US20030182839A1 - Method and device for harvesting earthworms - Google Patents
Method and device for harvesting earthworms Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20030182839A1 US20030182839A1 US10/113,366 US11336602A US2003182839A1 US 20030182839 A1 US20030182839 A1 US 20030182839A1 US 11336602 A US11336602 A US 11336602A US 2003182839 A1 US2003182839 A1 US 2003182839A1
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- Prior art keywords
- mixing chamber
- inlet
- mixing
- outlet
- fluid
- Prior art date
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Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 22
- 241001233061 earthworms Species 0.000 title claims abstract description 16
- 238000003306 harvesting Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 9
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 48
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 46
- 239000002689 soil Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- ZAMOUSCENKQFHK-UHFFFAOYSA-N Chlorine atom Chemical compound [Cl] ZAMOUSCENKQFHK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 16
- 239000000460 chlorine Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 229910052801 chlorine Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 16
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- YRIZYWQGELRKNT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1,3,5-trichloro-1,3,5-triazinane-2,4,6-trione Chemical compound ClN1C(=O)N(Cl)C(=O)N(Cl)C1=O YRIZYWQGELRKNT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- ZKQDCIXGCQPQNV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Calcium hypochlorite Chemical compound [Ca+2].Cl[O-].Cl[O-] ZKQDCIXGCQPQNV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 229940060367 inert ingredients Drugs 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000012216 screening Methods 0.000 claims 6
- 239000004480 active ingredient Substances 0.000 claims 4
- UNWRHVZXVVTASG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 1,3-dichloro-1,3,5-triazinane-2,4,6-trione;sodium Chemical compound [Na].ClN1C(=O)NC(=O)N(Cl)C1=O UNWRHVZXVVTASG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims 2
- 239000004615 ingredient Substances 0.000 claims 2
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 239000008188 pellet Substances 0.000 description 22
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 10
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 6
- 241000243662 Lumbricus terrestris Species 0.000 description 3
- 239000007864 aqueous solution Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 3
- CDBYLPFSWZWCQE-UHFFFAOYSA-L Sodium Carbonate Chemical compound [Na+].[Na+].[O-]C([O-])=O CDBYLPFSWZWCQE-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 2
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 2
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 description 2
- 238000009736 wetting Methods 0.000 description 2
- 241000361919 Metaphire sieboldi Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000013270 controlled release Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003628 erosive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910000029 sodium carbonate Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01M—CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
- A01M7/00—Special adaptations or arrangements of liquid-spraying apparatus for purposes covered by this subclass
- A01M7/0089—Regulating or controlling systems
- A01M7/0092—Adding active material
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K67/00—Rearing or breeding animals, not otherwise provided for; New or modified breeds of animals
- A01K67/033—Rearing or breeding invertebrates; New breeds of invertebrates
- A01K67/0332—Earthworms
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01M—CATCHING, TRAPPING OR SCARING OF ANIMALS; APPARATUS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF NOXIOUS ANIMALS OR NOXIOUS PLANTS
- A01M31/00—Hunting appliances
- A01M31/008—Lure dispensing devices
Definitions
- This invention relates to a method and device for encouraging earthworms, particularly night crawlers, to emerge from their burrows for harvest.
- the present invention allows the user to quickly and accurately locate and capture worms, particularly night crawlers, at any time of the day or night, in various weather conditions, at any location having ground soil containing earthworms.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,570,372 discloses a worm harvesting method, which comprises wetting ground soil with an aqueous solution containing free chlorine.
- the method includes forming the solution in a pail and continually flowing water into the pail so that the solution overflows the confines of the pail and pours on the ground surrounding the pail. While this method may yield some positive result, the rate of water flowing out of the pail is difficult to control. Further, the user is limited to application of the solution to the area immediately surrounding the pail.
- the present method and apparatus for harvesting earthworms includes an easily used fluid mixer.
- the method includes controllably wetting ground soil containing earthworms with an aqueous solution containing at least 10 parts per million of free chlorine.
- the solution is mixed in the mixing chamber of the novel fluid mixer and sprayed out the discharge end.
- the apparatus comprises a spraying device having an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber.
- the present invention provides an improved method for causing earthworms to come out of the ground so that they may be readily harvested, and also provides a device for use in mixing a fluid composition functional when applied to ground soil containing earthworms to cause the earthworms in the ground soil to emerge for harvesting.
- the method of the present invention generally comprises the steps of: 1. Providing a predetermined amount of a worm lure composition. 2. Providing a spraying device, having an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber located intermediate said inlet and said outlet; the mixing chamber arranged to receive the predetermined amount of worm lure composition. 3. Providing a source of pressurized mixing fluid coupled to the inlet. 4. Providing a fluid passageway communicating with the inlet and mixing chamber. 5. Mixing the mixing fluid and the predetermined amount of worm lure composition in the mixing chamber to provide a worm lure mixture having at least 10 parts per million chlorine. 6. Providing a second fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway communicating with the outlet and the mixing chamber. 7. Spraying the worm lure mixture from the outlet onto ground soil containing worms thereby causing worms to emerge from the ground soil. 8. Collecting the worms.
- the worm lure mixture used in the present invention is generally comprised of an aqueous solution having at least 10 parts per million chlorine, as mixed in the mixing chamber of the novel fluid mixer.
- the fluid mixer includes an inlet and an outlet.
- the inlet is adapted to be attached to a conventional water supply hose, such as a garden hose.
- the inlet and outlet each include a passageway bore having a predetermined diameter.
- the inlet bore communicates with a pellet or mixing chamber which is adapted to receive worm lure composition, such as a pellet or tablet containing a predetermined amount of available chlorine.
- the bore of said first passageway transversely intersects the bore of the mixing chamber at a point intermediate the ends of the mixing chamber bore, and further, one end of the mixing chamber bore transversely intersects the inner end of the second passageway bore.
- the pellet or mixing chamber includes a first aperture communicating with the inlet bore and a second aperture communicating with an outlet bore.
- the outlet bore includes a distal discharge outlet. It is preferred that the inlet bore be of a larger diameter than the outlet bore to thereby provide increased resistance for the fluid flow through the device.
- the pellet or mixing chamber is further provided with a pellet insert opening including a threaded cap.
- the pellet or mixing chamber may also include a tubular insert spacer to assist in retaining an inserted pellet in place.
- the chamber spacer may be provided with at least one aperture to allow water flowing through the inlet bore to enter the chamber, flush over the pellet to dissolve the pellet, and exit as a worm lure solution through the discharge bore.
- the solution exits the discharge bore and is sprayed on ground soil at a worm-collecting site. As the solution is applied to the ground soil or turf, it comes in contact with worms. The solution encourages the worms to come to the surface of the soil for easy capture and collection. It is noted that this method may be practiced with good results during the day or night, and in any temperate weather condition. Further, worms harvested by this method are not harmed by the worm lure mixture and may be stored in any conventional manner after being rinsed in water.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 and taken along lines 3 - 3 thereof.
- FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 and taken along lines 4 - 4 thereof.
- FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of the device illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3.
- FIG. 6 is a partially exploded view of the device illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4.
- FIG. 7 illustrates the device of FIGS. 2, 4, and 6 as used for causing earthworms to emerge from ground soil.
- the method of the present invention generally comprises the steps of: 1. Providing a predetermined amount of a worm lure composition. 2. Providing a spraying device, having an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber located intermediate said inlet and said outlet; the mixing chamber arranged to receive the predetermined amount of worm lure composition. 3. Providing a source of pressurized mixing fluid coupled to the inlet. 4. Providing a fluid passageway communicating with the inlet and mixing chamber. 5. Mixing the mixing fluid and the predetermined amount of worm lure composition in the mixing chamber to provide a worm lure mixture. 6. Providing a second fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway communicating with the outlet and the mixing chamber. 7. Spraying the worm lure mixture from the outlet onto ground soil containing worms thereby causing worms to emerge from the ground soil. 8. Collecting the worms.
- the spraying device of this invention is illustrated and described herein in connection with two embodiments and is indicated generally by the reference numeral 10 .
- the first embodiment is best described in connection with the views of FIGS. 1, 3, and 5 wherein the spraying device 10 may be injection molded as an integrally formed device comprising a mixing, or pellet chamber 12 including a tubular bore 14 (seen in FIG. 3).
- the pellet chamber 12 is open at its upper end 15 and externally threaded to receive a removable closure cap 16 for insertion of a frusto-conical particulate screen member 18 seated on the inner, shouldered end 20 of the bore 14 .
- the screen member 18 is held in place by a tubular insert 22 forced towards the member 18 by the threaded closure cap 16 .
- the insert is 22 preferably positioned after placement of a desired number of pellets 24 (shown in phantom) containing worm lure composition in the chamber 12 .
- Suitable worm lure compositions are preferably in pellet or tablet form having a predetermined density and further providing a predetermined amount of available chlorine.
- the preferred density being that which allows adequate erosion of the tablet in the chamber 12 over a period of 40-50 minutes at a water flow rate of about two gallons minute, to provide an exiting worm lure mixture having at least 10 parts per million available chlorine.
- Some examples of preferred worm lure compositions are as follows: One-fourth ounce tablets, or pellets, each containing 68% available chlorine in the form of Calcium Hypochlorite and 32% inert ingredients, dry weight. Pellets of this type may be obtained from Arch Chemical Inc. of Norwalk, Conn.
- worm lure mixture may be formed using the above-mentioned pellets, it is to be understood that a suitable worm lure mixture may be obtained using other solid or granular worm lure compositions which provide a controlled release of free chlorine.
- the mixing chamber portion 12 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 is preferably integrally formed with laterally extending inlet and outlet arm portions or fluid passageways 26 and 28 .
- the arm portions 26 , 28 each respectively contain tubular bores 30 and 32 .
- the bore 30 of arm 26 transversely intersects the bore 14 of the mixing chamber 12 at a point intermediate the ends of the mixing chamber bore 14 .
- one end of the mixing chamber bore 14 transversely intersects the inner end of the second arm bore 32 .
- the inlet bore 30 have a larger diameter than the outlet bore 32 , to thereby provide increased resistance for the fluid flow through the spraying device 10 .
- This flow resistance acts to provide turbulence which assists in thorough mixing of the lure composition 24 with fluid flowing through the device 10 , thereby permitting maximum efficiency and increased spreading of the resultant worm lure mixture on ground soil, and maximum collection of earthworms.
- the aforementioned turbulence acts to rapidly agitate the worm lure composition pellet(s) 24 in the mixing chamber 12 , and erode them for desired suspension and mixing with the fluid flowing through the spraying device 10 .
- the device 10 provides fluid passage through the inlet bore 30 , the mixing chamber bore 14 , and outwardly of the outlet bore 32 to a suitable nozzle 46 threadingly engaging the outlet arm 28 . (Seen in FIGS. 1 and 5).
- the inlet end 27 of inlet arm 26 is preferably threaded to receive a conventional inlet coupling 34
- the outlet end 29 of outlet arm 28 is preferably threaded to receive an outlet coupling 36
- a control valve 38 is provided at the inlet end 27 to control incoming mixing fluid flow rate.
- the inlet coupling 34 is preferably adapted to be attached to a conventional water supply hose, such as a garden hose 39 , as seen in FIG. 7.
- a conventional water supply hose such as a garden hose 39
- the inlet and outlet ends 27 , 29 each be provided with respective screen inserts 40 to prevent large particles from entering or exiting the device 10 .
- FIGS. 2, 4 and 6 another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the views of FIGS. 2, 4 and 6 .
- This embodiment includes a modified mixing chamber 12 a, wherein it will be noted that the length of the mixing chamber 12 a has been extended relative to the length of the mixing chamber 12 seen in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 .
- This alternative configuration permits insertion of a tubular insert 42 having increased length, thereby allowing a plurality of openings 44 a, 44 b and 44 c to be formed therein.
- the openings 44 a, 44 b, 44 c permit more thorough agitation of the pellet(s) 24 and aid in mixing of the pellet composition with fluid flowing through the device 10 a.
- the alternative embodiment spraying device 10 a seen in FIGS. 2, 4, and 6 may be injection molded as an integrally formed device.
- the alternative embodiment device 10 a further comprises a modified mixing, or pellet chamber 12 a including an extended tubular bore 14 a, as seen in FIGS. 4 and 6.
- the pellet chamber 12 a is open at its upper end 15 and externally threaded to receive a removable closure cap 16 for insertion of a frusto-conical particulate screen member 18 seated on the inner, shouldered end 20 of the bore 14 .
- the screen member 18 is held in place by a tubular insert 42 having increased length, which is forced towards the member 18 by the threaded closure cap 16 .
- the insert 42 is preferably positioned after placement of a desired number of pellets 24 (shown in phantom) containing worm lure composition in the chamber 12 .
- the tubular insert 42 is held in place between the inner surface 17 of the removable cap 16 and the rim 19 of the particulate screen 18 .
- the screen 18 in turn rests upon the shoulder 20 .
- the modified mixing chamber portion 12 a of the embodiment of FIGS. 2, 4, and 6 is preferably integrally formed with laterally extending inlet and outlet arm portions 26 and 28 .
- the arm portions 26 , 28 each respectively contain tubular bores 30 and 32 .
- the inlet bore 30 have a larger diameter than the outlet bore 32 , to thereby provide increased resistance and turbulence for the fluid flow through the spraying device 10 a.
- the device 10 a provides fluid passage through the inlet bore 30 , the mixing chamber bore 14 a, and outwardly of the outlet bore 32 to a suitable nozzle 46 threadingly engaging the outlet arm 28 . (Seen in FIGS. 2 and 6).
- the inlet end 27 of inlet arm 26 is preferably threaded to receive a conventional inlet coupling 34
- the outlet end 29 of outlet arm 28 is preferably threaded to receive an outlet coupling 36
- a control valve 38 is provided at the inlet end 27 to control incoming mixing fluid flow rate.
- the inlet coupling 34 is preferably adapted to be attached to a conventional water supply hose, such as a garden hose 39 , as seen in FIG. 7.
- a conventional water supply hose such as a garden hose 39
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- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Environmental Sciences (AREA)
- Zoology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Insects & Arthropods (AREA)
- Pest Control & Pesticides (AREA)
- Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- Animal Husbandry (AREA)
- Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
- Catching Or Destruction (AREA)
Abstract
A method and device for causing earthworms to emerge from ground soil for harvesting, including providing a spraying device, having an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber located intermediate the inlet and the outlet, wherein the mixing chamber is arranged to receive a worm lure composition for mixing with a mixing fluid coupled to the inlet to thereby provide a worm lure mixture, spraying the mixture from the outlet onto ground soil containing worms thereby causing worms to emerge from the ground soil, and collecting the worms. The device includes an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber for mixing a worm lure composition with mixing fluid.
Description
- This invention relates to a method and device for encouraging earthworms, particularly night crawlers, to emerge from their burrows for harvest.
- Presently, fishermen and others requiring night crawlers, use lights to find worms as they emerge at night. This method is time consuming and yields uneven results. The present invention allows the user to quickly and accurately locate and capture worms, particularly night crawlers, at any time of the day or night, in various weather conditions, at any location having ground soil containing earthworms.
- It is presently known to use chemical compounds or electrical current to cause earthworms to emerge from their burrows. U.S. Pat. No. 4,570,372, for example, discloses a worm harvesting method, which comprises wetting ground soil with an aqueous solution containing free chlorine. The method includes forming the solution in a pail and continually flowing water into the pail so that the solution overflows the confines of the pail and pours on the ground surrounding the pail. While this method may yield some positive result, the rate of water flowing out of the pail is difficult to control. Further, the user is limited to application of the solution to the area immediately surrounding the pail. Since not all ground soil contains earthworms, if the area surrounding the pail is found not to contain earthworms, the user must transfer the pail and solution therein to other sites in succession until an earthworm-containing site is located. This is inconvenient and time-consuming for the user.
- The present method and apparatus for harvesting earthworms includes an easily used fluid mixer. The method includes controllably wetting ground soil containing earthworms with an aqueous solution containing at least 10 parts per million of free chlorine. The solution is mixed in the mixing chamber of the novel fluid mixer and sprayed out the discharge end. The method allows the user to readily move from one harvest area to another and provides a solution that minimizes damage to the flora and fauna in the harvesting area. The apparatus comprises a spraying device having an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber.
- The present invention provides an improved method for causing earthworms to come out of the ground so that they may be readily harvested, and also provides a device for use in mixing a fluid composition functional when applied to ground soil containing earthworms to cause the earthworms in the ground soil to emerge for harvesting.
- The method of the present invention generally comprises the steps of: 1. Providing a predetermined amount of a worm lure composition. 2. Providing a spraying device, having an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber located intermediate said inlet and said outlet; the mixing chamber arranged to receive the predetermined amount of worm lure composition. 3. Providing a source of pressurized mixing fluid coupled to the inlet. 4. Providing a fluid passageway communicating with the inlet and mixing chamber. 5. Mixing the mixing fluid and the predetermined amount of worm lure composition in the mixing chamber to provide a worm lure mixture having at least 10 parts per million chlorine. 6. Providing a second fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway communicating with the outlet and the mixing chamber. 7. Spraying the worm lure mixture from the outlet onto ground soil containing worms thereby causing worms to emerge from the ground soil. 8. Collecting the worms.
- The worm lure mixture used in the present invention is generally comprised of an aqueous solution having at least 10 parts per million chlorine, as mixed in the mixing chamber of the novel fluid mixer. The fluid mixer includes an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is adapted to be attached to a conventional water supply hose, such as a garden hose. The inlet and outlet each include a passageway bore having a predetermined diameter. The inlet bore communicates with a pellet or mixing chamber which is adapted to receive worm lure composition, such as a pellet or tablet containing a predetermined amount of available chlorine. The bore of said first passageway transversely intersects the bore of the mixing chamber at a point intermediate the ends of the mixing chamber bore, and further, one end of the mixing chamber bore transversely intersects the inner end of the second passageway bore. The pellet or mixing chamber includes a first aperture communicating with the inlet bore and a second aperture communicating with an outlet bore. The outlet bore includes a distal discharge outlet. It is preferred that the inlet bore be of a larger diameter than the outlet bore to thereby provide increased resistance for the fluid flow through the device.
- The pellet or mixing chamber is further provided with a pellet insert opening including a threaded cap. The pellet or mixing chamber may also include a tubular insert spacer to assist in retaining an inserted pellet in place. In one embodiment, the chamber spacer may be provided with at least one aperture to allow water flowing through the inlet bore to enter the chamber, flush over the pellet to dissolve the pellet, and exit as a worm lure solution through the discharge bore. The solution exits the discharge bore and is sprayed on ground soil at a worm-collecting site. As the solution is applied to the ground soil or turf, it comes in contact with worms. The solution encourages the worms to come to the surface of the soil for easy capture and collection. It is noted that this method may be practiced with good results during the day or night, and in any temperate weather condition. Further, worms harvested by this method are not harmed by the worm lure mixture and may be stored in any conventional manner after being rinsed in water.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 and taken along lines3-3 thereof.
- FIG. 4 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 and taken along lines4-4 thereof.
- FIG. 5 is a partially exploded view of the device illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3.
- FIG. 6 is a partially exploded view of the device illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 4.
- FIG. 7 illustrates the device of FIGS. 2, 4, and6 as used for causing earthworms to emerge from ground soil.
- Although the disclosure hereof is detailed and exact to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, the physical embodiments herein disclosed merely exemplify the invention which may be embodied in other specific structure. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention, which is defined by the claims.
- The method of the present invention generally comprises the steps of: 1. Providing a predetermined amount of a worm lure composition. 2. Providing a spraying device, having an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber located intermediate said inlet and said outlet; the mixing chamber arranged to receive the predetermined amount of worm lure composition. 3. Providing a source of pressurized mixing fluid coupled to the inlet. 4. Providing a fluid passageway communicating with the inlet and mixing chamber. 5. Mixing the mixing fluid and the predetermined amount of worm lure composition in the mixing chamber to provide a worm lure mixture. 6. Providing a second fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway communicating with the outlet and the mixing chamber. 7. Spraying the worm lure mixture from the outlet onto ground soil containing worms thereby causing worms to emerge from the ground soil. 8. Collecting the worms.
- The spraying device of this invention is illustrated and described herein in connection with two embodiments and is indicated generally by the
reference numeral 10. The first embodiment is best described in connection with the views of FIGS. 1, 3, and 5 wherein thespraying device 10 may be injection molded as an integrally formed device comprising a mixing, orpellet chamber 12 including a tubular bore 14 (seen in FIG. 3). Thepellet chamber 12 is open at itsupper end 15 and externally threaded to receive aremovable closure cap 16 for insertion of a frusto-conicalparticulate screen member 18 seated on the inner, shouldered end 20 of thebore 14. Thescreen member 18 is held in place by atubular insert 22 forced towards themember 18 by the threadedclosure cap 16. The insert is 22 preferably positioned after placement of a desired number of pellets 24 (shown in phantom) containing worm lure composition in thechamber 12. - Suitable worm lure compositions are preferably in pellet or tablet form having a predetermined density and further providing a predetermined amount of available chlorine. The preferred density being that which allows adequate erosion of the tablet in the
chamber 12 over a period of 40-50 minutes at a water flow rate of about two gallons minute, to provide an exiting worm lure mixture having at least 10 parts per million available chlorine. Some examples of preferred worm lure compositions are as follows: One-fourth ounce tablets, or pellets, each containing 68% available chlorine in the form of Calcium Hypochlorite and 32% inert ingredients, dry weight. Pellets of this type may be obtained from Arch Chemical Inc. of Norwalk, Conn. Another suitable example was found to be tablets containing 56% available chlorine in the form of Trichloro-S-triazinetrione, wherein the tablet contains 67% Trichloro-S-triazinetrione and 33% Sodium carbonate by weight. While the worm lure mixture may be formed using the above-mentioned pellets, it is to be understood that a suitable worm lure mixture may be obtained using other solid or granular worm lure compositions which provide a controlled release of free chlorine. - The mixing
chamber portion 12 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 is preferably integrally formed with laterally extending inlet and outlet arm portions orfluid passageways arm portions bore 30 ofarm 26 transversely intersects thebore 14 of the mixingchamber 12 at a point intermediate the ends of the mixing chamber bore 14. Further, one end of the mixing chamber bore 14 transversely intersects the inner end of the second arm bore 32. It is preferred that the inlet bore 30 have a larger diameter than the outlet bore 32, to thereby provide increased resistance for the fluid flow through the sprayingdevice 10. This flow resistance acts to provide turbulence which assists in thorough mixing of thelure composition 24 with fluid flowing through thedevice 10, thereby permitting maximum efficiency and increased spreading of the resultant worm lure mixture on ground soil, and maximum collection of earthworms. The aforementioned turbulence acts to rapidly agitate the worm lure composition pellet(s) 24 in the mixingchamber 12, and erode them for desired suspension and mixing with the fluid flowing through the sprayingdevice 10. It will be apparent that thedevice 10 provides fluid passage through the inlet bore 30, the mixing chamber bore 14, and outwardly of the outlet bore 32 to asuitable nozzle 46 threadingly engaging theoutlet arm 28. (Seen in FIGS. 1 and 5). - As seen particularly in FIG. 5, it will be noted that the
inlet end 27 ofinlet arm 26 is preferably threaded to receive aconventional inlet coupling 34, and the outlet end 29 ofoutlet arm 28 is preferably threaded to receive anoutlet coupling 36. Acontrol valve 38 is provided at theinlet end 27 to control incoming mixing fluid flow rate. Theinlet coupling 34 is preferably adapted to be attached to a conventional water supply hose, such as a garden hose 39, as seen in FIG. 7. Further, and as seen in FIG. 5, it is preferable that the inlet and outlet ends 27, 29 each be provided with respective screen inserts 40 to prevent large particles from entering or exiting thedevice 10. - As previously mentioned, another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the views of FIGS. 2, 4 and6. This embodiment includes a modified
mixing chamber 12 a, wherein it will be noted that the length of the mixingchamber 12 a has been extended relative to the length of the mixingchamber 12 seen in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5. This alternative configuration permits insertion of atubular insert 42 having increased length, thereby allowing a plurality ofopenings openings device 10 a. - Similarly to the first embodiment described, the alternative
embodiment spraying device 10 a seen in FIGS. 2, 4, and 6, may be injection molded as an integrally formed device. Thealternative embodiment device 10 a further comprises a modified mixing, orpellet chamber 12 a including an extended tubular bore 14 a, as seen in FIGS. 4 and 6. Thepellet chamber 12 a is open at itsupper end 15 and externally threaded to receive aremovable closure cap 16 for insertion of a frusto-conicalparticulate screen member 18 seated on the inner, shouldered end 20 of thebore 14. Thescreen member 18 is held in place by atubular insert 42 having increased length, which is forced towards themember 18 by the threadedclosure cap 16. Theinsert 42 is preferably positioned after placement of a desired number of pellets 24 (shown in phantom) containing worm lure composition in thechamber 12. Thetubular insert 42 is held in place between the inner surface 17 of theremovable cap 16 and therim 19 of theparticulate screen 18. Thescreen 18 in turn rests upon theshoulder 20. - As in the previous embodiment, the modified
mixing chamber portion 12 a of the embodiment of FIGS. 2, 4, and 6 is preferably integrally formed with laterally extending inlet andoutlet arm portions arm portions device 10 a. It will be apparent that thedevice 10 a provides fluid passage through the inlet bore 30, the mixing chamber bore 14 a, and outwardly of the outlet bore 32 to asuitable nozzle 46 threadingly engaging theoutlet arm 28. (Seen in FIGS. 2 and 6). - As noted with reference to the previous embodiment, and as seen particularly in FIG. 6, the
inlet end 27 ofinlet arm 26 is preferably threaded to receive aconventional inlet coupling 34, and the outlet end 29 ofoutlet arm 28 is preferably threaded to receive anoutlet coupling 36. Acontrol valve 38 is provided at theinlet end 27 to control incoming mixing fluid flow rate. Theinlet coupling 34 is preferably adapted to be attached to a conventional water supply hose, such as a garden hose 39, as seen in FIG. 7. Further, and as seen in FIG. 6, it is preferable that the inlet and outlet ends 27, 29 each be provided with respective screen inserts 40 to prevent large particles from entering or exiting thedevice 10 a. - The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention, which is defined by the claims.
Claims (20)
1. A method of harvesting worms from ground soil containing worms, comprising the steps of:
providing a predetermined amount of a worm lure composition;
providing a spraying device, said spraying device including an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber located intermediate said inlet and said outlet; said mixing chamber arranged to receive said predetermined amount of worm lure composition;
providing a source of pressurized mixing fluid, said source of pressurized mixing fluid being coupled to said inlet;
providing a fluid passageway communicating with said inlet and said mixing chamber;
mixing said mixing fluid and said predetermined amount of worm lure composition in said mixing chamber to provide a worm lure mixture;
providing a second fluid passageway, said second fluid passageway communicating with said outlet and with said mixing chamber;
spraying said worm lure mixture from said outlet on said ground soil containing worms; causing said worms to emerge from said ground soil; and
collecting said worms.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein said predetermined amount of worm lure composition provides at least 65% by weight of calcium hypochlorite and 35% by weight of inert ingredients capable of producing 68% available chlorine.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein said available chlorine is derived from a mixture of an inert ingredient and an active ingredient, and wherein the active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of Calcium hypochlorite, Trichloro-S-triazinetrione, and Sodium dichlor-s-triazinetrione anhydrous.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein said inlet and said outlet are each provided with respective particle screening means.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein said pressurized mixing fluid consists of water.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein said mixing chamber is provided with particle screening means.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein said worm lure mixture provides at least 10 parts per million of chlorine.
8. A spraying device for applying a worm lure mixture to ground soil containing earthworms, said spraying device comprising:
an inlet, an outlet, and a mixing chamber located intermediate said inlet and said outlet; said mixing chamber arranged to receive a predetermined amount of a worm lure composition;
said inlet being adapted to be coupled to a source of pressurized mixing fluid;
a first fluid passageway arranged for communication with said inlet and said mixing chamber;
said mixing chamber being adapted for mixing said mixing fluid and said predetermined amount of worm lure composition thereby providing a predetermined amount of a worm lure mixture;
a second fluid passageway, said second fluid passageway communicating with said outlet and said mixing chamber;
said outlet being adapted to spray said worm lure mixture on said ground soil containing earthworms.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said worm lure composition provides at least 68% available chlorine.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein said available chlorine is derived from a mixture of an inert ingredient and an active ingredient, and wherein the active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of Calcium hypochlorite, Trichloro-S-triazinetrione, and Sodium dichlor-s-triazinetrione anhydrous.
11. The spraying device of claim 8 , wherein said first fluid passageway and said second fluid passageway each comprise tubular bores and the diameter of the first fluid passageway bore is larger than the diameter of the second fluid passageway bore.
12. The spraying device of claim 8 , wherein each of said first and second passageways and said mixing chambers each include particle screening means.
13. The spraying device of claim 8 , wherein said mixing chamber and each of said first and second fluid passageways comprise a tubular bore, and wherein the bore of said first passageway transversely intersects the bore of said mixing chamber at a point intermediate the ends of said mixing chamber bore, and further, wherein one end of said mixing chamber bore transversely intersects the inner end of said second passageway bore.
14. The spraying device of claim 13 , wherein the particle screening means of said mixing chamber has a frusto-conical configuration, the axis of said frusto-conical configuration being coaxial with the axis of said mixing chamber bore.
15. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said inlet and said outlet are each provided with respective particle screening means.
16. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said pressurized mixing fluid consists of water.
17. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said mixing chamber is provided with particle screening means.
18. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said worm lure mixture provides at least 10 parts per million of chlorine.
19. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein said inlet is provided with respective water fluid flow control means.
20. The apparatus of claim 19 wherein said fluid flow control means consists of a control valve.
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US10/113,366 US6618977B1 (en) | 2002-03-29 | 2002-03-29 | Method and device for harvesting earthworms |
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US10/113,366 US6618977B1 (en) | 2002-03-29 | 2002-03-29 | Method and device for harvesting earthworms |
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US20030182839A1 true US20030182839A1 (en) | 2003-10-02 |
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