in relation to the in fesfetiOn problefe Md/or the time period in which ah effective removal is desired. While wmll feecptMle^10and tfevice 320 are located below bedsystem 4(), il should be appreciated that in one or more forms device 320 may be placed alternatively throughout room 15. For example*inOne;form, device 320 may be engaged with a wall receptacle located alternatively to wall receptacle 19. In Mother form, device 320 may utilize a power cord to facilitate its placement on, for example, bed system 40. It should be further appreciated that, dependent on proper power supply, device 320 may generally be placed at various Soeations in room ! Ss as described above in connection with device 20.

Device 320 is shown in gtMter detail in a diagrammatic partial sectional view in Fig, 6, For this view, g Few representative bedbugs BS are illustrated in and abound device 320. Device 220 generally includes a ffousirsg SEifember 321 including an exterior wall 322 and art outer cover 325 forming infernal chambers 323 and 328a. It should be appreciated that chamber 325 is generally srmemred to pmvlde a bedbug harborage for one or more bedbugs SB which may enter chamber 323 thmugh opening 326. As illustrated, a dividing wall 328 sMarates chamber 323 from chamber 328a, with chamber 328a being structured to provide a channel for όήέ'mp^^dbug be released from rfiamber 328a through opening 326, which is accessible by bedbugs BB, and opening 327, which is not accessible by bedbugs BB. Opening 327 is directed to the external environment of the area in which device 320 is located, as indicated by directional arrow A. Opening 327 is gcrieraily structured to permit the a to actant to be released from chamber 328a but prohibits a bedbug from entering. Chamber 57Sfi so that components of operaiing system 338 arc not disturbed. Dividing was] 328 defines one or friots permeable sections of openings 328b through which attrsetarsts or heat may be dispersed from chamber 328a into chamber 323 and out of openi ng 326, in order to draw bedbugs BB into chamber 323; however, openings 328b are structured ίο prevent the passage of bedb ugs BB from chamber 323 into chamber'328;. Addit ionally:, it sheuldbe understood that chamber 323 may include one or more openings is addition to opening 326 and that ; dphisg |2δ and any additioMi Openings may include one Of more:light blocking devices; to prohibit light from entering chamber 323.

Mousing member 321 isigenerally rigid and has an approximately L~shaped profile. The shorter leg of this pmfils iiistrwotUred as a eaniiloysr 324 including an end wall 32$ through whiel an electrical plug 330 extends. Plug 330 includes frrst proog 331 and second prong 332 with each being structured to engage with a corresponding socket of electrical wall receptacle 19. Plug 330 is typicaliy joined ia receptaek 19 with a friction fit connection that is typically aided by leaf springs biased to press ag&amp;instprongs 331 and 332 within teeeptaci® 19. With this conooetion, termW ends 331a, 332a of each of respective prongs 331,332 can be insertedinto the socket of teceptade 19 ufttii end wali 329 comes into contact v^ith an exteriof portion of receptacle 19. Once fully inserted, top portions 33 3 b. 332b engage with a eOriSSpottdihg surfas© in the socket of wall receptacle 19 toprovide support for device 320. in this arrangement, as the weight of d<?vic<? 320 forces housing nwrnhrr 39! in s downward direction, as indicated by dasetiona! arrow B, top portions 331b, 332b remain in sufficient contact with the corresponding structure of the socket of wall receptacle 19 to prevent device 320 from iridvin| duf of Us Mlustrated vertical position. Accordingly, device 320 is structured for a cantilevered eorMection to the receptacle 19 such that is may be suspended above the floor. As illustrated, device 320 is otherwise freestanding, with no support straciure needed except for the piug33D^ee|xacie 19 ertiagement, It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the longer leg ofthe L-shaped 321 housing may be arranged to articular; :relative: tO; the eaRtrievef connection to receptacle: 19 andfor Reusing: 321 may beidifffemnfiy shaped.

Device 320 further includes an operating system 33$ structured to control a bedbug population. System 13$ includes various components disposed in both chamber 323 and chamber 32$a. In the illustrated form, system 338 includes a controller 340, a fan module 342, a heat source 344, an attractant Source 346, a sensor 34$, and an extermination module 310, Plug 13Ώ may be connected to controller 340 through any standard manner, like for example soldering, riveting, meetmical terminals or the like.to provide an electrical power to systemllg. Typically, power from' art AC (aitematmg current) soufpals converted to DC (direct current} electricity to power ®!®έΙ®Ούίρ devices, and such pOvveriConversion («re.Mitry would be included in device 320 as heeded, hut is not shown to preserved clarity. In still Other entbodsmartls, some or all of the components of system 33$ are passi ve in nainre, not requiring a persistent: sottrebof electrical power.

Controller 340 is comprised of one or more components that may be configured as a single unit, or distributsd among two or more an i ts. S uch components may be of a solid state, electromaghetie, dptical, and/or different variety as would occuno those skilled in the an. like cootrolisr 340 trtay include analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or a hybrid eombinat i oa of both o f these· types. In one form, ibe controller 340is of the programmable variety that executes algorithms and processes data ir·. ncersrikn&amp;e with its operaring logic being defined by programusing instructions (such as software or firmware). Alternatively or addiilbpaily, theepetafing logic for controller 34G is at:least partially defined by hardwired logic dr Other hardware. Controller 340 scads controller output signals along signal pathways 341,:343, and 345 to each of the respective Fan module 342, heat source 344, and attractant MiSce 346.

Fan module 342 may operate as a function of the controller ootpot signal sent via signal pathway 341 aitd may includ e on® or raare of a motor arid a fen Made assembly structured to create air flow, as would be appreciated by one having sdatt in tlve art. It should be understood that fan module 342 may be of any standard form and may include one Or more OompoMnisdn addition to or in lieu of those mentioned. The air flow created by fan module343 generally moves in chamber 328a past heat source 344 and aUraciant source 346, both of which wil 1 be dlseussecl in further detail in' general, -refierieinii?;'^ and through openings 322, 328b and 3:26 to exit device 320. In one form, the air flow may carry one or more of heat from heat source 344 or an anraetam from attract am so urce 346 to the external esivirotanent in which device 320 is placed to attract one or more insects, such as bedbugs, to device 320«. as will also Ire explained in further detail in referenceto.Figs; .6*7 generally.

Furthermore, liis contemplated that the force of the air flow created by fan module 342 may be varied lit liflerent embodiments id Create a stronger or weaker diffusion of heat, and/or attrac tarsi. Jn one form, the force of the air flow may be dependenton the temperature of the heat and/or the attraction potency of the auractam. In another form for example, the force of the air flow may be dependent on the area from which a human operator desires to attract the one or more insects.

Sensor 348 Is located in chamber 323 and is generally stmetured to detect the presence of one or more bedbugs BB in chamber 323- I t should be appreciated that in alternative forms, sensor MS may be placed external to chamber 323 on the exterior of device 320; to detect one or more hedfeugs BB being attracted to device 320, Sensor 348 may include any ops or more ofmotion detectors, heatdetectors, photo-optic detectors, weight detectors, and biochemical detectors, just tonarae afewpuslhilltes. In an embodiment not Illustrated, it is contemplated that sensor 348 may include a closed circuit detection arrangement employing magnetic sensors, to this form, opening 326 may include a biasabic door, which upon being opened in response to ihe weight of a bedbug, niimisgrts the magnetic sepsbrsapdopepsitbp circuit to detect the bedbug’spresenee. In another form, sensor 348 may be structured te detect a bedbug through tarsal or spectral confirmation. Sensor 348 may addifipMliy or alternatively include a biochemical detector to detect one or more biochemical Subsidised tod icative of bedbugs,: as described above. As an alternative or additional sensing meehanism, eleciromagneiicradiation 1 s used to sense bedbugs by returning, blocking, and/op dispersing the todkilop ip a manner that can be detected and identified as being indicative of bedbug presence, as described above with respect to devices 70, 70.

In response to detecting the presence of a bedbug, sensor 348 generates a •<5nwtspond.ipg· senspy signal fhat: Is ppnvcywct aloog signpl pailr 347 lo contrcdSor 340, Controller; 340 may process the sensor signal and then generate an additional controller output release signal which is sent along signal pathway 349 to extermination module 330.

As illPstratod in phantom, extermination module 350 includes an internal reservoir 352 eommumcaimg witb an applicator tip'35^- A cfos|p|;member tills biased to a closed position adjacent the applicator tip 354. The contents of reservoir '}52 inel «dears insecticide 336 toxic to bedbugs. In response to the release signal from signal pathway 349, closing member 358 opens to release isisccPckie 356 in a fluid form, such as an aerosol, gas, liquid, or; powder into chamber 323 to exterminate the one or more bedbugs BB present therein. Closing member 358 may remain open to release the insecticide 356 into chamber 323 until controller 340 stops sending thornleSsa signal along signal pathway 349 to extermination module 350 In another lot», exierminalion module 350 may be directly connected to sensor 348 and operate as a funct ion of sensor 348 detecting one or more bedbugs, in this form, extermination module 350 and sensor 348 may be connected by one or more ofa hard-wired or wireless efeetricii eonneciidn or by a mechanical connection. An insecticide toxic to feedbOgs m^y also be present in chamber 323 ehhc; with or wititunt extunuinaiion modal» 3S0. In one form, insecticide is present in combination with art attracted in the ibrai of bait structured for ingestion, Furthermore, chamber 323 may also: contain one or more additional admetantiscurces'inot shown). It should be appreciated that insecticide 356 may include one «f mptobf theyaffoties disclosed herein below and- will gencrallyhe structured to deliver a lethai ef&amp;dt art a bedbug through cither contact exposure tothe cuticle ofa bedbug, ihsuglaiibh through spiracles and/or ingestion. in an ttoillastraieC 338 may further include an indicator slructuredio notify a human operator of a positive or negative indication of the presence of one or more bedbugs. The indicator may be linked with corarciicr 340 and operate as a furietiori ofa controller output signal which is generated in response to the sensor signal. In one farm, the irsdieatof Meludes one or more visual-markers in the form of slight, alight emitting diode (LED), fluorescent, incandescent, and/or neon, output amongst other possibilities. In each form, the presence of a bedbug may be indicated by, for example, a discrete yes/ηό : indicator, a color change, a flashing sequence, or other change in indicator state. In alternative forms, the indicator provides an output Indicating the presence ©Feme ©r mere bedbugs in the form of a colorimetric strip or an aural/audtosigual· For embodiments with an indicator, such indicator may be structured to provide information in addition to d positive pr begaiive indsemiaO dfbedfeug/prevenee, such as a concentration or quantitative mensumtoehtirOm sensor 348,

It should be understood that device : 320 may not include one or more of the components of by^em 338 as illustrated In Fig 6. For example, Fig. 7 depicts an alternative embodiment as device 360 suitable for one or more of detecting, monitoring and controllings bedbug popuiafion; where like numerals retort© like features previously described. Device 360 includes ariractaih source 346 in chamber 328a without a forrrnoduie or controller. in this form, plug 33013 cennected to attraetant source 346 m shown by electrical circuitry 361 which may include any AC/DC converters or other components desired Id: implement proper operation; Attraetant source 346, discussed in further detail below, may include one or more aitraeianis relesKabife therefrom as electrical power is supplied from plug 330 arid passed therethrough. The attractant is generally structured to aiiurg or attract one or more bedbugs to device 360.

In device 360, chamber 328a is in communication with chamber 42.3 of device 360 to permit passage of sttractant from source 346 to chamber 423 via opening 328ib. ©hamher 423 opens into opening 326 and is arranged to provide a bedbug harborage Sike chamber 323 of device 320; wiihopeoing 328 b bcingsizedand/or shaped to prevent passage ofbedbugs into chamber 328afrom chamber 423. ehamber423 Includes one or more trapping features 423b disposed ob ei®h of angied surfaces 423a,with each of surfaces 423a being structured to prohibit a bedbug BB from leaving chamber 423 at opening 326. In one form, surfaces 423a may comprise one or more of a polished glass or metal or other traction reducing substance(s) designed to prohibit movement of the bedbugs across surfaces 423a. in another form, surfaces 423a may include trapping features 423b in the form of an adhesive material or petroleum jelly, with each beingstructured to limit bedbug movement in still another form, surfaces 433a may be configured with one or more mechanical barriers which prohibit bedbug movement from chamber 423 in the direction of opening 326. Trapping features 423b may alternatively or additionally include a slipping, anti-ffietion agent that prevents sufficient traction for bedbugs to escape feem chamber 423> While happing features 423b are iliastmied on surface 423a, it should be understood that one or more areas of chamber 423 may include one or more forms of trapping features 423b. It should be appreciated that a bedbug flapped in chamber 423 may #ma&amp; therein until eventual extermination, removal by a hurnmi upetaior, or death by staryaiion, Additionally, device 360 may include one or more insecticides dispersed throughout clmrnfeer 423 in addition to or in lieu of trapping features 423b.

As illustr<6ted ire Fig. ?. chamber 423 further comprises bait 362 whieh may inelude on® or mote forms of attractant as provided by attractani source 346 and one or more forms of insecticide 356, Bait 362 may mimic a blood meal source and is gcncrally structurcd to induce one or more bedbugs to enter chamber 423 and eat thereffom. When a bedbug eats bait 362, a toxic amount of insecticide 356 is ingested, resulting in extermination of the bedbug. In another embodiment, insecticide 356 may be provide in a form which Is tokie to a bedbug through exposure rasher than Ingestion, and may be ptacasd on of about bait 362-

This form may be used in addition to or in lieu of insecticide in an ingestiMe form. One tteniimiii^ posing of theinsecticide 356 from one bedbug to the next and/or ttamfer to bedbug eggs so bring about mortality-

Refemg generally to Figs* 5-7, deyices 320, 360 may comprise any number of suitable materials including certain polymers, woods, metals, or any mixtures thereof. Hie Internal surfaces Of chamber 323,423 may compHse a materia the same as, Or difTferenithart, the rest ΰΓ de vices 320, 3€>G. For example, i« one entbodiofeiUi ehaiiiber 323,423 includes a Siti-faee suitable for the assembling of bedbugs an.d/or the depositing of oneormere bedbug eggs thereon. la this embodiment, she surface may be a texturedsurface defined by fabric, paper, or wood- A surface resembl ing any one or more of mattress 44, box springs 45, legs Ala-4 Id, frame 42, headboard 43, wallpaper, carpet, plastcA and bed sheets, just to name a few possibilities, may also be included within chamber 323,423,

In the illustrated embodiments, plug 330 of device 320,360 is generally structured to engage withwall:^ree’eHtacle: 1:9; of-:Γ<?όϊ»^4;S: when wail receptacle 19 provides a 110-120 Volts AC electric power. As would be appreciated by one having: skill in the art, prong 331 is slightly larger than prong 333 to provide one-way keying for engagement with receptacle 19, In an alternative foM in which polarity control is not significant, prongs 331,332 may be the same size. Plug 330 may also include a thud grounding prong in addition to prongs 331, 332 In other embodiments, It is contemplated that in an alternative embodiment device 320,360 may include anadjustable plug 330 and corresponding circuitry that can adapt to other types of power and can include an interna! source, such as a battery that is charged tlirough

J receptacle 19 to provide back-up power when receptacle power fails.

In varying forms, heat source 344 may use power from plug 330 to produce heat in any standard with a coil resistance heater, a metal oxide resistance heater, or a PTC (Positive Temperature Coeffidept> heater, justfe nsine a few possibiiites. In one instance, heat source 344 generates beat in an amount commensurate with the presence of a blood meal source and/or suitable bedbug harborage, In another form, the heat may he in an amount commensurate to release one or more attraetants from attraciant source 3|6gs described below. In one such form, heat sotsrce344 can bestructured to increase the temperature of chamber 323 to a climate most preferred by bedbugs, like for examptej in the range of 70 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, in another example, heat source 344 is Structured to increase the temperature of chamber 323 to mimic the body tcmjicrarure of a blood meal source to inercise attraction of one or morebedbugs. Inohe form, where the blood meal source is a human, the temperature is raised by heat source 344 so around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, it should be understood that fan module 342 may push heat at any temperature out of ehamber328a through hole 327, to attract one or more bedbugs to device 320, in addttbn to or iri lieu of modifying ihe temperature of chamber 323. AUemativeiy er ^ditionaily, heat fnwn soutee 344 ear? he controlled to provide a thermal level sufficient to exterminate bedbugs once present in chamber 323. In this extemuriatmg form, heat source 344 may be used to raise the temperature of chamber 323 to a level when? a sufficient duration of exposure kills a bedbug, in one exterminating form, the temperatures may be raised to somewhere in she .range of 9$ to.l 25 degrees .Fahrenheit It. should be understood that In someembodirnenis,, heat source 344 may provide even higher temperatures, time.-:» swfSeientfbr extermination.

Furthermore, heat source 344 may be coupled with one or morecontrols structured to dictate the time and/or temperature: at vdueh source 344heats.

Attractsnt source 346 generally includes one or more attraetams structured to iftduce one or more bedbugs into entermgehamber 323,423 of devices 320,360. The one or «tore attraciants may fas in a get, gas, aerosol, powder, liquid, or particulate form, Jusldornaiug a few possibihtes. As indicated above, one or more attractants the same as or similar to attraetanf sourse 34i m^ also be used on or near one or more eT devices 20 and 70.

Attractant source 346 may include one or more holdiog and releasing struct«res dependent upon thefSeieefed Mtractahtls^ and the fbrrrt in which the attractantfs} is used. For example, in phe;.;ifei^:attt«ctant source 346:may ihclpdeiaporous matrix dispensing member holding the attractant: m is particulate or powdered form. In this embedimern, the attractant may he released from attraetent source 346 by the air flow produced by fart module 342 and carried out of chamber 328a or passed imo chamber 323- In another form, attractant source 341 may ineludfa U gel matrix Which holds the attractant The attractant may be released from the gel matrix, for example, by exposure to heat from heat sfaurce:344tor eleetfical current provided by plug 330, In another form, attractant source 346 may include a holdingreservoir from which the attractant may he released upon reception of a controller output signal along pathway 34:5. Furthermore, in andther contemplated embodiment, the attractant may be time-released from attraetant source 346 in conjunction wSfh^Jbhaktopb, a time delayed chemical reaction. In one such form, the chemical reaction may be dependent upon a controller output signal sent via signal pathway 345. In either of these forms, the anractam mar emanate from attractant source 346 based upon its own chemtcgland phpical properties or may be displaced from chamber IlSaaiid/or into chamber ·3ΙΙ with life flow created by fan module 342,

Attraciani source 346 liigibdes one or more attractams which may be naturally occurring or synthetic bedbug alluring compounds structured to mimic one or more biological or physical requirements essential for bedbug: survival» In one i&amp;rm, the utiraptant may i nclude any combination of one or more of avian or mammEiHair phcs'omone3, hormones, sweat, epidermic oils, Wood, choline, and other body odors, such as those associated with, for example, halitosis. The bedbug attraction associated withany combination of compositions in attractaot source 346 may he further enhanced by the production, of heat by heat source 344. Furthermore, heat cars bp Used id liberate abradant with er without the aid of a fan. Attractant source 346 may further be placed within a controlled atmosphereor erntt one or more |ases therefmm by evaporation, sublimation, diffusion, or such other mechanism as would ueeur ?o those spiled tn the art.

In one tshlpdin^ht, attractant source 346 pfoukies a controlled level of carbon dioxide (COj) in and/or surrounding devise 320, 360 to attract bedbugs. For instance, die CO2 level can be regulated to simulate the concentration of CO2 exhaled by a blood meal source for a bedbug. Accordingly, this level may mimic that of a mammal, including but not limited to, domesticated animals and pets, bats, rats, or humans. In one preferred form, a CO2 level indicative of a human blood meal source is provided, such as a CO2 level between about 0.01 and 1.0 percent of the atmosphere in or surrounding device 320,360.. in another preferred form, attractant source 346 may distribute between 0.003 to 0.042 mL of CO2 per square meter of surface of either anraaam source 346 or device 320, 360» Device 320, 360 may include an internal reservoir of CCb and one or more release mechanisms to control the distribution rate of the CO2. In alternative embodiments, the humidity levels df the atmosphere in or suirounding device 320, 360 may be altered in addition to or in lieu of a 0¾. level .change.

In anembudiment:^ I46;iaeludes:a sweat simulating compound,

VaRoua levelsipf :sodidihrchisride:pi€Oiand urea ((NH^jCO) may he included. One or mere odprahiS:, such as 2'methyiphenoi or 4-metbylphenol, may be included in attraetaht source 346 with or without the presence of one or moreof sodium chloride or urea. In one form, the epidermis oil may mimic sebum reproduced by the human sebaceous giand and 5¾¾ include a mixture of one or more of wax monoesters, triglycerides, free fatty acids, and squalens. it should he understood that the quantity of each may vary in order to control one

Or moreohemical eharaet®ristiesofthe- -epidermic Pi I, such as tor example, stereochemistry, pH fevpl,isr el ectrofihemlslry, Μ assist in its attracting ftineiton. it Is further contemplated thafattractant source 346 may include additional compounds associated with the human body* including glucose, Jaetie acid, or bile salts such as chohne, just toname a tew example. Furthermore, one or more of sodium tsurocholaie and sodium glycocholatc or a mixture SrereoFmay be added t« the various forms and embodsmMts of attradiaffsis included m attf aetant source 346.

In another form, attraeiant source 346 may include one or more attractarsts associated with bedbugs, By way of bonlimiting example, pheromones may' he included in one or more ibrttts pf an assembling or aggregative pheromone, a sexual phemmttM, mr an aggression Stimulating pheromone. In one example, the pheromoneis similar to οπέ contained in one or mure seem producing glands of a bedbug, in another example, one or more extracts of bedbug excreta or other bedbug secretions may be used, In yet another example, an extract of excreta obtained using a mixture of water and methanol solvent is present as an attraetani.

It should he appreciated that bait 362 may Include any whole or part of a blood meal source, including but net limited to synthetic or natural avian or mammalian blood. While;: illustrated in connection with 'device 360, and described in connection with both of devices 32¾ 360» it should be appreciated that bait 362 may be implemented with either of the other devices 20 and ?6. Far one implementation, the mammalIan blood may be in the Form of human blood and may include one or more of red bipod cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma, the plasma including but not limited to, aibumin.thfombogemc factors, inutiunoglobuMns, horraones, protein;·;, and/or deefrolytes.. It should be understood that the mixture of the above elements may changein alternative embodiments to alter attracting or ingestion qualities; it is contemplated that the bak 362 may be placed in or about chamber 323,423 or on or about the exterior of each of therespeetive devices 320, 360, In one form, the bait may be intermixed with one or more forms ofattractant releasableby attractant source 346 as described above, In another form, bait 362 is mixed with insecticide 56 such that consuming the bait will deliver a lethal dose of insecticide 3S6 to a bedbug, as described above in regard to Fig. 7.

In one unillustratcd form, in which bast 362 is utilized, it may include one or more feature» designed to simulate a human being. Pot example, an external layer mimicking skin may enclose an internai reservoir including: one or more bleed meal forms, which in one embodiment may be human blood. The extemaiiayer may include one or mote of the above listed attractants :and rnay further include additional features, such as pores, ha® fdiiieles, and/or hair shafts. In one particular implementation, the external layer is indicative of the arms and shoMl^ripfajiutnaitblood meal, The Ml 361 may further emit CO; under be placed in environment as previously described, Heat from heating source 344 may further be included to make the temperature of the external layer indicative of the spidsmiis of a human. One or mom forms of insecticide may he mixed with a blood meal aMraetapt pdistmetufed so that as a bedbug pierces the external layer and attempts to feed on the blood meal, is lethal dosage r»f inserticTfte isdellyefOd: to the bedbug... The bah 362 may further include Ope or more features capable of restricting: blood loss from the reservoir from piercings created ,by a bedbug,

It: should: be further understood that the componems of devices 320, 360 can be connected using wired or wireless techniques, For a itrther embodiment, information is relayed by a wired or wireless communication signal pathwayfrom device 320, 360 to a tetnofe sife for further data collection and analysis, This remote site coLild be a computer coupled to deviee 320 and/or 300 by a computer netwonc ίο a designated room of a hotel, nursing homej cruise ship, train, dormitory, barracks, hospital, or the like aud/or could even be remote relative to such structures; like a pest control service provider feMness location or lbs like. In still other arrangements, it should be appreciated dial one or components of system 338 may be integral to each other such that they are represented as separate features in only a Ipglcal sense, li should be appreciated that devices 320 or 360 could be adapted to provide an air freshener or fragrance and/or to provide air purification in addition is insect confrolbperatsons.

Fig. 8 depicts one procedure 560 for using system 310 in flowchart ferns. At stage S10, prueedwe SO0 tegirss, Fallowing stage 510 ss siege 520 so which system 310 is installed, including:for'example engaging device 320,360 or one or more variations thereof wi th wail receptacle 19 of room ig; After Installation, system 310 begins to attract one or more bedbugs in accordance wfihpne or more embodiments disclosed. At stage 540, i nspMidh of system 310 occurs to sec if bcd&amp;ugad* signs indicative of bedbug infestation are present:, It is contemplated that the inspection may be facilitated by one or more: of sensor 34:S or visual i nspeetion by a human operator; A detenrsi nation Ofthe presence of one Or mom bedbugs is made acstage f$&amp;. if is is beseniunad ihai tmearmure bedbugs arc present, the bedbugs may bbAxietminafed at stage;565v In one form, exterminalicrs module 350 extermmates the bedbugs in response to an output sigisal &amp;om CQatroller 340. In another form, where eitermimtion module 350 is absent, the human operator may determine whether to exterminate the bedbugs, If no bedbugs or signs indicative of bedbugs are present and a syflderif period of time has passed to satisfy the human operator that no bedbugs are present, shea the operator may proceed to Step 570 and halt procedure 500. if however signs of bedbugs are present or asufficiem periodoftime has not passed to satisfy the human operator ofa itsek of pscseoec uf bedbugs, piueedure 300 may be started over again as iudieaJwiby aimmMS. Procedure 500 may be continually repeated until an entire bedbug popuiation has been removed safe· die toman operator is satisfied that a suific sent period of time has passed without any indication of bedbug presence, indicating their absence,

As indicated above, it is ecmtemplated that erne or more embodiments may include an insecticide 12% 3S6 effective lor exterminating one or more bedbugs. In one form, insecticide 12% 336 may meiude one or more of 1$ dichioropmpane, 1,3 dicMoropropene, abamectin, acephate, acequinocyL aeetamiprid, acethiors, aceloproSe, aermaihrin, aoryloratriie, alanycarb, aldicarb, aidoxycarh, afdrto aitethrin, #osam|dins allyjcyearb, alpha eypcrmCthrih, a1pha ccdysonCj amidithion, arnidoriurnci,&amp;m$«oc&amp;fh, amiton, aroitraz, toabasipS, arsgnbhS oxide, athidathion, azadirachtio, axamethiphos, azinphosethyigszinphos methyl, azobenzene, azGcydotin,azothoate, barium hexanuorosiSieate. barthrin, tonelorhiaz, bendlocarb, benfuracarb, benomyl, betoxafos, tosulmp, benzoximat% benzyl benzoate, beta eyf] at brio, beta cypermethrin, bifersazate, bifenthrin, hinapacry 1, bioaiiethrm, bioethanomethrin, biopermetlrrisr. btstiiiluron, borax, boric add, bronrfenvinfos, bromo DDT, brpmocyc ten, broroophos, bromaphos ethyl, bromepropylate, bufenearb, buprofezin, tsutacarb, butathiofos, buioearboxiro, butotiate, bmoxycarboxira, cadusafos, caieitsro arsenate, toSciorn polysulfide, eampheehlor, carbanolate, carharyi, carbofuran, carbors disulfide, carbon tetrachloride, earbophenothion, carbosutfan, cartap, chdoiriethioRat, chio ra nfranitipro!ε, ebiorbenside, ehiorbicyelen, chlordane, ehiordecone, chlordimeform, chiorethoxyfos, chlorfenapyr, chlorfenethot, cMorfenson, chlorfensulphtde, ehforfenyinphos, chiorfluaznron, ehiorraephos, ehlorobenzilate, chioroform, ehioromebuform, chloromeihiuroo, chloropierin, ehiompropylate* chbrptosrim, ehiorpmzophos, chtorpyrifos, chiorpyrifos methyl, chlortbiophos, ehromafcnozlde, cinerin 1, emerin Π, cismetbrin, clOcthoearb, clofentezmcj closantei, clothianidin, copper acetoarsemte, copper arsenate, copper naphthsnate, copper ojeate, epum«ph«3, eautnithqsifc, cmtatoiipm «totoxyphos, crueHtai'en At%B,emforoeie, cryolite, pyaneftopho^eyato^ cydethrin, eycipprethrio, cvenopyrafen, eyfiuraetoffen, eyfiuthrin, eyhalotbrin, cyhexatm, cypermethrm, eyphenothrm, cyromazinei cyihioate, d-limonene, daxornes, DBCP, OOP, DDT, decarbofuran, deltarneihrin, demephkm, demephion O, demephion 5, derneten, demeton methyl, demeton 0, demeton 0 methyl, derneton 8, demeton S methyl, demeton S methyl,suiphon, diafenthiuron, dialifos, dlamidalos, diazinon, dicap'hon. dichiofemhson, dichlofinanid, dicldcrvos, dicofol, dlcrcsyl, dierotpphos, dieydaml, dieldrin, dicnochlor, diflovidaxin, diiTubsnzunoh, dilor, dirneiluthrin. dimefos. dimeian, dimetheate, dimefhrm,.dimethyivinphos, dimetiSan, diisex, dinobuton, dinoeap, dinocap 4, dmocap 6, dinocion, dinopenton, dinoprop, dinosam, dinosulfon, dinoiefuran, dinotcrbors, diofenolan, dioxabenzofos, dioxacarb, dioxathion, diphenyl sulfonc, dlsulfiram, disultoon, dithierofos, DNOC, doienapyn, dorarnecttn. eedysierone. emameetm, EMPC, empsn ih.r| nt endosu! fan, endothion, endrin, EFN, epofmonane, epfinaroectm, esfen valerate, etaphes, eihiofenearb, etftsen, ethiprolej ethoafe methyl, etiiopropbos, ethyl DDD, ethyl formate, ethylene dibromide, ethylene diehlande, ethylene oxide, etofenprcx, c-toxazole, euimfos, EXD, ferophur, fenamiphoa, fenazafior, iersazaqum, tenbutaun. oxnle, fenehiorphos, fenethacarb, feniluthrin., feniteoiMon, fenobucarb, ienothioc&amp;rb, Fenbxaerim, fendxycarb, fewpinthrin, fenpippathfin, fenpyroximate, fensoo, fensolfothioH, fesithion, feiuhlou ethyl, femrifanis, fenvalerate, fipronil, ilorsieamid, fluacrvpyrim, fhmuron, fhshendiarnide, flnbenaimine, flueofuron, fiueyaioxuross, flucythrinate, flueReti!, ftufenerim, iinienoxuron, flufenprox, flamethrin, lluorbeaside, fluvalinate, Ibnofos, formetanate, iorrootbion, fonnparsnate, fosmethilan, Fospirate, fosthiaaste, festhietan, fosthietan, fbrathiocarh, farethrin, Furfural, gamma eyhalothrin, gamma HCH, halfenprox, hafofenozide, HCH, HEGD, heptacblor, heptenophos, heterophos, hexaflumuren, bexythiazox, HHDN, hydrameihyioen, hydrogen cyanide, hydroprene, hyqulnearb, imfeyafos, imtdacteprfd» imiprothrin, indoxacarb, iodomethanes fPSP, isamidtifos, isazofos, isobehzan, isoearbophos, tsodria Isofenphos, isoproearfx isoprothiolane, Isothioate, ismathioii, ivermectin jawm! in Ϊ, jasmolm II, jedfenphos, juvenile fertnone I, juvenile hormone II, juvenile hormone HI, kelevan, kinoprene, lambda eyhsicthrin, lead arsenate, lepimectm, leptophos, lindane, hrimfos, lyfeftyrdo, lythidathion, maiathion, malonoben, maxidox, mecarbam, mecaiphon, menazon, mephosfolan, mercurous chloride, mesulfcn. mesulfenfos, mctaflumizone, mstam, melhaerifos, metbamidbphos:, methidathion, methioearb, methocrotophos, methemyi, methoprene, methoxychlcr, mettexyfenQzide, methyl bromide, methyl iscthiocyanate, methylehloroform, methylene chloride, roctoftuthrin, metokarb, metaxadiazone, mevinphos, rnexacarbate. milbemectir:, milbenvycin oxime, mipafox, mi rex, MNAF, monocroiophos, tnorphothion, mosMechn, naftalofos, Ttaled, naphthalene, nicotine, oilluridide, nikkomycins. niisftpyrara, nithia^ijne, niirilacarb, novaluron, novifiumuron, omethaate, oxamyl, oxperrietos methyl, oxydeprofos, oxydisuifoton. paradichloroberizene, parathiosi, parathion ffiStiy!, peniluron, pentaehbrophenol, permethrin, phenkapton, pheaothrin, phenthcaie, phofate, phosalone, phosfolan, phosmet, phosniehlor, phosphamidon, phosphine, phdspocaa’b, phohiipi phoxim methyl, pirimetaphos,pifimicarb, piiirmpbos ethyl, pifnmphQs methyl, potassium aisehhe, potassium thiocyanate, ppf DDT, prallethr®, precscene I, prepocene II, precocene III, priroldophos, prodohol profenofos, profluthrin, ptcmacyi, prOmeeafb^.propaphfiS:, pmpargife, propatamphos, pmpPxHr, proJhidathion^pmthinfrts, prothoate, protrifenhuie, pyraciofos, pyrafluprole, pyrazophos, pyresmethriit, pyrethrin l, pyrethrin. H, pyridaben, pyridalyl, pyrtraiiate, pvdprole, pyri proxy fen, quassia, quinalphos, quinaiphes, qumalphos methyl, quinothion, quantifies, rafoxanide, resmethnn, rotersone, ryania, sabadiSla, sehradaa, selamectm, silaOuofens, sodium arse-nite, sodium fluoride* sodium hexaiuorosilfcate, sodipm^isKiyanate, sophamide,Jpmeferam (XDE-175), spinasad, spirodieioFen^spiromeBifen, spirotetramat, sulcafwon, suifir&amp;m, sulflursmid,sulfbtep, sulfur, sulfuryl fluoride, sitiprofbsj tsu flu val mate, igzsmcafb, TDE, tebufenemde, tefehfenpyrad, tebupmmfos, teflubenatfon, teflythrin, temephos, TEPP, teralleihrin, terbufos, cetrachloroethane, tetrachiorvinphos, teiradifon, tetramethrin, tetranaetin, letraswl, lheiacypemiethrin,:tbiaciopfidit:hiamethoxaiii, iliierofoSj ihiocarbQJtitpe, ihirieycl&amp;m, thiodkaro, thiof&amp;nox, thiometort, thionarin, thioquinox, thi dswl mjjj ih ii ΐ ens^t η, toi 1¾ ttpy D rftieth ri«^ traits fS titEFs r , trasxspe rm etburiri^ tri a^atherl e, triszamafg, triazophos, irichlorfon, trichlormetaphos 3,trichfororsat, triienofos, trifiumuron, trimethaearb, triprerte,. -yairifdoffiibn, yamiddthlrin, vaniliprole, varniiproie, XMC, xylylearb, zefa cypermethnn and zalaprefos.

It sbalso contemplated that various embodistiBrsts of the present application can ala® .be -:used ’with.ifeifpbiei<ie's·».· iiar .of.economy and synergy.

Aiiidiiio'nally' :ciir more embodiments of the application can be used with

anifmicrobials, bacte|eideSi defoliants, safeners, synergists, algaecides, attraciants, desiccants, pheromones, repeilants, animal, dips, avicides, disinfectants, semiochemicals, and tspilpcictdes (these oaiegdrilfs not necessarily mutually exclusive) for reasons of economy and synergy- For mare information consult “Compendium of Pesticide Common Names’4 iocatcCai hHp:^www:.a}anwood.nεεφest^ cidesdndex:.htmi as of the filing date of this application. Also consult ‘‘The Pesticide Manual4* 14ih Edition, edited by C D S Tomlin, copyright 2006 by British Crop Production CottnsiL

Variicsus:;jiS5^i^.dim^ij;3ts ^'the' used with Other compounds to form synergisfic mixtures where the mode of action of the compounds in the mixtures |$ the same, simBar, or differem. Examples of mode of actions inchtde, but are not iimifod to: acetyl eMime esterase Inhibitor; sodium channel modulator; chain biosynthesis inhibitor; GABA-gated chloride channel antagonist; GABA and glutamate-gated chloride channel agonist; acetyl choline tcceptor agonist; MET l inhibitor, Mg*stiroulated ATPasc inhibitor, nicotinic acetylcholine receptoKMidgutmemte^^ disrupter.

Additionally* the following compounds are known as synergists and can be used with one or more embodiments of the pmsem applications piperonvl butoxidc, piprotal propyl isemei sesspex, sesamoStn, and sulfoxide.

Many different embodiments of the present applicati on are envisioned, in one example, g device' is structured to detect one: or mdreibiochemioals ihdlcCtive of one or more insect species in lieu of or in addition to one or more bedbug species. Additionally or altemativelyidnseoiieideSiiUtd:Other extermination tceJmlqucs can be adapted to eliminate attracted insects other than bedbugs. Such alternative insect species can inctodc other pestiferous: ihSeets such as Ike, Rbodmus* and/or mosquitoes,

Itt anofoer example,phb embodiment a device to determine if bedbugs are present in a room, including: analyzing a substance from the room to detect a biochemicalindicative Of bioctoaistry selective la bedbugs in the indoor space; and if the bitfohpmieal: is detected by analyzing of the substance them indicating the bedbugs Ore preseat to 3: human operator. The uperating oi the device may melude one or more of applying ap aerosol, perfomilng awipeassay, and obiainingan airsample.

Another example hsiiudeS an apparatus comprising: asensing surairgement including one or more sensors structured ίο analyze a substance recei ved by the device and generate one or more corresponding sensor signals; a controller operatively coupled to the sensing arrangement, the controller being structured with operating logic to determine ifnitrophorm is inelutted in the substance based on the one or more corresponding sensor signals and generate an output signal representati ve of the presenee of bedbugs in response to a presence of the niirophorin in the substance; and an output device responsive to the output signal to Operate in accordance with the bedbug presence. Xhe appamOis usayluxther include means :ipbexformiii^rid|:'iiit^ets:tbat is responsive to the output signal In one form directed to bedbugs, the exterminating means includes: at feast one insecticide,

An additional embodiment includes selecting a room to evaluate for presence of bedbugs; receiving a substance from the room; deteeiiftg a presence of nitrophorin irs the substance; and in response to the presence ofmirophotin, activating a device indicative of the presence of bedbugs,

Still, another embodiment.¾ directed to a method for determining the presence of bedbugs in a rjwm, 'including; obtaining·*·«ίηηρ1β:·0$$subteance from ihs room; Walyxibg the sample to determine if «itropfeorinds pmsent in the substance- and providing an indication of the presence of bedbugs its response to the determination of the presence of nitrophorin. A further embodiment comprises a plug-in device that includes a housing detltiting m insect harboring chamber, to the chamber to attract insects, and a plug member electrically coupled to the electric-powcred device. The plug is structured to engage a« electric Sdcfeet and defines a cantilever to support the plug-ih device above floor level when engaged in the electric wall socket.

Another embodtmentqf the ptpssni application providing an insect trap with a chamber for insect harborage, attracting insects of one or more species to the chamber by providing one or moreIftdlcatlpps of afeipod meal sourcefor sueh msects at the trap, and at least οπό of detecting the insects ia the trap and providing an insecticide toxic to the insects ift the trap, in one fond the insects include bedbugs.

Yet another e mbodiment comprises a device including a tdtarnher stniciured to harbor insects of One or more species and an insect attractarst disposed relative totfte chamber to attractinsects thereto, The attractant provides pne or more indications corresponding to a feiopd'meal:isppps for the insects. The insect aftractant is disposed relative to the chamber to iattract thejnsedtsMdbechamber to expose the insects to an insecticide toxic to the insects in the chambers lr> one form, the orse or more species of insects targeted by the device include bedbugs.

Still anofoer embodiment comprises a device that includes a chamber structured!» harbor insects and an insect attractant disposed relative to the chamber to attract insects thereto. The msect attfaetam Is indicative of an insect bipod meal sourcb» Spd Includes one or more of: (a) a heat output corresponding io the insect blood meal soufoc, fb) one or more sweat constituents corresponding to the insect blood meal source, and (C) a carbon dioxide Cbrtccbtfodon feortesparidfog to the insect blood meal suwfpC' in one form, the insect dtpetaftt targets bedbugs. A further example includes: providing an insect trap with a chamber for insect harborage, attracting insects to the chamber by providing one or more indications of a blood meal aonrccat die trap, and at feast one of detecting the Insects in the trap and providingan Ji^s^^e^fe'^the'iitsects a the trap. One more specific, north hitting fettn includes eanilieverfog the trap above floor level by engaging a plug member ofthe trap into an electrical cutlet aruifortargeting bedbugs with: the trap. dft Midiber example, a bedbug trap defines a chamber for bedbug harberage, and includes: means for attracting bedbugs to the chamber by providing One or more indicatsoris of a blood meal source at die trap, and at least one of means for detecting the bedbugs In the trap and means for providing an insbeticide toxic to the bedbugs in the trap. One more specific, nonlimiting arrangement additionally includes means For eahtilevertn| the bedbug trap abo ve floor le vel by engaging a plug member of the trap Into an electrical outlet.

Still another example of a further embodiment of the present application: comprises' a device with a chamber structured to harbor bedbugs and a bedbug attractam disposed relative to the chamber to httract bedbugs thereto. The bedbug aitraetant provides one or more indications to bedbugs corresponding to a bedbug blood meal source. The hedbug aitractant is disposed relati ve to the chamber to attract the bedbugs to the chamber to expose the bedbugs;tO an insecticide toxic to the bedbugs is the chamber. in yet another example, adevieedefmes a chamber structured to harbor bedbugs and includes a bedbug attractant disposed relative to the chamber to attract bedbugs thereto. The bedbug attrastimt is indicative of a ^dbug biaod meai source, and includes one or more of: (a) a heat output corresponding to the bedbug blood meal source, (b) one or more sweat constituents corresponding to the bedbug blood meal source, and (c) a carbon dioxide concentration corresponding to the bedbug blood meal source. In one form, tho device further includes an insecticide to exterminate bedbugs in the chamber, A further example comprises a plug-in device that includes a housing defining an insect harboring chamber, an deetric-powered device disposed relative to the chamber to attmei insects, and a plug member electrically coupledto the electric-powered device. The plug is structured to engage an electric socket and defines a cantilever to support the plug-in device above floor level when engaged in theeleetric wail socket. The device may befurther stiuetursd to nap or cxLesmiuate insects in the chamber.

Any theory, meehamsm of operation, proof, or finding stated herein is rne&amp;ni to further enhance understanding of the present invention and is not intended to make the presort invention in any way dependent upon such theory, mechanism of operation, proofed: finding. 1¾ should beunderxtoodthat while the use of the word preferabSe. prcfbrahiy or preferred ip the descriprion above indicates ihaitbe featuretsodeseribed may fee more desirable, h nonetheless may not;he necessary and embodiments lacking the same may he contemplated as within the scope oHhe invention, that scope being defined by the claims that fellow,, la reading fee claims it is intended1 that whet* words .wish as '*%" ”anf “at least one/ “at fsast a portion* are used there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary ip the claim Further, when the language "at least a portion" apd/Or ''a portion" is used the item may include a portion and/or the eniire itent unless spcfficsily stated to the contrary; While fee: invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the selected embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes, modifieations and equivalents that come within thffisphit of the invention as defined hereinor by any of the following eiairns are desired to be protected.

Claims (15)

1. The claims defining the invention are as follows:

   1. An plug-in device, comprising: a housing member including an exterior wall and an outer cover forming an insect harbouring chamber and an attractant chamber, and a dividing wall separating the insect harbouring chamber and the attractant chamber, wherein the insect harbouring chamber has an opening extending through the external wall that allows insects to enter the insect harbouring chamber, and wherein the dividing wall includes a pest-inaccessible opening that connects the attractant chamber to the insect harbouring chamber; an electric-powered device positioned in the attractant chamber to attract insects; and a plug member electrically coupled to the electric-powered device, wherein the plug is structure to engage an electric socket and defines a cantilever to support the plug-in device above floor level when engaged in the electric wall socket, wherein (i) a bait is positioned in the insect harbouring chamber, (ii) the electric-powered device has an attractant that is configured to be released as electrical power is supplied from the plug, and (iii) the pest-inaccessible opening is structured to facilitate passage of the attractant from the attractant chamber to the insect harbouring chamber to attract insects to the insect harbouring chamber.
2. 2. The plug-in device of claim 1, wherein the bait is intermixed with an insecticide.
3. 3. The plug-in device of claim 1, wherein the insect harbouring chamber comprises trapping features to prevent the insect from leaving the insect harbouring chamber.
4. 4. The plug-in device of claim 1, wherein the electric powered device further comprises: an extermination module operable to release an insecticide; and a controller configured to control (i) an attractant source to release the attractant, and (ii) the extermination module to release the insecticide into the chamber; wherein the plug member is electrically coupled to the controller and the pest-inaccessible opening is structured to facilitate passage of the insecticide from the attractant chamber to the insect harbouring chamber.
5. 5. The plug-in device of claim 4, wherein the opening has a biasable door and wherein the plug-in device further comprises a sensor to detect a presence of an insect in response to a detection of an opening of the biasable door.
6. 6. The plug-in device of claim 5, wherein the controller is configured to release the insecticide into the chamber in response to a detection of a presence of an insect.
7. 7. The plug-in device of claim 4, wherein the electric powered device further comprises a heat source.
8. 8. The plug-in device of claim 7, wherein the electric powered device further comprises a fan.
9. 9. The plug-in device of claim 1, wherein the opening has a biasable door and wherein the electric-powered device comprises: a sensor coupled to the biasable door to detect a presence of an insect in response to a detection of an opening of the biasable door; and a controller configured to detect a presence of an insect in the chamber.
10. 10. The plug-in device of claim 9, wherein the biasable door is configured to open in response to the weight of an insect.
11. 11. The plug-in device of claim 9 further comprising an extermination module positioned in the attractant chamber and coupled to the insect harbouring chamber via the pest-inaccessible opening, wherein the extermination module includes an insecticide.
12. 12. The plug-in device of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to control the extermination module to release the insecticide into the insect harbouring chamber in response to the detection of a presence of an insect.
13. 13. The plug-in device of claim 9, wherein the electric-powered device further comprises a heat source.
14. 14. The plug-in device of claim 13, wherein the electric-powered device further comprises a fan.
15. 15. The plug-in device of claim 1, wherein the opening extending through the external wall includes a light blocking device to prohibit light from entering the insect harbouring chamber.