WO2022187875A1

WO2022187875A1 - An electric shock device

Info

Publication number: WO2022187875A1
Application number: PCT/ZA2022/050009
Authority: WO
Inventors: Christoffel Johannes DU PLESSIS
Original assignee: Du Plessis Christoffel Johannes
Priority date: 2021-03-02
Filing date: 2022-03-02
Publication date: 2022-09-09
Also published as: ZA202308466B

Abstract

An electric shock device (10) including an electrically conductive impeding arrangement (12) for impeding an insect's access to bait (14) and an energising means in the form of a battery (not shown) arranged in electrical communication with and for electrically energising the impeding arrangement (12) for allowing an electric shock to be administered to the insect (not shown) while attempting to pass therethrough.

Description

AN ELECTRIC SHOCK DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to an electric shock device. In particular, this invention relates to an electric shock device for shocking insects.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the invention, there is provided an electric shock device including: an electrically conductive impeding arrangement for impeding an insect’s access to bait; and an energising means arranged in electrical communication with and for electrically energising the impeding arrangement for allowing an electric shock to be administered to the insect while attempting to pass therethrough.

The impeding arrangement may define an aperture or opening which is sized, shaped and/or configured to ensure contact between the impeding arrangement and the insect when the insect attempts to pass therethrough. The opening or aperture may have a width in the range of 2mm to 6mm, preferably being in the region of 4mm. The impeding arrangement may include at least two conductors arranged alongside each other to define the aperture or opening, preferably the impeding arrangement may include a plurality of conductors so as to define a plurality of apertures or openings for providing multiple locations or points for an insect to attempt to gain access to the bait. It is to be appreciated that the impeding arrangement may include any number of conductors, the number typically being dependent on the desired size of the impeding arrangement. The conductors may have an elongate shape, preferably being in the form of any one of the group including, but not limited to, wires, rods, and bars, which may be manufactured from any suitable conventional metallic material. The conductors may have a thickness in the range of 1 mm to 8mm, preferably being in the region of 2mm. The impeding arrangement may have a generally flat shape, preferably for allowing placement thereof over an opening in a receptacle which may be in the form of any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a container, bowl, mug, glass, dish, and the like. It is to be appreciated that such a receptacle typically includes a base and side walls extending from the base to define a receiving zone for receiving a food article or bait therein.

Alternatively, the impeding arrangement may have a generally curved and/or shell shape, preferably for allowing the impeding arrangement to be placed over and substantially cover bait for the insect which may be resting on a generally flat surface.

The conductors may be arranged adjacent and/or generally parallel each other, preferably so as to define a generally flat and/or grid-like structure. An outer profile of the grid-like structure may be of any suitable conventional geometric shape. The conductors may be connected to each other in any manner of the group including in series, in parallel, and a combination thereof. Alternatively, adjacent conductors may be spaced apart and disconnected from each other for inhibiting the flow of electric current therebetween in an inoperative condition. Preferably, the adjacent conductors may be oppositely charged so that when the insect attempts to pass through the aperture or opening between adjacent conductors, the oppositely charged conductors discharge and administer a shock to the insect. It is to be appreciated that the insect typically serves to connect adjacent conductors which causes electrical current to flow through the insect. It is to be appreciated further that in such a configuration, the impeding arrangement behaves similarly to a capacitor, in that consumption of power when insects are not in contact therewith is minimised.

A discharge means may be provided for discharging the electric charge between the oppositely charged conductors for allowing a user to handle the impeding arrangement without being shocked, typically when the impeding arrangement requires cleaning. The discharge means be in the form of a short circuit switch arrangement that connects each of the adjacent conductors when a user wishes to handle the impeding arrangement. Alternatively, the discharge means can be in the form of a metallic member or rod having an insulated handle for allowing a user to connect the adjacent conductors and allow discharging thereof. Further alternatively, and in a preferred embodiment, the discharge means may form part of circuitry connected between conductors of the impeding arrangement, and may be configured to operate automatically upon de-energising the impeding arrangement.

The plurality of conductive members may be defined by a single elongate member having sufficient length to be bent a number of times to form generally straight elongate portions which may be interconnected by a plurality of loops.

It is to be appreciated that the shock to the insect may be as a result of an electrical discharge or a short circuit between the conductors.

The energising means may be in the form of a battery. The battery may have a voltage in the range of 0.5V to 12V, preferably being 3V. Preferably, the energising means may be in the form of a pair of 1.5V AA batteries. The battery may be rechargeable. In particular, the battery may be rechargeable via a charging port capable of receiving a connector of any suitable conventional charging cable. Alternatively, the energising means may be in the form of a conventional electrical wall socket which may supply a voltage in the range of, but not limited to 220V to 240V.

A transformer may be provided for stepping up the voltage provided to the impeding arrangement. The transformer may be in the form of a step-up transformer which may be configured to step up the voltage supplied to the impeding arrangement to a voltage in the range of 240V to 12 000, preferably being configured to step up the voltage in the range of 2 000V to 6 000V.

A control means, preferably in the form of an electrical switch, may be provided for allowing a user to control flow of energy, preferably electrical energy, from the energising means to the impeding arrangement, thereby allowing a user the capability of activating or deactivating the shock device, as desired.

A holding arrangement may be provided for holding the conductors together, typically so as to ensure that the size of the apertures or openings defined therebetween are kept constant. The holding arrangement may include receiving apertures defined therein for receiving corresponding conductors complementally therein, preferably being received in a friction fit manner. The holding arrangement may be sized, shaped and/or configured to surround at least a portion of the impeding arrangement, preferably being in the form of a frame-like member which may have a shape which corresponds generally to an outer shape of the impeding arrangement.

The holding arrangement may be in the form of a lid for a container. Preferably an outer region of the holding arrangement may be configured to fit on a container in a lid-like fashion, typically so as to position the impeding arrangement across an opening of the container.

Alternatively, a spacer element may extend from the holding arrangement for spacing the holding arrangement and with it, the impeding arrangement from a surface on which bait has been placed. The spacer element may be in form of a wall which may be sized, shaped and/or configured to define an enclosure when placed on the surface, the enclosure typically having the bait therein. It is to be appreciated that when bait is placed on a generally flat surface, such as on a plate for example, a user would place the spacer element and with it the holding arrangement and impeding arrangement, over the bait so that the only route to the bait is via the apertures or openings in the impeding arrangement.

The holding arrangement may be manufactured from any suitable non- conductive or insulative material. The holding arrangement may be configured to serve as a handle for allowing a user to take hold of and/or carry the impeding arrangement without touching and receiving a shock from the conductors. In an alternative form of the invention, a connecting member may be provided for allowing interconnection between the holding arrangement and an edge portion of an opening of the container. The connecting member may include a container engaging portion which may be sized, shaped and/or configured to permit complemental engagement with the edge portion of the container opening. The connecting member may further include a receiving formation for receiving the holding arrangement therein, preferably complementally, so that the impeding arrangement spans the opening of the container. It is to be appreciated that the holding arrangement may be in the form of a frame of an electric swatting device. The receiving formation may be in the form of a stepped recess which is sized, shaped and/or configured according to the size, shape and configuration of the holding arrangement to allow the holding arrangement to rest thereon. Alternatively, the receiving formation may be in the form elongate guides which extend from the connecting member, preferably on opposing side regions of the container opening, wherein openings to the guides permit entry of the holding arrangement slidingly therein to allow the holding arrangement and with it, the impeding arrangement to slide over the container opening into a connected condition.

A housing may be provided for housing the energising means, the transformer, control means and any other electronic components associated therewith.

The insect may be in the form of any conventional insect pests including but not limited to flies, mosquitos, wasps and ants. The bait may be in the form of any conventional food item. Preferably, the bait is chosen depending on the type of insect pest a user wishes to attract. Further preferably, the bait may be in the form of a conventional household food item. A safety member may be provided for reducing the likelihood of a shock being administered to a user when handling the electric shock device. The safety member may be in the form of a barrier which may be spaced apart from the impeding arrangement a distance in the range of 2cm to 10cm, preferably being spaced apart a distance in the region of 4cm. The barrier may be mounted on the container such that the barrier spans across the container opening. Holes may be defined in the barrier for allowing passage of insects therethrough. The holes may be sized and/or shaped so as to allow insects to pass therethrough and inhibit passage of a finger of a user.

A cleaning arrangement may be provided for allowing a user to clean the impeding arrangement, preferably the conductors thereof. The cleaning arrangement may include a brush. The cleaning arrangement may be mounted on the holding arrangement. In particular, the cleaning arrangement may be mounted displaceably on the holding arrangement such that a brush portion thereof may extend through at least a part of the opening in the impeding arrangement and wherein the brush portion is displaceable from one side of the impeding arrangement to the other. The cleaning arrangement may be mounted displaceably on a track which may extend from the holding arrangement. The track may be defined by an elongate member which may be mounted on the holding arrangement or the track may be defined in the holding arrangement wherein the brush portion may include an engaging member which may be sized, shaped and/or configured to permit complementary sliding engagement between the brush portion and the track. The cleaning arrangement may further include a handle extending from a part of the brush for allowing user to displace and/or manipulate the position of the brush between opposing sides of the impeding arrangement, thus permitting cleaning of the conductors thereof. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an insect shocking device including: - a container for receiving bait therein; a conductive impeding arrangement as hereinbefore described; a mounting arrangement for mounting the impeding arrangement on the container so as to allow the impeding arrangement to substantially cover an opening of the container; and an energising means arranged in electrical communication with and for electrically energising the impeding arrangement for allowing an electric shock to be administered to an insect while attempting to pass through the impeding arrangement in order to gain access to the bait within the container.

The container may be in the form of any suitable conventional container, preferably being in the form of a metallic, plastic or glass container which may be used in a household. Preferably, the container may have a length, width and depth in the ranges of 5cm to 45cm, 5cm to 45cm and 5cm to 25cm, respectively, preferably being in the region of 23cm, 19cm and 13cm, respectively. It is to be appreciated that although dimensions of the container have been provided, the exact dimensions of the container are not limited to the dimensions mentioned.

The container may include an additional opening defined in a side wall thereof, which additional opening may serve to allow a user to replace the bait without the need to dismount or remove the impeding arrangement from the container. A hinged door or drawer arrangement may be mounted within the additional opening for facilitating removal and replacement of the bait when necessary.

A safety mechanism may be provided for de-energising the impeding arrangement when the impeding arrangement is dismounted from the container or when a user is replacing the bait. Preferably, the safety mechanism may be configured to de-energise the impeding arrangement, typically by disconnecting the conductors thereof from the energising means, when the hinged door or drawer arrangement are open. Further preferably, the battery may be disconnected from the conductors when the drawer arrangement is displaced out of the additional opening. The drawer arrangement may include a conductor or electrical bridge which may interconnect and permit energising of the conductors when the drawer arrangement is displaced into an operative, closed condition. Typically, open terminals of an electrical circuit between the energising means and the conductors may be located on an inner surface of the container such that when the drawer arrangement is pushed into the closed condition, the electrical bridge comes into contact with and connects the open terminals thereby allowing the conductors to be energised.

The container may include an inner compartment which may be sized, shaped and/or configured to receive the energising means, transformer, switch and/or any associated electronic components therein.

The opening and/or additional opening defined in the container may be located on any one of the walls defining the container, including side and/or top walls.

The mounting arrangement may be in the form of the holding arrangement as hereinbefore described. Preferably, the mounting arrangement may be in the form of a lid for the container. The lid may include an aperture defined therethrough, typically defining a frame-like member. The impeding arrangement may be mounted on the lid to span and/or cover the aperture. Alternatively, an inner region of the container may include receiving apertures defined therein for receiving the conductors complementally therein. The receiving apertures may be defined in opposing inner regions of the container. The receiving apertures in opposing inner regions may be spaced apart from each other along a height of the container, preferably for allowing the conductors of the impeding arrangement to be arranged at an incline. A cleaning arrangement may be provided for allowing a user to clean the impeding arrangement, preferably the conductors thereof. The cleaning arrangement may include a brush. The cleaning arrangement may be mounted on the container. In particular, the cleaning arrangement may be mounted displaceably on the container such that a brush portion thereof may extend through at least a part of an opening in the impeding arrangement and wherein the brush portion is displaceable from one side of the impeding arrangement to the other. The cleaning arrangement may be mounted displaceably on a track which may extend from the container. The track may be defined by an elongate member which may be mounted on the container or the track may be defined in the container wherein the brush portion may include an engaging member which may be sized, shaped and/or configured to permit complementary sliding engagement between the brush portion and the track. The cleaning arrangement may further include a handle extending from a part of the brush for allowing user to displace and/or manipulate the position of the brush between opposing sides of the impeding arrangement, thus permitting cleaning of the conductors thereof. The track may be located inside or outside the container, preferably being located within the container. Preferably, the handle may extend through a slot defined in a side wall of the container for allowing a user to clean the impeding arrangement without dismantling thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

An electric shock device in accordance with the invention will now be described by way of the following, non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In the drawings: -

Figure 1 is a three-dimensional schematic with hidden lines visible and which shows a first embodiment of an electric shock device in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 2 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a sectioned view of the electric shock device shown in Figure 1 ; Figure 3 is a plan view of the electric shock device shown in Figures 1 and 2;

Figure 4 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a partially exploded view of the electric shock device shown in Figures 1 to 3;

Figure 5 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a second embodiment of the electric shock device in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 6 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a partially exploded view of the electric shock device shown in Figure 5;

Figure 7 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a third embodiment of the electric shock device in accordance with the present invention; Figure 8 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a partially exploded view of the electric shock device shown in Figure 7;

Figures 9 and 10 are three-dimensional schematics showing a fourth embodiment of the electric shock device in accordance with the present invention;

Figures 11 and 12 are three-dimensional schematics showing a fifth embodiment of the electric shock device in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 13 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a sectioned view of the electric shock device shown in Figures 11 and 12; and

Figure 14 is a three-dimensional schematic showing a sixth embodiment of the electric shock device in accordance with the present invention

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to Figures 1 to 4, reference numeral 10 refers generally to an electric shock device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the electric shock device 10 includes an electrically conductive impeding arrangement 12 for impeding an insect’s access to bait 14 and an energising means in the form of a battery (not shown) arranged in electrical communication with and for electrically energising the impeding arrangement 12 for allowing an electric shock to be administered to the insect (not shown) while attempting to pass therethrough.

The impeding arrangement 12 defines an aperture 16 which is sized, shaped and configured to ensure contact between the impeding arrangement 12 and the insect (not shown) when the insect (not shown) attempts to pass therethrough. The aperture 16 has a width in the range of 2mm to 6mm, typically being in the region of 4mm. The impeding arrangement 12 includes at least two conductors 18 arranged alongside each other to define the aperture 16, typically the impeding arrangement 12 includes a plurality of conductors 18 so as to define a plurality of apertures 16 for providing multiple locations or points for an insect to attempt to gain access to the bait 14. It is to be appreciated that the impeding arrangement 12 includes any number of conductors 18, the number typically being dependent on the desired size of the impeding arrangement 12. The conductors 18 have an elongate shape, typically being in the form of any one of the group including, but not limited to, wires, rods, and bars, which are manufactured from any suitable conventional metallic material. The conductors 18 have a thickness in the range of 1mm to 8mm, typically being in the region of 2mm. The impeding arrangement 12 has a generally flat shape, typically for allowing placement thereof over an opening 20 in a receptacle which is in the form of any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a container, bowl, mug, glass, dish, and the like, typically being in the form of a container 22 as shown in the Figures. It is to be appreciated that such a container 22 typically includes a base 24 and side walls 26 extending from the base 24 to define a receiving zone for receiving a food article or bait 14 therein. The container 22 is in the form of any suitable conventional container, typically being in the form of a metallic, plastic or glass container which is used in a household. Typically, the container 22 has a length, width and depth in the ranges of 5cm to 45cm, 5cm to 45cm and 5cm to 25cm, respectively, typically being in the region of 23cm, 19cm and 13cm, respectively. It is to be appreciated that although dimensions of the container 22 have been provided, the exact dimensions of the container 22 are not limited to the dimensions mentioned. Alternatively, and although not shown in the Figures, the impeding arrangement 12 can have a generally curved or shell shape, typically for allowing the impeding arrangement 12 to be placed over and substantially cover bait 14 for the insect which is resting on a generally flat surface including a surface defined by a plate or large dish, for example.

The conductors 18 are arranged adjacent and generally parallel each other, typically so as to define a generally flat, grid-like structure 30. An outer profile of the grid-like structure 30 is of any suitable conventional geometric shape. Adjacent conductors 18 are spaced apart and disconnected from each other for inhibiting the flow of electric current therebetween in an inoperative condition. Typically, the adjacent conductors 18 are oppositely charged so that when the insect attempts to pass through the aperture 16 between adjacent conductors 18, the oppositely charged conductors discharge and administer a shock to the insect. It is to be appreciated that the insect typically serves to connect adjacent conductors 18 which causes electrical current to flow through the insect. It is to be appreciated further that in such a configuration, the impeding arrangement 12 behaves similarly to a capacitor, in that consumption of power when insects are not in contact therewith is minimised.

A discharge means (not shown) is provided for discharging the electric charge between the oppositely charged conductors 18 for allowing a user (not shown) to handle the impeding arrangement 12 without being shocked, typically when the impeding arrangement 12 requires cleaning. The discharge means (not shown) be in the form of a short circuit switch arrangement (not shown) that connects each of the adjacent conductors 18 when a user wishes to handle the impeding arrangement 12. Alternatively, and although not shown in the Figures, the discharge means (not shown) can be in the form of a metallic member (not shown) or rod having an insulated handle (not shown) for allowing a user to connect the adjacent conductors 18 and allow discharging thereof. Further alternatively, and in a preferred embodiment, the discharge means (not shown) forms part of circuitry (not shown) connected between conductors 18 of the impeding arrangement 12, and is configured to operate automatically upon de-energising the impeding arrangement 12.

The battery (not shown) has a voltage in the range of 0.5V to 12V, typically being 3V. Typically, the battery (not shown) is in the form of a pair of 1 .5V AA batteries (not shown). The battery (not shown) is typically rechargeable. In particular, the battery (not shown) is rechargeable via a charging port (not shown) capable of receiving a connector (not shown) of any suitable conventional charging cable (not shown), such as a USB charging cable. Alternatively, and although not shown, the energising means can be in the form of a conventional electrical wall socket, which may supply a voltage in the range of, but not limited to, 220 V to 240V.

A transformer (not shown) is provided for stepping up the voltage provided to the impeding arrangement 12. The transformer (not shown) is in the form of a step-up transformer (not shown) which is configured to step up the voltage supplied to the impeding arrangement 12 to a voltage in the range of 240V to 12 000V, typically being configured to step up the voltage in the range of 2 000V to 6 000V.

A control means (not shown), typically in the form of an electrical switch (not shown), is provided for allowing a user (not shown) to control flow of electrical energy from the battery (not shown) to the impeding arrangement 12, thereby allowing a user (not shown) the capability of activating or deactivating the shock device 10, as desired.

A holding arrangement 32 is provided for holding the conductors 18 together, typically so as to ensure that the size of the apertures 16 defined therebetween are kept constant. The holding arrangement 32 includes receiving apertures (not shown) defined therein for receiving corresponding conductors 18 complementally therein, typically being received in a friction fit manner. The holding arrangement 32 is sized, shaped and configured to surround at least a portion, typically the whole of the impeding arrangement 12 as shown in the Figures, in such a version being in the form of a frame-like member 34 which has a shape which corresponds generally to an outer shape of the impeding arrangement 12.

As shown in the Figures, the holding arrangement 32 is in the form of a lid for a container 22. Typically, an outer region of the holding arrangement 32 is configured to fit on a container 22 in a lid-like fashion, typically so as to position the impeding arrangement 12 across the container’s opening 20.

The holding arrangement 32 is manufactured from any suitable non-conductive or insulative material.

The holding arrangement 32 is configured to serve as a handle for allowing a user to take hold of and carry the impeding arrangement 12 without touching and receiving a shock from the conductors 18.

In an alternative form of the invention, and although not shown in the Figures, a connecting member (not shown) is provided for allowing interconnection between the holding arrangement 32 and an edge portion (not shown) of an opening (not shown) of the container (not shown). The connecting member (not shown) includes a container engaging portion (not shown) which is sized, shaped and configured to permit complemental engagement with the edge portion (not shown) of the container opening (not shown). The connecting member (not shown) further includes a receiving formation (not shown) for receiving the holding arrangement 32 therein, typically complementally, so that the impeding arrangement 12 spans the opening (not shown) of the container (not shown). It is to be appreciated that the holding arrangement 32 can be in the form of a frame (not shown) of an electric swatting device (not shown). The receiving formation (not shown) is in the form of a stepped recess (not shown) which is sized, shaped and configured according to the size, shape and configuration of the holding arrangement 32 to allow the holding arrangement 32 to rest thereon. Alternatively, and also not shown in the Figures, the receiving formation (not shown) is in the form elongate guides (not shown) which extend from the connecting member (not shown), typically on opposing side regions (not shown) of the container opening (not shown), wherein openings (not shown) to the guides (not shown) permit entry of the holding arrangement 32 slidingly therein to allow the holding arrangement 32 and with it, the impeding arrangement 12 to slide over the container opening (not shown) into a connected condition.

A housing 40 is provided for housing the battery (not shown), the transformer (not shown), switch (not shown) and any other electronic components associated therewith.

An inner compartment of the container 22 is sized, shaped and configured to receive the battery (not shown), transformer (not shown), switch (not shown) and any associated electronic components (not shown) therein, typically being sized to receive the housing 40 therein.

The insect (not shown) can be in the form of any conventional insect pests including but not limited to flies, mosquitos, wasps and ants.

The bait 14 can be in the form of any conventional food item. Typically, the bait 14 is chosen depending on the type of insect pest a user wishes to attract. Further typically, the bait 14 is in the form of a conventional household food item. It is to be appreciated that the inventor intends the bait 14 to be a bit of food which is currently being cooked, for example a piece of heated meat. As such, the inventor believes it to be advantageous in that a user would not be required to purchase a specific type of bait as it would be possible to break or cut off a piece of food being cooked and use same as the bait.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided an insect shocking device including a container 22 for receiving bait 14 therein, a conductive impeding arrangement 12 as hereinbefore described, a mounting arrangement in the form of a holding arrangement 32 as hereinbefore described for mounting the impeding arrangement 12 on the container 22 so as to allow the impeding arrangement 12 to substantially cover an opening 20 of the container 22, and an energising means in the form of a battery arranged in electrical communication with and for electrically energising the impeding arrangement 12 for allowing an electric shock to be administered to an insect (not shown) while attempting to pass through the impeding arrangement 12 in order to gain access to the bait 14 within the container 22.

Referring to Figures 5 and 6, reference numeral 110 refers generally to an electric shock device in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, container 122 includes an additional opening 144 defined in a side wall thereof, which additional opening 144 serves to allow a user to replace the bait 114 without the need to dismount or remove the impeding arrangement 112 from the container 122. A drawer arrangement 146 is mounted within the additional opening 144 for facilitating removal and replacement of the bait 114 when necessary. Referring to Figures 7 and 8, reference numeral 210 refers generally to an electric shock device in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the impeding arrangement 212 is in the form of a plurality of conductive members 218 which are defined by a single elongate member having sufficient length to be bent a number of times to form generally straight elongate portions 248 which are interconnected by a plurality of loops 250. It is to be appreciated that the shock to the insect is a result of a short circuit between the conductors.

Referring to Figures 9 and 10, reference numeral 310 refers generally to an electric shock device in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, a spacer element 352 extends from the holding arrangement 332 for spacing the holding arrangement 332 and with it, the impeding arrangement 312 from a surface 354 on which bait 314 has been placed. The spacer element 352 is in form of a wall which is sized, shaped and configured to define an enclosure 356 when placed on the surface 354, the enclosure 356 typically having the bait 314 therein. It is to be appreciated that when bait 314 is placed on a generally flat surface, such as on a plate for example, a user would place the spacer element 352 and with it, the holding arrangement 332 and impeding arrangement 312, over the bait 314 so that the only route to the bait 314 is via the apertures 316 in the impeding arrangement 312.

Referring to Figures 11 to 13, reference numeral 410 refers generally to an electric shock device in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, container 422 includes an additional opening 444 defined in a side wall thereof, which additional opening 444 serves to allow a user to replace the bait 414 without the need to dismount or remove the impeding arrangement 412 from the container 422. A hinged door 458 is mounted within the additional opening 444 for facilitating removal and replacement of the bait 414 when necessary.

Further, a safety member in the form of a barrier 460 is provided for reducing the likelihood of a shock being administered to a user when handling the electric shock device 410. The barrier 466 is spaced apart from the impeding arrangement 412 a distance in the region of 4cm. The barrier 460 is mounted on the container 422 such that the barrier 460 spans across the container opening 420. Floles 462 are defined in the barrier 460 for allowing passage of insects therethrough. The holes 462 are sized and shaped so as to allow insects (not shown) to pass therethrough and inhibit passage of a finger (not shown) of a user.

Referring to Figure 14, reference numeral 510 refers generally to an electric shock device in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, container 522 includes an additional opening 544 defined in a side wall 526 thereof, which additional opening 544 serves to allow a user to replace the bait (not shown) without the need to dismount or remove the impeding arrangement 512 from the container 522. A drawer arrangement 546 is mounted within the additional opening 544 for facilitating removal and replacement of the bait (not shown) when necessary. Also in this embodiment, housing 540 is mounted on the outside of container 522.

Further, an inner region of the container 522 includes receiving apertures (not shown) defined therein for receiving the conductors 518 complementally therein. The receiving apertures (not shown) are defined in opposing inner regions of the container 522 towards an operatively upper end region thereof.

A cleaning arrangement (not shown) is provided for allowing a user to clean conductors 518 of the impeding arrangement 512. The cleaning arrangement (not shown) typically includes a brush (not shown). The cleaning arrangement (not shown) is mounted on the container 522. In particular, the cleaning arrangement (not shown) is mounted displaceably on the container 522 such that a brush portion (not shown) thereof extend through at least a part of an opening 516 between the conductors 518 of the impeding arrangement 512 and wherein the brush portion (not shown) is displaceable from one side of the impeding arrangement 512 to the other. The cleaning arrangement (not shown) is mounted displaceably on a track (not shown) which extend from the container 522. The track (not shown) defined by an elongate member (not shown) which is mounted on the container 522 or the track (not shown) defined in the container 522 wherein the brush portion (not shown) includes an engaging member (not shown) which is sized, shaped and configured to permit complementary sliding engagement between the brush portion (not shown) and the track (not shown). The cleaning arrangement (not shown) further includes a handle (not shown) extending from a part of the brush (not shown) for allowing user to displace and manipulate the position of the brush (not shown) between opposing sides of the impeding arrangement 512, thus permitting cleaning of the conductors 518 thereof. The track (not shown) is located inside or outside the container, typically being located within the container. Typically, the handle (not shown) extends through a slot 564 defined in a side wall 526 of the container for allowing a user to clean the impeding arrangement 512 without dismantling thereof. It is, of course, to be appreciated that the electric shock device in accordance with the invention is not limited to the precise constructional and functional details as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings and which may be varied as desired.

Although only certain embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be understood by any person skilled in the art that other modifications, variations, and possibilities of the invention are possible. Such modifications, variations and possibilities are therefore to be considered as falling within the spirit and scope of the invention and hence form part of the invention as herein described and/or exemplified. It is further to be understood that the examples are provided for illustrating the invention further and to assist a person skilled in the art with understanding the invention and is not meant to be construed as unduly limiting the reasonable scope of the invention.

The inventor believes that the electric shock device in accordance with the present invention is advantageous in that it alleviates the need to pursue insects with a swatter, the bait is easily replaceable, and once shocked, an insect falls into the container which is cleaned easily. The invention alleviates the necessity to pick up dead insects off the floor and to clean surfaces after swatting. The invention is believed to provide a clean and efficient means to attract insects away from food being prepared or served and kill the insects.

Claims

1 . An electric shock device including: - an electrically conductive impeding arrangement for impeding an insect’s access to bait; and an energising means arranged in electrical communication with and for electrically energising the impeding arrangement for allowing an electric shock to be administered to the insect while attempting to pass therethrough.

2. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the impeding arrangement defines an opening which is sized, shaped and configured to ensure contact between the impeding arrangement and the insect when the insect attempts to pass therethrough.

3. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 2 wherein the opening has a width in the range of 2mm to 6mm.

4. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 2 or 3 wherein the impeding arrangement includes at least two conductors arranged alongside each other to define the opening.

5. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the impeding arrangement includes a plurality of conductors so as to define a plurality of openings for providing multiple locations or points for an insect to attempt to gain access to the bait.

6. An electric shock device as claimed in 4 or 5 wherein the conductors have an elongate shape.

7. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 4 to 6 wherein the conductors are in the form of any of the group including, but not limited to, wires, rods, and bars, which are manufactured from any suitable conventional metallic material.

8. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 4 to 7 wherein the conductors have a thickness in the range of 1 mm to 8mm.

9. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the impeding arrangement has a generally flat shape for allowing placement thereof over an opening in a receptacle which is in the form of any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a container, bowl, mug, glass, dish, and the like.

10. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the impeding arrangement has a generally curved shape for allowing the impeding arrangement to be placed over and substantially cover bait for the insect which is resting on a generally flat surface.

11. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 4 to 10 wherein the conductors are arranged adjacent each other so as to define a grid-like structure.

12. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 4 to 11 wherein the conductors are connected to each other in any manner of the group including in series, in parallel, and a combination thereof.

13. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 4 to 5 wherein adjacent conductors are spaced apart and disconnected from each other for inhibiting the flow of electric current therebetween in an inoperative condition.

14. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 13 wherein the adjacent conductors are oppositely charged so that when the insect attempts to pass through the opening between adjacent conductors, the oppositely charged conductors discharge and administer a shock to the insect.

15. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 14 wherein a discharge means is provided for discharging the electric charge between the oppositely charged conductors for allowing a user to handle the impeding arrangement without being shocked.

16. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 15 wherein the discharge means be in the form of a short circuit switch arrangement that connects each of the adjacent conductors when a user wishes to handle the impeding arrangement.

17. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 15 wherein the discharge means forms part of circuitry connected between the conductors of the impeding arrangement and is configured to operate automatically upon de-energising the impeding arrangement.

18. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 4 to 17 wherein the plurality of conductive members are defined by a single elongate member having sufficient length to be bent a number of times to form generally straight elongate portions which are interconnected by a plurality of loops.

19. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the energising means is in the form of a battery.

20. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 19 wherein the battery has a voltage in the range of 0.5V to 12V.

21 . An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the energising means is in the form of a conventional electrical wall socket which supplies a voltage in the range of, but not limited to, 220V to 240V.

22. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a transformer is provided for stepping up the voltage provided to the impeding arrangement.

23. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 22 wherein the transformer is in the form of a step-up transformer which is configured to step up the voltage supplied to the impeding arrangement to a voltage in the region of 240V to 2 400V.

24. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a control means is provided for allowing a user to control flow of energy from the energising means to the impeding arrangement, thereby allowing a user the capability of activating or deactivating the shock device, as desired.

25. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a holding arrangement is provided for holding the conductors together so as to ensure that the size of the openings defined therebetween are kept constant.

26. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 25 wherein the holding arrangement includes receiving apertures defined therein for receiving corresponding conductors complementally therein.

27. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 25 or 26 wherein the holding arrangement is sized, shaped and configured to surround at least a portion of the impeding arrangement.

28. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 25 to 27 wherein the holding arrangement is in the form of a frame-like member which has a shape which corresponds generally to an outer shape of the impeding arrangement.

29. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 25 to 28 wherein the holding arrangement is in the form of a lid for a container.

30. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 25 to 28 wherein an outer region of the holding arrangement is configured to fit on a container in a lid-like fashion so as to position the impeding arrangement across an opening of the container.

31. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 25 to 27 wherein a spacer element extends from the holding arrangement for spacing the holding arrangement and with it, the impeding arrangement from a surface on which bait has been placed.

32. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 31 wherein the spacer element is in form of a wall which is sized, shaped and configured to define an enclosure when placed on the surface.

33. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 25 to 32 wherein the holding arrangement is manufactured from any suitable non-conductive or insulative material.

34. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 25 to 33 wherein the holding arrangement is configured to serve as a handle for allowing a user to take hold of or carry the impeding arrangement without touching and receiving a shock from the conductors.

35. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a connecting member is provided for allowing interconnection between the holding arrangement and an edge portion of an opening of the container.

36. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 35 wherein the connecting member includes a container engaging portion which is sized, shaped and configured to permit complemental engagement with the edge portion of the container opening.

37. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 35 or 36 wherein the connecting member further includes a receiving formation for receiving the holding arrangement therein so that the impeding arrangement spans the opening of the container.

38. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 37 wherein the receiving formation is in the form of a stepped recess which is sized, shaped and configured according to the size, shape and configuration of the holding arrangement to allow the holding arrangement to rest thereon.

39. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 37 wherein the receiving formation is in the form elongate guides which extend from the connecting member wherein openings to the guides permit entry of the holding arrangement slidingly therein to allow the holding arrangement and with it, the impeding arrangement to slide over the container opening into a connected condition.

40. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a housing is provided for housing the energising means, the transformer, control means and any other electronic components associated therewith.

41. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the insect is in the form of any conventional insect pests including but not limited to flies, mosquitos, wasps, and ants.

42. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a safety member is provided for reducing the likelihood of a shock being administered to a user when handling the electric shock device.

43. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 42 wherein the safety member is in the form of a barrier which is spaced apart from the impeding arrangement a distance in the range of 2cm to 10cm.

44. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 43 wherein the barrier is mounted on the container such that the barrier spans across the container opening.

45. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 43 or 44 wherein holes are defined in the barrier for allowing passage of insects therethrough.

46. An electric shock device as claimed in claim 45 wherein the holes are sized and shaped so as to allow insects to pass therethrough and inhibit passage of a finger of a user.

47. An electric shock device as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a cleaning arrangement is provided for allowing a user to clean the impeding arrangement.

48. An insect shocking device including: - a container for receiving bait therein; a conductive impeding arrangement as hereinbefore described; a mounting arrangement for mounting the impeding arrangement on the container so as to allow the impeding arrangement to substantially cover an opening of the container; and an energising means arranged in electrical communication with and for electrically energising the impeding arrangement for allowing an electric shock to be administered to an insect while attempting to pass through the impeding arrangement in order to gain access to the bait within the container.

49. An insect shocking device as claimed in claim 48 wherein the container is in the form of a metallic, plastic or glass container which is used in a household.

50. An insect shocking device as claimed in claim 48 or 49 wherein the container includes an additional opening defined in a side wall thereof, which additional opening serves to allow a user to replace the bait without the need to dismount or remove the impeding arrangement from the container.

51 . An insect shocking device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 48 to 50 wherein a hinged door is mounted within the additional opening for facilitating removal and replacement of the bait when necessary.

52. An insect shocking device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 48 to 50 wherein a drawer arrangement is mounted within the additional opening for facilitating removal and replacement of the bait when necessary.

53. An insect shocking device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 48 to 52 wherein the container includes an inner compartment which is sized, shaped and configured to receive the energising means, transformer, switch and any associated electronic components therein.

54. An insect shocking device as claimed in any one or more of the claims 48 to 53 wherein the mounting arrangement is in the form of the holding arrangement as hereinbefore described.

55. An insect shocking device as claimed in claim 54 wherein the mounting arrangement is in the form of a lid for the container.

56. An insect shocking device as claimed in claim 55 wherein the lid includes an aperture defined therethrough, typically defining a frame-like member.

57. An insect shocking device as claimed in claim 56 wherein the impeding arrangement is mounted on the lid to span and cover the aperture.