AU2019200863A1 - An External Pest Control System for Rooves and other Structures - Google Patents

Abstract

An external pest control system for gaps in or on rooves and other structures, the system including at least one electrical energising device, a number of brackets extending over the gap to be controlled and at least one elongate, current carrying member extending between the brackets and powered by the at least one electrical energising device to define a charged perimeter over the gap to be controlled. Cl / >~ C & Cl Cl j

Description

AN EXTERNAL PEST CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ROOVES AND OTHER STRUCTURES

2019200863 07 Feb 2019

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates generally to an external pest control system for rooves and other structures and more particularly to an electrified system for boundary protection of rooves, roofing structures and equipment mounted relative to a roof such as solar panels and airconditioning units.

BACKGROUND ART [0002] It is relatively common for rodents and other pests to foul areas on a roof structure where they can. Areas of particular concern are any openings for example such as between roof sheet and a gutter, in downpipes and also underneath roof mounted solar panel installations which are typically spaced a small distance from the roof surface.

[0003] Conventional solutions to this problem seem to be directed at the provision of wire mesh to cover the openings which is tedious to install and which provides very little confidence that its integrity will be maintained over time.

[0004] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0005] The present invention is directed to an external pest control system for rooves and other structures, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0006] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in an external pest control system for gaps in or on rooves and other structures, the system including at least one electrical energising device, a number of brackets extending over the gap to be controlled and at least one elongate, current carrying member extending between the brackets and powered by the at least one electrical energising device to define a charged perimeter over the gap to be controlled.

[0007] The external pest control system of the present invention is particularly adapted for use to cover gaps in or on rooves and other structures although is not limited to this application.

2019200863 07 Feb 2019

The system of the present invention is particularly adapted for keeping rodents such as rats, snakes and the like out of gutters, downpipes and from under roof mounted structures such as photovoltaic cells and air-conditioning installations.

[0008] The charged perimeter need not be a perimeter that extends completely about an installation, although in many applications, it will do so. In certain installations, such as gutters for example, the charged perimeter will be a linear perimeter defined across the top of the gutter for example. The term perimeter is used to denote the fact that the elongate current carrying members effectively restrict or close off access to the gap, denying access to animals and also other debris.

[0009] The system of the present invention includes at least one electrical energising device. The electrical energising device can be of any type but the function of the electrical energising device is to provide charge to at least one, and preferably all of the elongate current carrying members.

[0010] Typically, the at least one electrical energising device will be similar to an electrical energiser provided to power an electric fence. Devices of this nature typically include at least one capacitor to store charge and then to release the charge in a pulse to at least one and preferably all of the elongate current carrying members when they are earthed, generally from contact by an object or animal. Typically, the pulses are released every 1.5 to 2 seconds although this frequency can be varied. It is preferred in the present invention that the frequency of the pulses is adjustable, typically at the at least one electrical energising device.

[0011] The at least one electrical energising device will typically be connected or associated to a power source and any power source can be used. It is particularly preferred in the present invention that the at least one electrical energising device draw at least some of its power from connection to a photovoltaic cell or array. The at least one electrical energising device can be connected to mains power for the building relative to which the system is set up and/or one or more batteries.

[0012] The least one electrical energising device is typically located away from the installation of the brackets and the current carrying members. Normally, the at least one electrical energising device will be installed under the eaves of the building or in the roof cavity for example in order to do be protected from inclement weather and/or damage by animals.

[0013] The system of the present invention needs to be earthed correctly in order to provide the desired electrical shock to the rodents or animals.

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 [0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one electrical energising device will typically be mounted relative to a mounting bracket. This mounting bracket may have any configuration, but will typically be a T-shaped bracket having a substantially planar mounting plate and a preferably perpendicularly extending upright relative to which the at least one energising device is mounted.

[0015] The system of the present invention includes a number of brackets extending over the gap to be controlled. Any type and any number of brackets may be provided depending upon the nature of the installation and the gap to be controlled.

[0016] Typical installations may include one or more brackets. The brackets can have any configuration however, the comer brackets will normally include a substantially triangular member with a number of openings formed therein and which can be mounted in such a way that the current carrying members can undergo a change in direction as they extend through the openings in the corner bracket.

[0017] One or more straight brackets will also be used in many installations, generally for supporting the current carrying members in a spaced apart configuration and maintaining their position against any deflection or movement that may be occasioned by an animal running into the current carrying members. The straight brackets will typically be elongate, preferably planar member with a number of spaced apart openings formed there through such that a current carrying member can extend through each opening in order to maintain the current carrying members in a spaced apart configuration. Straight members can be mounted substantially vertically in order to control the gap which is substantially vertical in natural orientation or alternatively the straight members can be at any angle, even horizontal in order to control the gap in a gutter for example.

[0018] A straight bracket may be used as an end bracket in a gutter installation to allow a current carrying member to reverse direction. For example, a current carrying member will typically extend through a first opening in the bracket, may then be redirected substantially parallel to the bracket and pass through an adjacent opening in the opposite direction to the first opening.

[0019] The present invention may also include a wire separator in order to maintain separation of adjacent elongate current carrying members where the use of the bracket, which is typically fixed to a surface cannot be used or is not desirable. A wire separator will typically have a similar configuration to a straight bracket, but may for example, have open ends in order

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 to releasably receive one or more current carrying members.

[0020] For specialist installations such as downpipes for example, bespoke or custom brackets may be used. For example, for a downpipe installation, to protect an upper end of a downpipe which is not installed through a gutter, a bracket may be provided that attaches to one of the elongate current carrying members and allows the attachment of a separate current carrying member, a portion of which can then extend to touch a portion of the downpipe. The bracket in this installation will typically allow the current from the elongate current carrying member relative to which it is attached to flow to the separate current carrying member which touches the downpipe.

[0021] One or more brackets may be mounted relative to an item to be protected (one example would be an exposed I-beam where the brackets are attached directly to the I-beam in order to control the gap in the sides of the I-beam) and/or may be mounted to a surface or object adjacent to the gap to be controlled.

[0022] The present invention includes at least one elongate current carrying member extending between the brackets and typically, will include a number of elongate current carrying members. Whether one or more than one elongate current carrying member is provided, the at least one elongate current carrying member will preferably be used to define a number of strands which are preferably spaced over the gap to be controlled.

[0023] The at least one elongate current carrying member may take any form but will typically be provided in the form of a wire or tape or similar flexible strand that can also conduct or convey electrical current.

[0024] Plastic twine or tape typically includes strands of plastic (generally coloured polypropylene) intertwined with strands of metal wire, normally stainless steel, which act as conductors. The advantage of these types of fence wire is that they can be easily reeled in for transport or storage, easy to handle, are highly visible, and can be simply joined with a knot.

[0025] Galvanised wire provides extended life, but is generally more difficult to use, being harder to roll and join, and more prone to twisting and tangling than plastic twine.

[0026] As mentioned above, a single elongate current carrying member may be used for multiple strands in a continuous manner or alternatively, multiple strands may be provided.

There are advantages and disadvantages in each of these configurations. Where multiple strands are provided, each strand will need to be energised by the at least one energising device.

2019200863 07 Feb 2019

However, the provision of multiple strands will also offer redundancy that is if one of the multiple strands should fail, the other strands will typically operate independently and therefore, will remain operational. Where a single member is provided in a continuous installation, it may be more difficult to set up this installation initially but there is only one strand to energise. On the other hand, if the strand is damaged for any reason, at any location, typically the entire installation will become non-functional.

[0027] It is important that the strands of the installation remain in a spaced apart configuration, and in a preferred installation, strands will extend substantially parallel to one another and be maintained in a spaced apart configuration either by one or more straight brackets or one or more wire guides along the length of installation.

[0028] As will be appreciated by person skilled in the art, the system of the present invention is configured to define a charged perimeter over the gap to be controlled such that any contact by an animal will lead to the application of electric shock to the animal to provide a disincentive to remain in the area and seek to gain entry to the gap which is controlled.

[0029] It is preferred that all brackets in the installation are at least partially fabricated from metal. Any suitable metal may be used, such as galvanised metal or brass, or aluminium or stainless steel. It is preferred, however, that copper is not used as copper brackets will corrode in an external environment, leading to bad electrical joints and loss of pulse strength.

[0030] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0031] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0032] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[0033] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a system energising mounting bracket according to a

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 preferred embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a cable tray mounting assembly according to a preferred embodiment.

[0035] Figure 3 is an isometric view of an I-beam mounting bracket according to a preferred embodiment.

[0036] Figure 4 is an isometric view of a pipe mounting bracket according to a preferred embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5 is an isometric view of a wall top installation according to a preferred embodiment.

[0038] Figure 6 is an exploded isometric view of the bracket illustrated in Figure 5 and identified using reference letter “A”.

[0039] Figure 7 is an isometric view of the bracket illustrated in Figure 5 and identified using reference letter “B”.

[0040] Figure 8 is an end view of a box gutter installation according to a preferred embodiment.

[0041] Figure 9 is a tope view of the installation shown in Figure 8.

[0042] Figure 10 is an isometric view of a mounting bracket used in the installation shown in Figure 8.

[0043] Figure 11 is a plan view of a solar cell installation according to a preferred embodiment.

[0044] Figure 12 is a side elevation view of a bracket installation according to a preferred embodiment.

[0045] Figure 13 is a side elevation view of an alternative bracket installation according to a preferred embodiment.

[0046] Figure 14 is a side elevation view of a comer bracket according to a preferred embodiment.

[0047] Figure 15 is a side elevation view of an intermediate bracket according to a preferred

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 embodiment.

[0048] Figure 16 is a side elevation view of a short leg bracket according to a preferred embodiment.

[0049] Figure 17 is a side elevation view of a rail guide according to a preferred embodiment.

[0050] Figure 18 is an isometric view of a gutter installation according to a preferred embodiment.

[0051] Figure 19 is an isometric view of a bracket used in the installation illustrated in Figure 18.

[0052] Figure 20 is an end view of the installation shown in Figure 18.

[0053] Figure 21 is an isometric view of a perimeter installation according to a preferred embodiment showing bracket details.

[0054] Figure 22 is an elevation view of a downpipe configuration according to a preferred embodiment.

[0055] Figure 23 is an elevation view of a downpipe installation according to a preferred embodiment.

[0056] Figure 24 is an isometric view of a bracket adapted or use in the system of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 25 is an isometric view of a bracket adapted or use in the system of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 25 is an isometric view of a bracket adapted or use in the system of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS [0059] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, an external pest control system for rooves and other structures is provided.

[0060] The external pest control system illustrated in the Figures includes an electrical energising device (not illustrated), a number of brackets extending over the gap to be controlled

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 and at least one elongate, current carrying member extending between the brackets and powered by the at least one electrical energising device to define a charged perimeter 50 (best illustrated in the PV cell installation shown in Figure 11) over the gap to be controlled.

[0061] The external pest control system of the present invention is particularly adapted for use to cover gaps in or on rooves and other structures although is not limited to this application. The system of the present invention is particularly adapted for keeping rodents such as rats, snakes and the like out of gutters, downpipes and from under roof mounted structures such as photovoltaic cells and air-conditioning installations.

[0062] The charged perimeter need not be a perimeter that extends completely about an installation, although in many applications, it will do so. In certain installations, such as gutters for example, the charged perimeter will be a linear perimeter defined across the top of the gutter such as is illustrated in Figures 8 to 10. The term perimeter is used to denote the fact that the elongate current carrying members effectively restrict or close off access to the gap, denying access to animals and also other debris.

[0063] The system of the present invention includes at least one electrical energising device.

The electrical energising device can be of any type but the function of the electrical energising device is to provide charge to at least one, and preferably all of the elongate current carrying members.

[0064] Typically, the at least one electrical energising device will be similar to an electrical energiser provided to power an electric fence. Devices of this nature typically include at least one capacitor to store charge and then to release the charge in a pulse to at least one and preferably all of the elongate current carrying members when they are earthed, generally from contact by an object or animal. Typically, the pulses are released every 1.5 to 2 seconds although this frequency can be varied. It is preferred in the present invention that the frequency of the pulses is adjustable, typically at the at least one electrical energising device.

[0065] The at least one electrical energising device will typically be connected or associated to a power source and any power source can be used. It is particularly preferred in the present invention that the at least one electrical energising device draw at least some of its power from connection to a photovoltaic cell or array. The at least one electrical energising device can be connected to mains power for the building relative to which the system is set up and/or one or more batteries.

[0066] The least one electrical energising device is typically located away from the

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 installation of the brackets and the current carrying members. Normally, the at least one electrical energising device will be installed under the eaves of the building or in the roof cavity for example in order to do be protected from inclement weather and/or damage by animals.

[0067] The system of the present invention needs to be earthed correctly in order to provide the desired electrical shock to the rodents or animals.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the at least one electrical energising device will typically be mounted relative to a mounting bracket such as that illustrated in Figure 1. This mounting bracket 10 is a T-shaped bracket having a substantially planar mounting plate 11 and a perpendicularly extending upright 12 relative to which the energising device is mounted.

[0069] The system of the present invention includes a number of brackets extending over the gap to be controlled, and a variety of installations are illustrated in the Figures. Any type and any number of brackets may be provided depending upon the nature of the installation and the gap to be controlled.

[0070] Typical installations may include one or more brackets. The brackets can have any configuration however, the comer brackets 13, best illustrated in Figure 6, will normally include a substantially triangular member 17 with a number of openings 18 formed therein and which can be mounted using a mount 19 (such as that illustrated in Figure 6 or in Figures 12 and 13) in such a way that the current carrying members 20 can undergo a change in direction as they extend through the openings in the comer bracket 13. This is best illustrated in Figure 21 in a PV cell perimeter installation to control the gap between a roof surface and the PV cells 21.

[0071] One or more straight brackets 14 such as that illustrated in Figure 7, 15 or 16 will also be used in many installations, generally for supporting the current carrying members 20 in a spaced apart configuration and maintaining their position against any deflection or movement that may be occasioned by an animal running into the current carrying members 20. The straight brackets will typically include an elongate, planar member 22 with a number of spaced apart openings 23 formed there through such that a current carrying member 20 can extend through each opening 23 in order to maintain the current carrying members 20 in a spaced apart configuration. Again any type of mount 24 can be used for the installation.

[0072] Straight members can be mounted substantially vertically as shown in Figure 6 in order to control a gap which is substantially vertical in nature orientation. Alternatively the straight members can be at any angle, even horizontal in order to control the gap in a gutter 25

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 for example as shown in Figure 10.

[0073] The straight bracket 14 shown in Figures 18 to 20 is similar to that illustrated in Figures 8 to 10 but has a shaped end to engage with a different style of gutter 25.

[0074] A straight bracket may be used as an end bracket 16 such as that illustrated in Figure 9 in a gutter installation to allow a current carrying member 20 to reverse direction. As shown in Figure 9, a current carrying member 20 extends through a first opening in the bracket 16, is then be redirected substantially parallel to the bracket 16 and pass through an adjacent opening in the opposite direction to the first opening.

[0075] The present invention may also include a wire guide 15 or separator in order to maintain separation of adjacent elongate current carrying members 20 where the use of a bracket, which is typically fixed to a surface cannot be used or is not desirable. A wire separator 15 will typically have a similar configuration to a straight bracket 14, but may for example, have open ends 26 in order to releasably receive one or more current carrying members 20.

[0076] A specialist installation for downpipes 27 is illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, in which a bespoke or custom bracket 28 is used. For example, for a downpipe installation, to protect an upper end of a downpipe 27 installed through a gutter 25, a bracket 28 is provided that attaches to one of the elongate current carrying members 20 and allows the attachment of a separate current carrying member 29, with live ends 30 can then extend to touch an outside surface of the downpipe 25. The live ends 30 are sealed using heat shrink cover 31. The current carrying member 29 is flexible to adapt to the outer diameter of the downpipe 27. The bracket 28 in this installation will typically allow the current from the elongate current carrying member 20 relative to which it is attached to flow to the separate current carrying member 29 which touches the downpipe 25.

[0077] One or more brackets may be mounted relative to an item to be protected (one example would be an exposed I-beam as shown in Figure 3 where the brackets are attached directly to the I-beam in order to control the gap in the sides of the I-beam) and/or may be mounted to a surface or object adjacent to the gap to be controlled. The system can also be adapted for use relative to pipes as shown in Figure 4 or other beams where the top surface can form a rest for animals such as that illustrated in Figure 2.

[0078] In Figure 24 to 26 there are illustrated brackets adapted for use in the system of the present invention. Figure 24 illustrates an internal solar panel mount anchor bracket 100, while Figure 25 illustrates an external solar panel mount anchor bracket 101. Figure 26 illustrates a

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 solar panel mount intermediate bracket 102.

[0079] Each of brackets 100, 101, 102 is manufactured from aluminium plate and includes a plastic insulator 104 associated therewith.

[0080] The present invention includes at least one elongate current carrying member extending between the brackets and typically, will include a number of elongate current carrying members. Whether one or more than one elongate current carrying member is provided, the at least one elongate current carrying member will preferably be used to define a number of strands which are preferably spaced over the gap to be controlled.

[0081] The at least one elongate current carrying member may take any form but will typically be provided in the form of a wire or tape or similar flexible strand that can also conduct convey electrical current.

[0082] Plastic twine or tape typically includes of several strands of plastic (generally coloured polypropylene) intertwined with a number of strands of fine metal wire, which act as conductors. The advantage of these types of fence wire is that they can be easily reeled in for transport or storage, easy to handle, are highly visible, and can be simply joined with a knot.

[0083] Galvanised wire provides extended life, but is generally more difficult to use, being harder to roll and join, and more prone to twisting and tangling than plastic twine.

[0084] As mentioned above, a single elongate current carrying member may be used for multiple strands in a continuous manner or alternatively, multiple strands may be provided. There are advantages and disadvantages in each of these configurations. Where multiple strands are provided, each brand will need to be energised by the at least one energising device. However, the provision of multiple strands will also offer redundancy that is if one of the multiple strands should fail, the other strands will typically operate independently and therefore, will remain operational. Where a single member is provided in a continuous installation, it may be more difficult to set up this installation initially but there is only one strand to energise. On the other hand, if the strand is damaged for any reason, at any location, typically the entire installation will become non-functional.

[0085] It is important that the strands of the installation remain in a spaced apart configuration, and in a preferred installation, strands will extend substantially parallel to one another and be maintained in a spaced apart configuration either by one or more straight brackets or one or more wire guides along the length of installation.

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 [0086] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word ‘comprising’ and its derivatives including ‘comprises’ and ‘comprise’ include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0087] Reference throughout this specification to ‘one embodiment’ or ‘an embodiment’ means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases ‘in one embodiment’ or ‘in an embodiment’ in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0088] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (15)

1. An external pest control system for gaps in or on rooves and other structures, the system including at least one electrical energising device, a number of brackets extending over the gap to be controlled and at least one elongate, current carrying member extending between the brackets and powered by the at least one electrical energising device to define a charged perimeter over the gap to be controlled.

2. An external pest control system according to claim 1 wherein the at least one electrical energising device includes at least one capacitor adapted to store charge and then to release the charge in a pulse to the at least one elongate current carrying member.

3. An external pest control system according to claim 2 wherein the pulse is released every 1.5 to 2 seconds.

4. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one electrical energising device is connected or associated to a power source.

5. An external pest control system according to claim 4 wherein the power source comprises a photovoltaic cell or array.

6. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one electrical energising device is installed under eaves of a building or in a roof cavity.

7. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one electrical energising device is mounted relative to a mounting bracket, the mounting bracket being a T-shaped bracket having a substantially planar mounting plate and a perpendicularly extending upright relative to which the at least one energising device is mounted.

8. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the system further comprises a wire separator adapted to maintain separation of adjacent elongate current carrying members.

9. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one of the number of brackets extending over the gap to be controlled is a straight bracket adapted to support a plurality of the elongate current carrying members in a

2019200863 07 Feb 2019 spaced apart configuration and maintain their position against deflection or movement.

10. An external pest control system according to claim 9 wherein the at least one straight bracket is an elongate member including a number of spaced apart openings formed such that one of the current carrying members can extend through each of the openings to maintain the current carrying members in the spaced apart configuration.

11. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one current carrying member comprises wire or tape adapted to conduct or convey electrical current.

12. An external pest control system according to claim 11 wherein the wire comprises galvanised wire.

13. An external pest control system according to claim 11 wherein the tape comprises strands of plastic intertwined with strands of metal wire.

14. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein each of the number of brackets is at least partially fabricated from metal.

15. An external pest control system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the system is earthed in order to provide an electrical shock to rodents or animals that come into contact with the system.