WO2007142605A1

WO2007142605A1 - Automatic lethal ovitrap

Info

Publication number: WO2007142605A1
Application number: PCT/SG2007/000137
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alahakone Puvanesvary
Original assignee: Dollansky, Erich
Priority date: 2006-06-09
Filing date: 2007-05-19
Publication date: 2007-12-13
Also published as: AU2007257636A1; EP2104418A1; SG138483A1

Abstract

Modular system and its components to build and operate an apparatus to collect or destroy mosquito eggs or larvae. The apparatus can be operated manually or automatically. To keep a constant water level in a breeding spot (100, 101, 102, 110, 112, 120) water is continuously moved from a reservoir (201) into a container (10).

Description

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an environmental sound, simple and cost- effective method of controlling water-breeding mosquitoes.

Background of the Invention

Some 1.5 million people die every year as a result of a mosquito bite. The World Health Organization considers mosquito control as a critical element of any mosquito-borne disease prevention.

The effectiveness of any method using chemical agents is dropping more and more. This is proven by the world-wide rise of mosquito-related fatalities.

Summary of the Invention

The invention provides a method and an apparatus to collect mosquito eggs and mosquito larvae of water-breeding mosquitoes.

The apparatus is built out of several building blocks. The apparatus will be custom-built using the building blocks described in the present invention.

The building blocks are:

Ovitrap (OT)

Water Level Regulator (WLR)

Fresh Water Supply (FWS)

Collection Unit (CU)

Destruction Unit (DU)

System Controller (SC)

Fresh Water Supply System (FWSS)

Drainage System (DS)

The building blocks can be used to build systems starting with only a single ovitrap up to hundreds or even more ovitraps included in a single system. Individual systems can be operated in a grid to offer protection from mosquitoes in any human settlement of any size.

The function of the system is described in the Singaporean patent application 200505987-8. Definiton of the Building Blocks and Components Ovitrap

An ovitrap provides a breeding spot for mosquitoes. Water Level Regulator

A Water Level Regulator regulates the water level in a given container to a preset level.

Fresh Water Supply

A Fresh Water Supply supplies the system with fresh water.

Collection Unit

A Collection Unit collects the mosquito eggs and larvae.

Destruction Unit

A Destruction Unit destroys the mosquito eggs and larvae.

Fresh Water Supply System

A Fresh Water Supply System supplies fresh water to the system. Drainage System

A Drainage System drains the water with the collected mosquito eggs and larvae from the ovitraps.

System Controller

A System Controller controls all events in the system.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 illustrates an Automatic Lethal Ovitrap.

Figure 2 illustrates a Water Level Regulator.

Figure 3 illustrates an Ovitrap.

Figure 4 illustrates a combination of an Ovitrap and a drain.

Figure 5 illustrates an alternative combination of an Ovitrap and a drain.

Figure 6 illustrates an Automatic Lethal Ovitrap for large scale implementation.

Figure 7 illustrates a Water Level Regulator with Pressure Sensor. Figure 8 illustrates a Destruction Unit.

Detailed Description of the Drawings Figure 1

Figure 1 illustrates a typical system layout for an Automatic Lethal Ovitrap.

A System Controller 1 is connected via Connection 300 to a Fresh Water Supply 2. The System Controller 1 is connected via Connection 301 to a Destruction Unit 3. The System Controller 1 is connected via Connection

302 to a Valve 5. The System Controller 1 is connected via a Connection

303 to a Collection Unit 4. The System Controller 1 is connected via a connection 304 to the Valves 109, 119, 129. The System Controller 1 sends control signals to the connected units via connections 300, 301, 302, 303 and 304.

The System Controller 1 is connected via Connection 200 to electricity.

The System Controller 1 is connected to Connection 202. Connection 202 provides access from outside to internal information of the System Controller 1 and as such to the data of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap.

The Fresh Water Supply 2 is connected via a Pipe 201 to a water supply. The Fresh Water Supply 2 is connected to a Pipe 203. The Fresh Water Supply 2 is connected via a Pipe 400 to a Water Level Regulator 10. The Water Level Regulator 10 is connected via a Pipe 401 to a Water Level Regulator 11. The Water Level Regulator 11 is connected via a Pipe 402 to a Water Level Regulator 12. The Water Level Regulator 12 is connected via a Pipe 403 to the Fresh Water Supply 2. The Water Level Regulator 10 is connected via a Pipe 410 to Ovitraps 100, 101 and 102. The Water Level Regulator 10 is connected to the Pipe 203.

The Water Level Regulator 11 is connected via a Pipe 411 to Ovitraps 110 and 111. The Water Level Regulator 11 is connected to the Pipe 203.

The Water Level Regulator 12 is connected via a Pipe 412 to Ovitrap 120. The Water Level Regulator 12 is connected to the Pipe 203.

The Ovitraps 100, 101 and 102 are connected via a Pipe 500 to the Valve 109.

The Ovitraps 110 and 112 are connected via a Pipe 501 to the Valve 119. The Ovitrap 120 is connected via a Pipe 502 to the Valve 129.

The Valves 109, 119 and 129 are connected via a Pipe 510 to a Destruction Unit 3 and a Collection Unit 4.

The Destruction Unit 3 is connected to the Pipe 203.

The Collection Unit 4 is connected via a Pipe 511 to the Valve 5. The Collection Unit 4 is connected to a Pipe 203. The Valve 5 is connected to a Pipe 512. The collected eggs and larvae can be taken out of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap via Pipe 512 for further processing.

The System Controller 1 is connected via Connection 305 to the Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120. The System Controller 1 instructs the Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 to induce vibration to the enclosed water.

Installation

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap relies on gravity for many functions. Gravity is aways available. Most of the functions which rely on gravity can also be done with other technical means. While other technical means can fail, gravity will not fail.

The use of gravity requires that the individual components are arranged as described.

The Fresh Water Supply 2 is installed at the lowest point of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap. The first Water Level Regulator, Water Level Regulator 10, will be installed at the highest point. The next Water Level Regulator, Water Level Regulator 11, will be installed lower than Water Level Regulator 10, but higher than Water Level Regulator 12. The Pipes 401, 402 and 403 are laid that gravity will allow the water flow from the higher level to the lower level. The Water Level Regulators and the connecting pipes have to be installed in a way that the water can freely flow from one Water Level Regulator to the next and finally into the Fresh Water Supply 2. The Pipe 203 has to be installed in a way that all water flowing into it from the different elements of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap can flow out at the other end of the Pipe 203. As the water coming out of the Pipe 203 can contain eggs and/ or larvae, precautions must be taken that they cannot develop into mosquitoes. The Pipe 203 will remove all surplus water from the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap.

All Ovitraps connected to a single Water Level Regulator are installed on the same level as the Water Level Regulator itself. Ovitraps 100, 101 and 102 are installed at the same level as Water Level Regulator 10. Ovitraps 110 and 112 are installed on the same level as Water Level Regulator 11. Ovitrap 120 is installed on the same level as Water Level Regulator 12.

When more ovitraps are needed at different levels, more Water Level Regulators have to be installed.

All Ovitraps of one level are connected to one valve. The Valves 109, 119 and 129 are connected to the Pipe 510 which is installed in a way that the water can freely move from the highest point at Valve 109 to the lowest point at Destruction Unit 3 and Collection Unit 4.

The size of an Automatic Lethal Ovitrap can be from a system with a single ovitrap up to a nation-wide system. Systems to protect individuals can be operated in the house or in the garden of the house. The installation in the garden is done typically in the soil surrounded by plants. Preferred are plants which attract mosquitoes.

Systems to protect a community must be built more solid. Ovitraps can then be built using materials like concrete, steel, fibre glass or PVC to reduce the cost and keep a high level of reliablity. The system to protect a community can be built in parallel to an existing drainage system as a drainage system also relies on gravity to move the water. The size of the pump to supply fresh water to the Water Level Regulator at the highest point must be adopted to the height difference found at the installation.

The Water Level Regulators for this system can be built following local standards for dimensions of building materials used in the construction of roads and pavements. This makes the integration of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap into an existing drainage and road system very easy.

Operation

The Automatic Ovitrap will cycle automatically through the following steps: Default State: power-less or off state

Start-Up State: state after the command to start is given

Collection State: the ovitraps are ready as a breeding spot

Emptying State: the ovitraps are emptied

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap will then cycle through the state Collection and Emptying until stopped.

Default State

The Automatic Ovitrap enters its default state when the power or water supply fails. It will also enter its default state when the System Controller 1 detects a malfunction it cannot overcome.

The Fresh Water Supply 2 does not supply any water to the Pipe 400.

The Valves 109, 119 and 129 are all in their open state. This allows the outflow of all water stored in all Water Level Regulators 10, 11 and 12 and Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120.

The Destruction Unit 3 has its input valve opened to allow all incoming eggs and larvae to be destroyed.

The Collection Unit 4 has its input valve closed to block all eggs and larvae from entering the collection unit.

The Pipe 400 has to be installed in a way that surplus water supplied will flow back from Water Level Regulator 10 when supply is stopped.

Start-Up State

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap is connected to electricity and water. The Fresh Water Supply opens a mechanical valve to fill its own water tank to a preset level.

Steps to be executed:

The System Controller 1 instructs the Valves 109, 119 and 129 to close. The System Controler 1 instructs the Destruction Unit 3 to close its input valve. The System Controller 1 instructs the Collection Unit 4 to close its input valve.

If the Fresh Water Supply 2 is equipped with a water level sensor, it will signal the System Controller 1 via the Connection 300, the water level. The System Controller 1 will instruct the Fresh Water Supply 2 to move water into Pipe 400. If the Fresh Water Supply 2 is not equipped with a water level sensor, the System Controller 1 will wait a preset time before instructing the Fresh Water Supply 2 to move water into the Pipe 400.

Effects:

The water supplied to Water Level Regulator 10 will make the water level in the Ovitraps 100, 101 and 102 rise. The surplus water will be supplied via Pipe 401 to the next Water Level Regulator where the same procedure will take place.

The last Water Level Regulator 12 will send the surplus water via Pipe 403 back to the Fresh Water Supply 2.

If the Pipe 403 is equipped with a flow sensor, the Fresh Water Supply 2 will inform the System Controller 1 via Connection 300 of the current water flow.

Surplus water coming into any Ovitrap 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 will be moved to the Fresh Water Supply 2 as any other surplus water.

Collection State

The Fresh Water Supply 2 continues supplying water while the water level in the Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 is kept constant by the Water Level Regulators 10, 11 and 12.

All valves are kept in the position as set during the Start-Up phase as described above.

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap stays in this mode for a preset time. The precise time depends on the main target mosquito. Different tests showed that a time period of three to four days results in a maximum catch. The time length has to be set so that no larva can develop into a mosquito.

Emptying State

Steps to be executed:

1. The System Controller 1 instructs the Fresh Water Supply 2 to stop supplying water into the Pipe 400.

2. The System Controller 1 instructs the Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 to induce vibration to the water.

3. The System Controller 1 instructs Valves 109, 119 and 129 to open.

4. If the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap is in destruction mode, the System Controller 1 will instruct the Destruction Unit 3 to open its input valve. If the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap is in collection mode, the System Controller 1 will instruct the Collection Unit 4 to open its input valve.

5. If the Pipe 510 is equipped with a flow sensor, the System Controller 1 will wait until the water flow stops. If the Pipe 510 is not equipped with a flow sensor, the System Controller 1 will wait a preset time.

6. The System Controller will set a counter to zero.

7. The System Controller will instruct the Valves 109, 119 and 129 to close.

8. The System Controller will instruct the Fresh Water Supply 2 to move water into the Pipe 400.

9. After a preset time and after - if Pipe 403 is equipped with a flow sensor - the Fresh Water Supply 2 reports return water flow through the Pipe 403, the System Controller will instruct the Fresh Water Supply to stop moving water into the Pipe 400.

10. The System Controller 1 will instruct the Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 to induce vibration to the water.

11. The System Controller 1 will instruct the Valves 109, 119 and 129 to open.

12. If the Pipe 510 is equipped with a flow sensor, the System Controller 1 will wait until the water flow stops. If the Pipe 510 is not equipped with a flow sensor, the System Controller 1 will wait a preset time.

13. The System Controller will increment the counter by one.

14. If the counter is below a preset value, the System Controller will go back to step 7.

15. The System Controller 1 will wait a preset time to allow the Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 to dry.

16. The System Controller will instruct the Valves 109, 119 and 129 to close.

17. The System Controller 1 will instruct the Fresh Water Supply 2 to move water into the pipe 400.

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap is now collecting eggs again. Effects:

The vibration induced to the water will make larvae, which might have developed in the ovitraps, to move down to the bottom of the Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120. The move increases the chances that all larvae are moved out of the ovitrap when the water starts flowing.

The water from all Ovitraps 100, 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 will flow via the respective Valves 109, 119 and 129 through Pipe 510 into either the Destruction Unit 3 or the Collection Unit 4.

The preferred time to start the above cycle is at least 1 hour after sun rise to a minimum of 3 hours before sun set.

Alternatives

The Valves 6109 and 6119 can be replaced by a pump resting in a container. The pump can be used to move all the water from the ovitraps to a destruction unit. This allows the design of very small and cost effective units. The destruction unit does not have to have an input valve in this case, if the piping is done in a way that the water flow between the pump and the destruction unit stops when the pump stops operating.

Figure 2

Figure 2 illustrates a Water Level Regulator in a sectional drawing. The Water Level Regulator 10 is used as an example. The Water Level Regulators 11 and 12 are built the same way.

The Water Level Regulator 10 consists of a container 1001 capable of holding liquid and a cover 1000. An Opening 1010 in the Cover 1000 allows air to flow freely in and out of the room included by the Container 1001 and the Cover 1000.

A Pipe 1011 is placed in the bottom of the Container 1001. The end of Pipe

1011 inside the Container 1001 is at the same level as the bottom of Container 1001. The Pipe 1011 is used to supply water into the Water Level Regulator 10.

A Pipe 1012 is placed in the bottom of the Container 1001. The end of Pipe

1012 inside the Container 1001 is set to the highest level of all Pipes leading into Container 1001. The Pipe 1012 is used to drain all over supplied water out of the Water Level Regulator 1001.

A Pipe 1013 is placed in the bottom of the Container 1002. The end of Pipe 1013, inside the Container, is set to the same level as the water level as required by the Ovitraps connected to the Water Level Regulator 10. In other words: the absolute height of the end of the Pipe 1013 sets the absolute water level in the connected ovitraps.

A Pipe 1014 is placed in the lowest point of the bottom of the Container 1001. The end of Pipe 1014 is placed at the lowest point of Container 1001.

The bottom of the Container 1001 can be shaped so that all the water stored in it can flow out through the Pipe 1014.

Water is supplied to the Water Level Regulator 10 via the Pipe 1011. The water fills the Container 1001 and also flows out via the Pipe 1014 which is connected to one or more Ovitraps. As a result, the absolute water level in the Container 1001 is the same as the absolute water level in all connected Ovitraps.

When the water level in the Container 1001 reaches the end of Pipe 1013, it begins to flow out through Pipe 1013. The cross-section of the Pipe 1013 has to be large enough to be able to drain all surplus water.

If too much water is supplied it will flow out through the Pipe 1012. Figure 3

Figure 3 illustrates an Ovitrap in a sectional drawing. The Ovitrap 100 is used as an example. All other Ovitraps 101, 102, 110, 112 and 120 used in the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap are built the same way.

The Ovitrap 100 consists of a Container 1100. The Container 1100 is open on its top to give mosquitoes access to the water stored in it. The Container 1100 is connected to a Pipe 1020. The Pipe 1020 supplies fresh water to the Ovitrap 100.

The Container 1100 is connected to a Pipe 1021. The Pipe 1021 drains the Container 1100.

The Pipe 1020 is arranged so that its opening is higher than Pipe 1021 but lower than the water level in the Container 1100.

The bottom of the Container 1100 is shaped in a way that all water stored can flow out via the Pipe 1021.

A Container 1013 is inserted into Container 1100 at its bottom. The Container 1013 can contain natural soil from the environment where the Automatic Ovitrap is installed.

A Net 1012 is inserted into Container 1100. The Net 1012 is installed above the bottom of the Container 1100 and above the Container 1013. Soil from the environment where the Automatic Ovitrap is installed can be placed on the Net 1012.

A Net 1011 is inserted into Container 1100. The Net 1011 is installed above Net 1012 but below the water level in Container 1100. It is preferably also installed below the Pipe 1020.

Some Biological Material 1040 is placed on Net 1011. The Biological Material 1040 is chosen in a way that it attracts mosquitoes. The Biological Material is preferably the same as found in the environment where the Automatic Ovitrap is installed.

A Solenoid 1030 is attached to the Container 1100. The Solenoid 1030 is connected via Connection 305 to the System Controller 1. The Solenoid 1030 is used to induce vibrations to the water stored in the Container 1100. Larvae which eventuelly developed inside the stored water will then start to sink as fast as possible to the bottom of the Container 1100. The move increases the chances that all larvae will be flushed out when the Container 1100 is emptied.

Operation

While the Pipe 1021 is not blocked, no water will stay in the Container 1100. This is used to dry out all larvae which eventually developed and which got caught somewhere inside the Container 1100.

When the Pipe 1021 is blocked and water is supplied via the Pipe 1020, the water level in the Container 1100 will rise until it reaches the level set by an external Water Level Controller.

As no water movement appears inside the Container 1100 after the preset water level is reached, the water in the Container 1100 is considered to be stagnant by a mosquito. The Biological Material 1040 and the soil in Container 1013 will lure a mosquito to lay her eggs into the water.

When the water inflow via the Pipe 1020 is stopped, the Solenoid 103 is instructed to induce vibration and the Pipe 1021 is opened. All the water inside the Container 1100 will flow out of the Container 1100 taking most of the collected eggs and larvae along. Additional flooding-emptying cycles will wash out more eggs. Keeping the Container 1100 dry during a period of time when no mosquitoes are expected to be ready to lay eggs increases the chances that all collected eggs and larvae are washed out or destroyed.

Figure 4

Figure 4 illustrates the combination of an Ovitrap and a Drain.

A combined Ovitrap/Drain 2000 consists of a Body 2010. The Body 2010 has the Opening 2030 to allow mosquitoes access to a Container 2031 which is shaped like the Ovitrap 100 described in Figure 3. The Container 2031 is part of the Body 2010. The Container 2031 is connected to the Pipe 410. The Pipe 410 supplies the Container 2031 with water. The Container 2031 is connected to the Pipe 500. The Pipe 500 is used to drain the water stored in the Container 2031.

The Body 2010 has an Opening 2020. The Opening 2020 is connected to the Pipe 2102. Liquid or solid bodies moving through the Opening 2020 into the Body 2010 will be moved out via the Pipe 2102. The Pipe 2102 is connected to a drainage system.

It is also possible to add a Water Level Regulator to the combination of an Ovitrap and a Drain. It is also possible to combine just the Water Level Regulator and the Ovitrap.

The external measurements of any combination shown here should follow the standards in the respective countries where the Automatic Ovitrap is supposed to be installed.

The combined Ovitrap/Drain 2000 can be used as part of an Automatic Lethal Ovitrap to install ovitraps along drains in public and private places.

Figure 5

Figure 5 illustrates an alternative combination of an Ovitrap and a Drain.

A combined Ovitrap/Drain 3000 consists of a Body 3010. The Body 3010 has several Openings 3020 on its top on one side of the Body 3010. The Openings 3020 allow the water and also mosquitoes to enter the Body 3010. The Body 3010 is hollow below the Openings 3020 so that all the entering water will fall down to the the Slope 3021 from where it will flow into the Opening 2102. An external pipe can be connected to the Opening 2102 to lead the outflowing water away.

The Body 3010 has an Opening 3030 in the inside. The Opening 3030 is arranged in a way that the room behind it is not reachable from the top of the Body 3010. The room behind the Opening 3030 leads to the Structure 3031 which is shaped like the Ovitrap as documented in Figure 3. A Net 3091 is inserted into the Structure 3031. Some Biological Material 3090 is placed on top of the Net 3091. A Net 3092 is inserted into Structure 3031. The Net 3092 is inserted in a lower position than Net 3091. The Structure 3031 has an Opening 3080. The Opening 3080 is used to supply the Structure 3031 with fresh water. The Structure has an Opening 3081. The Opening 3081 is used to drain the water out of Structure 3031. The Opening 3080 is arranged higher than the Opening 3081. The Opening 3081 is arranged in a way that all the water stored in the Structure 3031 can flow out via the Opening 3081. The combined Ovitrap/ Drain 3000 has to be installed in a way that the Water Level Regulator connected to it sets the water level in the Structure 3031 to be always below the Opening 3030.

Figure 6

Figure 6 illustrates an alternative Automatic Lethal Ovitrap.

The main use will be a large scale implementation of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap.

A System Controller 6001 is connected to a Connection 6303. The System Controller 6001 is connected to a Connection 6302. The System Controller 6001 is connected to a Connection 6301. The System Controller 6001 is connected to a Connection 6300. The System Controller 6001 is connected to a Connection 6200. The System Controller 6001 is connected to a Connection 6202.

The Connection 6303 is connected to a Collection Unit 6004. The Connection 6302 is connected to a Valve 6005.The Connection 6301 is connected to a Destruction Unit 6003. The Connection 6300 is connected to a Fresh Water Supply 6002.

The Connection 6200 is used to supply the System Controller 6001 with Electricity. The Connection 6202 is used to give external Units access to the internal data of the System Controller 6001.

The Fresh Water Supply 6002 is connected to a Pipe 6402. The Fresh Water Supply 6002 is connected to a Pipe 6400. The Fresh Water Supply 6002 is connected to a Pipe 6203. The Fresh Water Supply 6002 is connected to a Pipe 6201.

The Pipe 6201 supplies the Fresh Water Supply 6002 with water. The Pipe 6203 drains all surplus water out of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap.

The Fresh Water Supply 6002 moves water into Pipe 6400 when instructed by the System Controller 6001 via the Connection 6300.

The Pipe 6400 is connected to a Water Flow Regulator 6010. The Water Flow Regulator 6010 is connected to a Pipe 6403. The Water Flow Regulator 6010 supplies a constant flow of water into the Pipe 6403 when water is supplied via the Pipe 6400.

The Pipe 6403 is connected to a Water Level Regulator 6010. The Water Level Regulator 6010 is connected to a Pipe 6410.

The Water Level Regulator 6010 is connected to a Connection 6411. The Water Level Regulator 6010 is connected to a Pipe 6401.

The Pipe 6401 is connected to a Water Level Regulator 6011. The Water Level Regulator 6011 is connected to a Pipe 6412. The Water Level Regulator 6011 is connected to Connection 6413.

The Water Level Regulator 6011 is connected to a Pipe 6402. The Pipe 6402 is connected to the Fresh Water Supply 6002.

The Pipe 6410 is connected to an Ovitrap 6101 and an Ovitrap 6102. The Ovitrap is connected to a Pipe 6500. The Pipe 6500 is connected to the Ovitrap 6102. The Pipe 6500 is connected to a Valve 6109. The Valve 6109 is connected to Connection 6411.

The Pipe 6412 is connected to an Ovitrap 6112. The Ovitrap 6112 is connected to a Pipe 6501. The Pipe 6501 is connected to a Valve 6119. The Valve 6119 is connected to Connection 6413.

The Valve 6109 is connected to a Pipe 6510. The Pipe 6510 is connected to the Valve 6119. The Pipe 6510 is connected to the Collection Unit 6004. The Pipe 6510 is connected to Destruction Unit 6003.

The Collection Unit 6004 is connected to a Pipe 6511. The Pipe 6511 is connected to the Valve 6005.

Installation

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap has to be installed in a way that gravity can move the water from the Water Flow Regulator 6009 via the Pipe 6403 down to the Water Level Regulator 6010 and then via the Pipe 6401 down to the Water Level Regulator 6011 and then through the Pipe 6402 back to the Fresh Water Supply 6002.

The drainage of the Ovitraps 6101, 6102 and 6112 has to be installed the same way.

This makes the installation of the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap in parallel of existing water drains possible.

A large scale implementation can be done in the scale of an estate, a village, a city or even a country. The simplest form of a large scale Automatic Lethal Ovitrap will include a Single System Controller 6001 , a single Destruction Unit 6003 and a single Fresh Water Supply 6002. The Pipe 6400 will be laid all over the chosen area to be covered by the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap. A single Water Flow Regulator 6010 will be installed on every local highest point. Any number of Water Level Regulators 6010 can be installed between the local highest point down to the local lowest point. Pipes, like 6402, coming from other Water Level Regulators from other installations can be joined. The dimension of the Pipes have to be done in a way that all water will flow down to the Fresh Water Supply 6002 and not back into the other joined Pipes, like 6402. Any number of Ovitraps 6101 can be connected to a single Water Level Regulator 6010 as long as all Ovitraps are at the same level.

A system implementing the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap in a large scale consists of one system wide supply Pipe 6400 which will lead to all the local highest points where Water Flow Regulators 6009 are installed. The Pipe 6400 contains water under pressure. The pressure must be high enough to bring water up to the highest point in the system. Additional pressure regulators and pumps can be used to achieve this. If additional means are used, it must be made sure that the Pipe 6400 becomes free of any pressure when the Fresh Water Supply 6002 stops supplying water to the Pipe 6400. The lack of pressure in the Pipe 6400 and the following Pipes 6403 and 6401, is used to activate the Valves 6109 and 6119.

The Pipe 6510 has to be installed like any other drainage system. This means that all water supplied to the Pipe 6510 must be able to flow to its lowest point at the Destruction Unit 6003 or the Collection Unit 6004. Additional technical means like pumps can be used to achieve this.

The more eggs are collected and destroyed, the less eggs are laid by mosquitoes into natural breeding spots. A network of ovitraps installed together with or next to every public drain will provide enough ovitraps to create a virtually mosquito free environment.

The individual ovitraps should be covered to minimise the inflow of rain water. The cover will also protect the ovitrap from other objects entering it. If the ovitrap is not built into another object, the cover should be some 10cm above the ovitrap. This gives the mosquitoes enough space to fly to the water inside the ovitrap.

Better results are achieved when the ovitrap is surrounded by plants which are used by the mosquitoes to feed on. If the ovitrap is inserted into a small patch of grass, the results are already better as if the ovitrap is inserted in a pavement.

Ovitraps can be built in a very solid manner to be inserted into roads and other public places with high vehicle and human traffic.

Operation

Default State The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap enters its default state whenever no water or no electricity is supplied. It also enters its default state when it detects a malfunction it cannot overcome.

The Fresh Water Supply 6002 does not move water into the Pipe 6400.

The Valve 6109 is opened.

The Valve 6119 is opened.

The input valve of the Destruction Unit 6003 is opened.

The input valve of the Collection Unit 6004 is closed.

The Valve 6005 is closed.

Start-up State

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap is connected to electricity and water.

The start-up state is entered whenever the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap gets the command to start. It might also be entered after a malfunction was detected and the System Controller 1 was able to overcome it.

The System Controller 6001 instructs the Fresh Fresh Water Supply 6002 to move water into the Pipe 6400. The water moves through the Pipe 6400 to the Water Flow Regulator 6009.

The Water Flow Regulator 6009 will limit the outflow into the Pipe 6403 to a preset value. The water flowing out of the Water Flow Regulator 6009 will move through the Pipe 6402 to the Water Level Regulator 6010. When the water pressure at the incoming Pipe 6403, inside the Water Level Regulator 6010 reaches the preset level, the Water Level Regulator 6010 instructs the Valve 6109 via the Connection 6411 to close. When a preset water level is reached inside the Water Level Regulator 6010, water will flow from the Water Level Regulator 6010 via the Pipe 6410, into the Ovitraps 6101 and 6102.

When the second preset water level in the Water Level Regualtor 6010 is reached, the surplus water will move via the Pipe 6401 to the Water Level Regulator 6011. The Water Level Regulator 6011 will do the same as the Water Level Regulator 6010 until it also overflows. The surplus water will then move via the Pipe 6402 back to the Fresh Water Supply 6002.

The Fresh Water Supply 6002 will recycle this water and move it back into the Pipe 6400. Any surplus water the Fresh Water Supply 6002 cannot handle will be drained out via the Pipe 6203.

The Automatic Ovitrap will now stay in this state for a preset period of time.

Emptying State

If the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap is in collection mode, the System Controller 6001 instructs via the Connection 6303 the Collection Unit 6004 to open its input valve. The Destruction Unit 6003 is then instructed by the System Controller 6001 via the Connection 6301 to close its input valve.

If the Automatic Lethal Ovitrap is in Destruction mode, the System Controller 6001 instructs via the Connection 6303 the Colleciton Unit 6004 to close its input valve. The Destruction Unit 6003 is then instructed by the System Controller 6001 to open its input valve.

The System Controller will then instruct the Fresh Water Supply 6002 to stop moving water into the Pipe 6400. This will make the water pressure in the connected Water Level Regulators 6010 and 6011 fall.

When the water pressure in the Pipe 6402 falls inside the Water Level Regualtor 6010, it will instruct the Valve 6109 via the Connection 6411 to open. The water from the Ovitraps 6101 and Ovitrap 6102 will then flow via the Pipe 6510 to either the Destruction Unit 6003 or Collection Unit 6004.

The System Controller 6001 will keep the Automatic Ovitrap in this state to allow the Ovitraps to dry.

The preferred start of this cycle is 1 hour after sun rise. The cycle should be completed 1 hour before sun set.

The Automatic Lethal Ovitrap will then go into the startup state to refill the Ovitraps

The time it takes to empty all Ovitraps of an Automatic Lethal Ovitrap depends on the number of Ovitraps used and the height difference inside the system. The system has to be designed in a way that the water will flow out within one hour after sun rise and one hour before sun set.

Alternative Implementation

Alternatively, the Valves 6109 and 6119 can be activated by any other means as long as the pressure in the supplying Pipe 6403 and 6401 is used for activation.

Alternatively, the Valves 6109 and 6119 can be activated by any other means as long as the pressure in the supplying Pipe 6400 is used for activation. Figure 7

Figure 7 illustrates a Water Level Regulator with pressure sensor.

The Water Level Regulator 6010 consists of a Cover 7001. The Cover 7001 has a Hole 7010 to allow free air flow in and out of the Water Level Regulator 6010. The Water Level Regulator 6010 has a Container 7002. The Container 7002 has several openings in the bottom. A Pipe 7012 is led into the Container 7002 up to a height which sets the water level for an overflow. The Pipe 7012 is externally connected to the Pipe 6203. A Pipe 7013 is led into the Container 7002 up to a height which sets the water level in the connected Ovitraps. When the water level in Container 7002 reaches the height of the Pipe 7013, it will flow out thus keeping the water level in the Container 7002 constant. The Pipe 7013 is connected to the next Water Level Regulator in the row. It is done via the Pipe 6401 in this example. A Pipe 7011 is led into the Container 7002 up to a height below the height of the Pipe 7013. The Pipe 7011 is connected via the Pipe 6410 with the Ovitraps. This connection will allow the water to flow into the connected Ovitraps up to the same level as in the Water Level Regualtor 6010.

A Pipe 7014 is led into the Container 7002 with a minimum height. The Pipe 7014 will supply fresh water to the Container 7002 via the Pipe 6403.

A Floater 7020 will be placed above the Pipe 7014. The Floater 7020 is connected to Connection 6411. The water pressure above the Pipe 7014 will make the Floater 7020 rise. When the water pressure is high enough to overcome the closing force of the Valve 6109, the Valve 6109 will close. When the water pressure falls, the Floater 7020 will lower its position and so open via Connection 6411 the Valve 6109.

Operation

When water starts flowing into the Container 7002 via the Pipe 7014 the Floater 7020 will be lifted. This will close the connected Valve 6109. After the water level in the Container 7002 reaches the height of the Pipe 7011, water will start to flow into the connected Ovitraps. The water level in the Water Level Regulator and the connected Ovitraps will be the same. After the water level in the Container 7002 reaches the level set by the height of the Pipe 7013, water will start to flow out of the Pipe 7013. This will keep the water level in the Water Level Regulator 6010 and the connected Ovitraps at this level. If water enters any of the connected Ovitraps, it will flow back into the Water Level Regulator 6010 from where it will flow into the Pipe 7013. This will keep the water level constant.

If the capacity of the Pipe 7013 is not high enough to drain all water out, the water level will start to rise until it reaches the level set by the height of the Pipe 7012. The water will then flow out of the Pipe 7012.

Any number of Ovitraps can be connected to a single Water Level Regulator as long as all Ovitraps are at the same level.

Figure 8

Figure 8 illustrates a Destruction Unit.

The Destruction Unit 3 consists of a Body 8100. The Body 8100 has an Opening 8030 at its bottom. The Body 8100 has an Opening 8020. A Net 8040 is inserted into the Opening 8020 in a way that it will block all mosquitoes from leaving the Body 8100. The Opening 8020 is externally connected to the Pipe 203. The Body 8100 as an Opening 8022. A Valve 8021 is inserted into the Opening 8022. The Opening 8022 is externally connected to the Pipe 510. The Body 8100 is at least partially dug into Soil 8101. The Valve 8021 is connected to the Connection 8023. The Connection 8023 is externally connected to Connection 301. The Opening 8020 is externally connected to the Pipe 203. The Opening 8022 is externally connected to the Pipe 510.

The level of the Opening 8020 has to be higher than the Opening 8022. Operation

The System Controller 1 sends commands via the Connection 8023 to the Valve 8021. When the Valve 8021 is instructed to open, the water provided via the Pipe 510 will flow through the Opening 8022 into the Body 8100 to its bottom where the Opening 8030 is. The water will then seep into the Soil 8101. If more water is supplied, as fits into the Body 8100 while it is seeping out on its bottom, the water level will rise and the water will start to flow out through the Opening 8020 into the Pipe 203. The Pipe 203 will then drain all surplus water away.

Mosquito eggs contained in the water flowing into the Body 8100 might develop into larvae and mosquitoes. As the Body 8100 has no outlet except of the Opening 8030 where mosquitoes cannot escape and the Opening 8020, where the Net 8040 blocks the mosquitoes from leaving, no mosquito will be able to reach the outside of the Destruction Unit 3. Eggs coming into the Body 8100 will stay inside until they decompose.

Precautions will have to be taken if a destruction unit is to be opened.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method to provide a constant water level and keeping the water stagnant in a breeding spot for mosquitoes comprising the steps of continuously moving water from a reservoir into a container which has an overflow at the same level as the desired water level in the breeding spot; moving the surplus water from said container back to said reservoir and connecting said container with said breeding spot via a pipe so that the water can freely flow between said container and said breeding spot.

2. A method to automatically emptying a breeding spot for mosquitoes which water level is regulated by a water level regulator and which drainage pipe is connected to a valve comprising the steps of continuously monitoring the water pressure of the water supply of said water level regulator and opening said valve when said water pressure falls below a predefined value.

3. A method to destroy all eggs, larvae or pupae collected in a breeding spot for mosquitoes comprising the steps of moving the water currently contained in a breeding spot into a container which is buried in the ground so that the water moved into it can seep into the ground via an opening at or near its bottom so that there is no other route out for the mosquitoes which might develop during this process.

4. An apparatus to provide a breeding spot for mosquitoes consisting of a container to store water; an inlet to supply water to the said container; an outlet to drain the stored water out of said container and an opening on its top to allow mosquitoes to lay their eggs into it.

5. An apparatus to provide a breeding spot for mosquitoes consisting of a drain to drain water off its environment; a container to store water; an inlet to supply water to the said container; an outlet to drain the stored water out of said container and an opening to allow mosquitoes to lay their eggs into the said container.

6. A method to operate a network of ovitraps comprising the steps of providing a water supply network up to the highest point of the ovitrap network; organising the ovitraps so that ovitraps which are on the same height level within a small area are connected to one water level regulator; organising the water level regulators within a small area so that they form a chain from the locally highest point to the locally lowest point in which the overflow from the water level regulator located higher supplies the water to the water level regulator located lower in the chain; supplying water from said water supply network to the said water level regulators at said locally highest points with a predefined fixed flow rate; collecting the overflowing water from the said water level regulators at the said locally lowest points in the said chains of water level regulators in a collector; monitoring the water level in said collector and adding fresh water to said collector when the said water level in said collector falls below a predefined value and pumping the water from said collector into the said water supply network with a pressure high enough so that the water reaches the highest point in said water supply network.

7. A method according to claim 6 further comprising the steps of channeling the water with a regulated water level from a water level regulator to one or more ovitraps; channeling the drainage of said ovitraps connected to said water level regulator to a valve; monitoring the water pressure of the supply of said water level regulator; opening said valve when said water pressure of said water supply of said water level regulator falls below a predefined value and closing said valve when said water pressure of said water supply of said water level regulator rises above said predefined value.