Patent Publication Number: US-2009223115-A1

Title: Bed bug monitor

Description:
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/511,851 filed on Aug. 28, 2006 which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/712,340 filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on Aug. 30, 2005. The entire disclosure of both Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/712,340 and application Ser. No. 11/511,851 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
     The invention relates to an insect monitoring and trapping device. The device is particularly suited for monitoring and trapping bed bugs. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
     Bed bugs are small insects that feed solely on the blood of animals. The common bed bug,  Cimex Lectularus,  is the species of bed bug that has most adapted to living with humans. Bed bugs have lived with humans since ancient times, although many people living in the United States have never seen a bed bug. However, the increase of international travel in recent decades has contributed to the resurgence of bed bugs in the United States. There are many aspects of bed bugs that make it difficult to eradicate them once they have established a presence in a location. 
     Adult bed bugs are about ¼ inch or about 6 millimeters long, 5-6 millimeters wide, and reddish-brown with oval, flattened bodies. The immature nymphs are similar in appearance to the adults but smaller and lighter in color. Bed bugs do not fly, but they can move very quickly over surfaces. Female bed bugs lay their eggs in secluded areas and can deposit up to five eggs per day, and as many as 500 during a lifetime. The bed bug eggs are very small, about the size of a dust spec. When first laid, the eggs are sticky causing them to adhere to surfaces. 
     Bed bugs can go long periods of time without feeding. Nymphs can survive months without feeding and the adults for more than a year. Infestations are therefore not likely to be eliminated by leaving a location unoccupied. 
     Bed bugs are active during the nighttime and primarily hide during the daytime into tiny crevices or cracks. Bed bugs may find easy hiding places in beds, bed frames, furniture, along baseboards, in carpeting, and countless other places. Bed bugs tend to congregate but do not build nests like some other insects. 
     Bed bugs obtain their sustenance by drawing blood through an elongated beak. They may feed on a human for 3 to 10 minutes although the person is not likely to feel the bite. After the bite, the victim often experiences an itchy welt or swelling in the area of the bite. However, some people do not have any reaction or only a very small reaction to a bed bug bite. Bed bug bites have symptoms that are similar to other insect bites, such as mosquitoes and ticks. It is not possible to determine whether the bite is from a bed bug or another type of insect without actually observing the bed bug. As a result, bed bug infestations may go long periods without being detected. 
     Bed bug infestations originate by a bed bug being carried into a new area. Bed bugs are able to cling to possessions and hide in small spaces so that they may easily be transported in a traveler&#39;s belongings. As a result, buildings where turnover of occupants is high, such as hotels or apartments, are especially vulnerable to bed bug infestations. 
     Because of all the features of bed bugs described herein, bed bugs are difficult to eradicate. Professional pest removal specialists and pesticides are needed. It is necessary to remove all clutter and unnecessary objects from a room, remove bed bugs and eggs as much as possible through vacuuming, and apply pesticides to likely hiding areas. This type of treatment for eradication can be disruptive to a business such as a hotel. As a result, it is very desirable to detect bed bugs at the earliest possible moment before an infestation becomes established. 
     The tiny, mobile and secretive behavior of bed bugs makes it nearly impossible to prevent an infestation. However, the earliest possible detection can make it possible to eradicate the insects most easily. Devices and methods for the early detection of bed bugs are needed especially by those in the hospitality industries. 
     SUMMARY  
     An insect monitoring and trapping device is provided according to the invention. The device includes a corrugated layer for a first glueboard. The corrugated layer forms alternating ridges and grooves. The first glueboard is attached to the ridges of the corrugated layer, and is configured to immobilize insects. 
     An alternative embodiment of an insect monitoring and trapping device is provided according to the invention. The device includes a base and a lid for covering the base, and is constructed to provide a trap interior and an insect opening for insects to access the trap interior. The device includes a heating device provided within the trap interior for attracting insects, and an adhesive surface provided within the trap for trapping insects. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a bed bug monitor according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of a cardboard and glueboard component of the bed bug monitor of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a bed bug monitor according to a second embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded view of the bed bug monitor of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the base of the bed bug monitor of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 6  is a view of the lid of the bed bug monitor of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 7  is a side exploded view of the bed bug monitor of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a pad of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a glueboard of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a portion of a bed bug monitor containing a chemical heat source. 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a portion of a bed bug monitor containing an electrical heat source. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a cover for use with the portions of the bed bug monitor shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of an underside corner of the cover of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is a partial, perspective view of a bed bug monitor. 
         FIG. 15  is a functional block diagram of an automatic pest control report generation with additional trap parameter data system. 
         FIG. 16  is a schematic diagram of the report generation process of the system of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17   a  illustrates a perspective view of an insect monitor having an electrode grid (and the cover partially removed) constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17   b  illustrates a perspective view of the monitor of  FIG. 17   a  with the cover of the insect monitor in place. 
         FIG. 17   c  schematically illustrates a functional block diagram of the insect monitor of  FIG. 17   a  constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. 
         FIGS. 18   a  and  18   b  illustrate first and second embodiments of the electrodes of the capacitive detector. 
         FIG. 19   a  schematically illustrates a functional block diagram of the capacitive detector  700  wherein the device includes a microprocessor. 
         FIG. 19   b  schematically illustrates a functional block diagram of the capacitive detector  700 ′ wherein the device does not include a microprocessor. 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a preferred embodiment capacitive sensing circuit which may be employed in connection with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
     The present invention serves to detect bed bugs in a location at the earliest possible time after their arrival, so that early extermination efforts may be undertaken. In the hospitality industry, even one encounter by a customer or member of the public with a bed bug leads to a low level of customer satisfaction and the possibility of a negative reputation in the community. The early monitoring and detection of bed bugs can help to reduce the possibilities of these negative effects. 
     The present invention is a bed bug monitor that attracts bed bugs, and retains the bed bugs or records their passage through the trap. 
     A bed bug monitor of the present invention can include two basic aspects: an attractant and a retention or recording mechanism detection, and placement. In designing a monitor, it is also important to consider how the presence of bed bugs in the monitor will be detected and where the monitor will be placed. Each of these aspects of a bed bug monitor will be discussed in detail with examples provided for how the goals of each component will be accomplished. 
     Attractant Mechanisms 
     An attractant mechanism is desirable for use in a bed bug monitor because it increases the likelihood that a bed bug will encounter the monitor. This in turn increases the probability of early detection of a bed bug infestation. 
     Pheromone 
     One example of an attractant is an aggregation or arrestant pheromone. A pheromone may be in gel form, in solid form, or impregnated into another materials. Examples of materials into which a pheromone may be impregnated may include cardboard, plastic, or an adhesive board. A pheromone may also be incorporated into an absorbent pad. 
     Suitable woven and nonwoven materials for an absorbent pad include natural fibers (e.g., wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers such as polyolefins (e.g., polyethylene and polypropylene), polyesters, polyamides, and synthetic cellulosics (e.g., RAYON™ material), or from a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. Such synthetic fibers can be manufactured using known processes such as carded, spunbond, meltblown, airlaid, needle punched and the like. For example, the absorbent material may include cotton batting, fiberized cellulose wood pulp, synthetic batting, polyester batting, felt, bonded carded webs, high loft spunbond materials, and commingled cellulose wood pulp and polypropylene materials. Some examples of acceptable absorbent materials are described in Published US Patent Application US-20030127108, which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     In one alternative, the pad may include both an absorbent material and a cover including materials like spunbonded nonwoven material, apertured formed thermoplastic film, hydroformed thermoplastic film, porous foams and thermoplastic scrims. 
     One benefit of using a cover is that it may allow a liquid chemical attractant, such as a pheromone, pheromone to pass through it and be absorbed into the pad. The active pheromone composition is often suspended in a liquid solvent, which can then be evaporated away using heat or dry air, etc, leaving only the pheromone chemicals. The pheromone chemicals are then embedded within the pad, and protected by the pads cover. This arrangement will reduce the likelihood that when insects walk on the pad, the pheromones are carried away with them. The pheromones stay in the pad extending attraction efficacy. 
     Any of these pad materials may include a chemical attractant to lure insects to the station. Many different types of chemical attractants are known including food based attractants and pheromones. 
     Food Attractants 
     Food type attractants may be used and may be in the form of liquid gel or in a solid form. For bed bugs, food type attractants simulate human odors. 
     Tactile Cues 
     Bed bugs are attracted to materials with a rough surface texture and surface porosity. For example, bed bugs are more likely to congregate on wood or cardboard than on smooth plastic material. Examples of materials that may be incorporated into the bed bug monitor to attract the bed bugs include wood, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, cotton, or wallpaper. 
     Laboratory tests were performed to compare the attractantcy to bed bugs of five materials: a dome trap made of a plastic materials manufactured by Trece Incorporated, a roll of cotton fabric with a paperclip used to hold it flat, a block of wood from a headboard with three holes drilled into it, a stainless steel plate and cardboard. The headboard block attracted significantly more bed bugs than any other material. The cardboard material attracted significantly more bed bugs than the remaining three materials. 
     One possible reason for the attractants of the bed bugs to the wood and cardboard material could be that their rougher surface makes it easier for the bed bugs to move and have traction on the surface. Another possibility is that materials such as wood are often found near food sources, such as bed frame being in close proximity to a human. 
     Cardboard may be especially useful as an attractant mechanism in a bed bug monitor because it is lightweight, economical to manufacture, and degrades more easily than wood after disposal. Corrugated cardboard usually consists of two sheets of smooth cardboard liner material sandwiching a fluted cardboard layer. Corrugated cardboard may be especially attractive to bed bugs because it provides both roughness and small crevices in which the bed bugs may insinuate themselves. Because bed bugs are about 5 to 6 millimeters in width, corrugated cardboard with fluting that has a peak-to-peak distance of about 6 to 7 millimeters may be desirable. 
     Materials with a low heat transfer rate are also desirable for bed bugs and provide an attractant mechanism for the trap. 
     Vibration is another possible tactile cue that attracts bed bugs. It is possible that blood coursing through the veins of a human creates a vibration sensation that is detectable to bed bugs. As a result, vibration can serve as an attractant mechanism in a bed bug monitor. 
     Heat is another example of a tactile cue that attracts bed bugs. Heat may be provided in a bed bug monitor in many different ways. Enclosed structures such as capsules that facilitate an acid base reaction may be used to provide heat. For example, calcium hydroxide capsules are commercially available to provide heat upon demand. The heat can be provided as radiant heat or infrared heat. 
     Humidity is another example of a tactile cue that attracts bed bugs. Humidity may be provided in a bed bug monitor by providing an absorbent pad, such as one of the types described above, with moisture incorporated into the pad. 
     Olfactory Attractants 
     Bed bugs may find their food sources by detecting components of breath, perspiration, hair or skin oil. The following components of human breath can serve as an attractant mechanism in a bed bug monitor: carbon dioxide, methanol, methane, Furan, and Pyridine. 
     The following components of human perspiration can be used as attractant mechanisms in bed bug monitors: lactic acid, butyric acid, octenol, indole, 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, geranyl acetone, 1-dodecanol, 3-methyl-1-butanol, carboxylic acids, and urea. Sebum is a component of skin oil that can be used as an attractant. 
     Retention 
     An aspect of a bed bug monitor is the ability to retain or trap a bed bug or otherwise record the bed bugs presence. Some examples of detection mechanisms that do not involve retention of the bed bug will be discussed in more detail herein. However, generally the simplest method for determining whether a bed bug has been present at the trap is retaining the bed bug. 
     A glueboard covered with an adhesive that retains a bed bug on the glueboard may be used. Glue boards are commonly used in the insect control industry and are available from many commercial sources, such as Atlantic Paste and glue in Brooklyn, N.Y. Another example is a reservoir of oil that will trap insects, a gel or other substance that the insects will stick to, a toxicant strip of plastic impregnated with an insecticide, or an insecticide compound such as a dust or in another form. 
     As mentioned above, passive systems are possible that detect the presence of a bed bug but do not retain the bed bug. For example, a chemical detection mechanism may be used to detect a chemical that is present on the bed bug&#39;s body or feces. A surface in the monitor can have a chemical that will change color when such a color is detected. Also, a sophisticated chemical sniffers have also been developed that can detect the presence of certain chemicals in the air. 
     Electronic sensors are also available that do not trap insects. One example of this type of sensor is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,937,156, titled, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CAPACITIVELY SENSING PESTS, issued Aug. 30, 2005, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. A sensor as described in that patent may be positioned within a bed bug monitor. 
     The present invention provides for a method and apparatus for capacitively sensing one or more pests and counting the number of sensed pests. In embodiments constructed in accordance with the principles of the invention, the detector may be employed as either a passive detector and/or as a part of a combined detector and trap. The detector may be used alone or can be used in connection with other devices as part of a report generation system, and also can include the ability to provide additional data on the pests that are detected and/or trapped. Further information may also be logged including movement of the trap, time and date, temperature, light intensity (e.g., day, night, etc.), among other parameters. 
     The sensor system includes at least two sensor electrodes and a capacitance sensing circuit. As a non-capacitive object (e.g., a pest) approaches the sensor electrodes, then the capacitance of the sensor electrodes increases due to the object having a higher dielectric constant than air. However, the approach of a capacitive object will also be sensed by the detector since it forms a counter electrode and has the effect of decreasing the separation between the electrodes. A capacitance sensing circuit detects the increased capacitance and provides an output signal that a pest has entered the area being monitored. The capacitance sensing circuit may also be constructed to measure the change in the electrode in order to determine the size and/or type of pest based on a predetermined characteristic change. Such changes may be determined by experiment and observation. 
     As noted above, the present invention may be employed as a stand alone detector or as a combined detector and trap. Further, the present invention can be used by itself or can be utilized in a larger detection and trapping environment. Accordingly, a detailed discussion of the capacitive pest sensor method and apparatus will now be deferred pending a discussion of an automatic pest trap report generation and additional trap parameter data logging environment in which the present invention may be employed. 
     Automatic Pest Trap Report Generation and Additional Trap Parameter Data Logging Environment 
     The automatic pest trap report generation and additional trap parameter data logging environment system may include a variety of styles of activity sensing pest devices within a single facility (e.g., for trapping or sensing any type of animal, rodent, fly or insect) and utilizing a single reporting database; include individual styles of activity sensing pest devices in different reporting databases for the same facility; and/or include a single type of activity sensing pest devices in one or more reporting databases. In each case, the principles apply to an automatic, real-time reporting system for a plurality of activity sensing pest devices (e.g., traps and/or pest presence monitors), with manual input means for providing additional data on both the pest trap and pest monitor parameters based on physical inspection. A reporting database collects the data and provides reports on the resulting combined data. The system reports have greater utility, improve time, costs and efficiencies associated with inspection of the traps, and improves pest control. 
     First referring to  FIG. 15 , a functional block diagram of the automatic pest report generation system and additional pest trap and pest monitor parameter data is provided. The system is shown generally by the designation  210 . A plurality of activity sensing pest devices are shown at the designation  211 . Any number of “N” activity sensing pest devices  211  may be utilized in connection with the present invention. In the case of traps, each of the N traps  211  include a pest enclosing, retaining or killing device (best seen in  FIG. 17   c  discussed further below). One or more of the activity sensing pest devices  211  can also take the form of a passive or active pest monitor—which monitor may or may not include a trapping device. A pest sensor  212 , a physical inspection data entry device  213 , and a communication block  214  are also provided. 
     Pest sensor  212  may take a number of forms, but in each form generally monitors pest activity in and/or about the trap  211 . Examples of the pest sensor  212  include a switch or mercury switch (for monitoring movement of the trap), a capacitance device (for monitoring a pest altering the capacitance of a grid), a current monitoring device (for detecting current spikes in a destructive or electrocution style trap), or light extinction of a light source (for monitoring an interrupted beam or laser). The sensor  212  is generally located in or on the pest trap  211 . However, it is possible to also locate the pest sensor  212  adjacent or proximate the trap  211 . It will be appreciated that sensor  212  may be located in an area without a trap being present. In this latter case, the sensor  212  acts as a pest monitor for that area. When pest activity is detected and a pest presence or detection signal is generated by the sensor  212 , the pest presence signal is provided to the communication block  214 . 
     The communication block  214  may take a number of forms. For example, the communication block may communicate over a fixed wire (e.g., to hardwire receiver  221  via optional connection  223 ) or by telephone or cellular phone, it may take advantage of putting signals over existing wiring in a building, or it may utilize over-the-air transmissions designated as  222 . In each of these forms, the communication block  214  operates to pass the pest presence or detection signal—as a pest event—to a receiver  215  (or alternatively directly to local PC  216 ). In one embodiment, an RF type communication device is utilized. In this type of embodiment, the receiver  215  will generally be located relatively close to the transmitter device in communication block  214 . However, the range is affected by, among other factors, the type of RF device used and by the structural characteristics of the facility or area. If appropriate communication schemes are utilized, then the receiver  215  may be located off-site. In a second embodiment, a PDA device  221  is utilized to gather the data. In this case, either a cradle (not shown), an IR based connection; or other connection (shown generally as optional connection  223 ) may be used. 
     Sensor  212  may include a memory device or other data storage to accumulate event data and then pass along a block of information to the communication device. For example, sensor  212  may be constructed to archive pest presence signals in an onboard memory location or in a separate memory device  229 . The later communication of the stored data may occur at set intervals, may be prompted by a polling transaction, or may be physically activated by an inspector via a personal computer, special purpose computing device, or PDA. By storing the data, any number of pest detection events may be transmitted as a block. 
     In one embodiment the sensor may archive event data in the counter block  805 . The counter block  805  can include an electronic memory storage location, and can optionally include a visually perceptible means for displaying the data such as an LCD display or mechanical counter (not shown). The microprocessor block  804  can initiate transmission of the collected data via communications block  807 . This can take the form of a PDA  221  establishing contact with the communications block  807  or take another of the forms identified above. The data can be passed as individual event data or as histograms of the number of events within different time windows. 
     The sensor  212  provides data on the activity sensing pest devices  211  identifier code, the time of the event, and the event itself. However, the PDA  221 , receiver  215  or local computer  216  (discussed below) may provide a date stamp for the received pest event. Unless the context provides otherwise, for convenience it will be assumed that the methodology utilized to transmit the data from the sensor is an RF system. Those skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that other methodologies described herein and equivalents may be employed to implement such communication. 
     Once the event is transmitted to receiver  215 , the data is provided to local computer  216 . Computer  216  may be a special purpose computing device or may be a personal computer (e.g., an IBM compatible computer having a Pentium style chip). The data is in turn provided to remote personal computer  217  over the internet or direct connection  224 . Computer  217  includes a processor  227 , input devices  218  (e.g., keyboard and mouse or other pointing device), video display unit  219 , and a printer  220 . CPU  227  is provided to run a database program stored in memory  226 . The program may also be running from a hard drive, floppy drive, CD-ROM, or from a server or other computer on a network machine. The database  225  is stored in memory  226 . It will be appreciated that the database may also be stored on a local area network server, hard drive, cd-rom drive or other storage device accessible by the CPU  227 . 
     Database  225  stores the event data and includes other database functions, such as relating events to pest trap identification numbers, and generating reports, among others. A number of commercially available relational database programs may be used capable of storing and relating fields in a number of records. A report writing capability is also desirable. The received data from the various activity sensing pest devices  211  must be recognized by the computer  217  and stored in the database  225 . The database  225  can reside on local computer  216  with reports being generated locally and, optionally, transmitted to other computers via a network, extranet or internet. 
     In the database  225 , the activity associated with each activity sensing pest devices  211  may be tracked by the unique ID number. The facility of interest contains any desired number of activity sensing pest devices  211  and the location of the activity sensing pest devices  211  are maintained with the unique ID number to be used in the reporting process. Desirable reports include trap activity data for a specific trap, the activity of traps which have initiated pest presence signals (and other traps which should be visited according to some determined schedule), a summary report with additional trap parameter data added following a physical inspection of the trap(s) and a summary report for each of the traps. 
     In order to provide the feedback information, each activity sensing pest device  211  also preferably includes one or more feedback devices  213  which permit an inspector to provide physical trap and monitor parameter feedback at the actual location of the activity sensing pest devices  211 . This additional data is preferably input to the database  225  running on computer  217  (via the communication block  214  to receiver  215  to local computer  216 ). The feedback device  213  may take the form of one or more buttons; a keypad; a keyboard; one or more dipswitches; an infrared receiver which is configured to interact with a PDA  221  (e.g., of the type sold under the designation Palm Pilot or other personal data device), or any other input device allowing selection among a plurality of parameter ID&#39;s such as those set forth in Table I below. In each case, the device  213  allows an inspector to indicate a particular parameter, from among a predetermined set of parameters. For example, an inspector could indicate that a trap was inspected and no animal was found or that the trap was inspected and an animal was found. Table I includes a representative list of codes which may be utilized by a trap inspector. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE I 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Parameter ID 
                 Parameter Description 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
            
               
                 1 
                 Trap Checked - No activity 
               
               
                 2 
                 Trap Checked - Activity Type 1 Found 
               
               
                 3 
                 Trap Checked - Activity Type 2 Found 
               
               
                 4 
                 Trap Checked - Activity Type 3 Found 
               
               
                 5 
                 Trap Cleaned 
               
               
                 6 
                 Trap Out of Place 
               
               
                 7 
                 Trap Damaged 
               
               
                 8 
                 Light Bulb Replaced 
               
               
                 9 
                 Glueboard Replaced 
               
               
                 10 
                 Cover Opened 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     It will be appreciated that the trap parameter/data is exemplary and other information may be provided. Further, the Parameter ID number is assigned arbitrarily above. In other systems, the parameter ID number may be associated with other trap parameters. 
     The feedback data can alternatively be entered directly into local computer  216  by an operator after physically inspecting the traps. The data might also be temporarily stored during the inspection in a PDA  221  or other special computing device, and subsequently downloaded into computer  216 . In these embodiments, it will be appreciated that the input block  213 , communication block  214  and receiver block  215  may be modified to function properly with the data gathering methodology employed. However, transmission of initial data on pest activity is preferred in order to generate an initial report (for example visits to the appropriate activity sensing pest devices can then be determined). 
     Preferably each activity sensing pest device  211  includes a feedback mechanism  213 . Due to the characteristics of the physical premises, the costs, the benefits from the individual activity sensing pest device  211 , and other factors, one or more of the activity sensing pest devices  211  may not include a feedback sensor  213 . However, in view of the advantages provided by the feedback reporting system as described herein, it will be appreciated that the benefits increase as the amount and quality of the feedback data increases. 
     Once transmitted to the database  225 , the additional parameter data on the activity sensing pest devices is also tracked against the appropriate ID number. This results in a refining of both the data and the resulting reports from database  225 . The activity sensing pest devices reporting becomes a feedback loop as illustrated in  FIG. 16  by the designation  250 . In  FIG. 16  the sensors  212  provide data to summing block  251  and to initial report block  252 . The physical inspection component of the process includes reviewing the initial report(s)  252  and providing additional physical inspection data at block  253 . The physical inspection data can include data on each trap and monitor  211 . However, preferably the data is for a smaller set of traps and monitors, which include those traps and monitors that generated a pest activity event signal and a number or percentage of the remaining traps and monitors of the “n” activity sensing pest devices  211  in the facility that did not show any pest activity. 
     The feedback loop provides data on false positives, disturbed traps, and other factors. The time data corresponding to when the pest activity occurs helps to proactively determine pest infiltration factors and/or information relating to maintaining an optimum pest control plan, such as disturbed traps, etc. 
     The various styles of traps  211  may include a large variety of commercially available traps for trapping any type of animal, such as rodents or insects. Examples of commercially available live animal/rodent traps are the Victor M310 Tin Cat; the Havahart Live Traps; the Kwik Katch Mouse Trap, and the Kness Ketch-All. Examples of commercially available zapping light traps are the Gardner AG2001; the Gardner AG-661 Light Trap, and the Anderson Adhesive Insect Light Trap. Examples of commercially available glueboard light traps are the Ecolab Stealth Unit; the Gardner WS25; the Gardner GT100, and the Anderson Adhesive Insect Light Traps. 
     Capacitive Pest Sensor Method and Apparatus 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 17   a - 17   c,  an insect monitor  800  with electrode grid  801  is illustrated. Capacitive sensing block  803  is operatively attached to the grid  801 . Power block  802  is connected to the capacitive sensing block  803  and to the microprocessor block  804 . Memory block  805  is connected to the microprocessor block  804  (and/or the microprocessor can have its own on board memory; not shown). Switch block  808  is connected to the microprocessor block  804  to provide user feedback input. IR device  806  is provided to enable input and output communication with a PDA  221  or other IR communication device. An RF device  807  may also be connected to microprocessor block  804  to provide RF communication for the monitor  800 . 
     Capacitive sensing block  803  is arranged and configured to detect changes in the capacitive coupling between the electrodes of grid  801 . When an insect enters the monitor  800 , the insect provides capacitive coupling between the electrodes of the grid  801 . The change is sensed by the capacitive sensing chip  803 . The time and date of the event is determined by the microprocessor block  804  and may be stored in memory  805  or can be transmitted directly to a computer  16  via RF device  807 . If the data is stored in memory block  805 , it may be transmitted at a latter time (e.g., in a batch mode) via RF device  807 ; it can be stored for transmission to a PDA device  221  via IR device  806 ; and/or it can be transmitted after additional data is entered at manual input device (switch)  808 . If RF device  807  provides for two way transmission, the information can also be transmitted after a polling transmission by computer  216  (via receiver block  215 ). 
     Prior art devices of this type of monitor are often accomplished by use of glue boards with plastic covers or strategically placed attractants. A limitation of these devices is that a service technician does not have the ability to determine when the activity occurred during the service cycle. The monitor shown in  FIGS. 17   a - 17   c  allows the comparison not only of activity in multiple monitors but also allows technicians to determine if activity occurred at the same time. An additional limitation of traditional monitors is that technicians can report they visited a monitor without actually having visited the monitor. Therefore, the feedback buttons  808  (best seen in  FIG. 17   c ) insure that the monitor was inspected, as well as documenting the inspection process. A further benefit of the monitor  800  of  FIGS. 17   a - 17   c  is that the monitor does not have to immobilize the insect to communicate the activity to the inspector. This benefit allows the database  225  to report on the activity in a facility without causing customers or inspectors to view unsightly insects. 
     Block  809  illustrates an optional trapping option used in connection with the detector. The trap  809  may be a glue board, electrocution grid, passive trap, etc. The detector can include a sensor to sense if a pest has been trapped in order to provide a pest or no pest signal and/or to trigger a signal indicating that the trap should be checked. The output signal can be a visible or audible indicator that is integral to the trap, or a signal that is transmitted to a remote location. Remote signaling may be accomplished via phone, internet, RF signal and other well known transmission schemes. 
       FIGS. 18   a  and  18   b  illustrate first  801 ′ and second  801 ″ embodiments of the electrode grid  801  of  FIG. 17   c  respectively.  FIG. 18   a  illustrates a perimeter design  801 ′ having two parallel lines. In this design, a pest is sensed when it interacts with the electric field associated with the lines. When this occurs, the capacitance changes while the pest is in the proximity of the line(s). This type of design lends itself well to extending about the perimeter of an area to be monitored. However, the lines do not have to extend about the entire perimeter of the area. It will be appreciated that different configurations may be desirable depending on the type of pests being monitored and the physical premises.  FIG. 18   b  illustrates an area design  801 ″ having an interdigitized style electrode grid. Here the capacitance changes when a pest enters the area. The capacitance then stays at approximately the same value as long as the pest remains in the area. If a second pest enters the area (and/or if the first pest leaves the area), then the capacitance changes to a new level and the presence of the pest can again be detected. This type of design lends itself well to monitoring an area. 
     The electrode  801  may be constructed separately out of copper foil or other conductive metal. Alternatively, the electrode  801  may be constructed integrally with a circuit board of the sensor system. 
       FIGS. 19   a  and  19   b  graphically illustrate alternative embodiments in which a microprocessor is utilized ( FIG. 19   a ) and in which a microprocessor is not utilized ( FIG. 19   b ). Turning first to  FIG. 19   a,  a functional block diagram of the capacitive detector  700  is illustrated wherein the device includes a microprocessor substantially as described above in connection with  FIG. 17   c.  However, in  FIG. 19   a,  an address switch  725  for the microprocessor  804 , a battery backup  726  for the real-time clock calendar block  728 , and an additional output port block  727  (preferably an RS-232 or 422 and/or 485 port) are also shown. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the various functional blocks may be generally implemented with commercially available chipsets. The microprocessor block  804  preferably provides processing functionality and includes a processor such as the Microchip PIC16F873. The memory block  805  preferably provides non-volatile memory functions and may be implemented with a serial EEPROM device such as 24LC256 chip manufactured by Microchip. Such device is a CMOS design to provide for low power consumption. The real-time clock calendar block  728  providing time and date capability may be implemented with a serial real time clock/calendar chip such as the PCF8563 CMOS chip manufactured by Philips. The communications block  727  may be implemented with an RS-232 transceiver chip of the type designated MAX3226E manufactured by Maxim. The capacitive sensing circuit block  803  may be implemented with a capacitive sensing circuit manufactured by Quantum Research Group under the designation Qprox QT113. The address switch block  725  for setting a device ID or device addresses may be implemented with any number of switch type devices, including a six-position dip switch. 
     The preferred devices used to implement the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 19   a  collectively provide for a low power device capable of operating for extended periods (e.g., 3-6 months) on a low power voltage source (e.g., three standard AA alkaline batteries). The low power consumption is achieved due to the low quiescent current requirements of the preferred devices for the voltage regulator block  802 , the memory block  805 , the real-time clock/calendar block  728 , and the RS-232 communication block  727 . The microprocessor block  804  also supports low power consumption by utilizing a low power mode. The low power mode includes a sleep command that turns off the oscillator driver. When the oscillator is turned off, then the device may run on a standby current of less than 1 μA. 
     In operation, the microprocessor block  804  initializes by obtaining the device ID from the address switch block  725 . A default date and time are then set. A thirty (30) minute alarm is set in the real time clock (“RTC”) block  728 . Finally, the memory block  805  pointers are set to zero. After initialization the microprocessor block  804  puts itself in the low power mode (i.e., sleep mode) to conserve battery power. The microprocessor block  804  is awakened from sleep mode by any one of three sources: the capacitive pest sensor block  803 ; the RTC block  728 ; or the communications port block  727 . 
     When the capacitive pest sensor block  803  senses a pest, then microprocessor block  804  wakes up from sleep mode and adds one count to the running pest count. The new count value is stored in memory block  805 . The microprocessor block  804  then returns to sleep mode. The microprocessor block  804  wakes up every thirty (30) minutes based on a wake-up call (i.e., an alarm) programmed into the RTC block  728 . The microprocessor block  804  logs the date, time and the current pest count number in the next available memory block  805  space. 
     The microprocessor block  804  also wakes up from input to the communications port block  727 . The communications port can then be used to set the device date and time, read the device date and time, read the device data log of stored pest activity, clear the device data log, and read the device ID dip switch setting. Other parameters may be logged such as light intensity, temperature, movement of the detector, etc. When the communications port block  727  is disconnected, the microprocessor block  804  returns to sleep mode. 
     A software algorithm arbitrates priority of the wake up modes. Input from the capacitive sensing block  803  is the top priority. Data logging of pest activity on alarm intervals is second priority. The lowest priority is given to the communications port block  727 . 
     Another feature of the device is a power-OK or low battery function of the power block  802 . The voltage regulator signals the microprocessor block  804  when a low battery condition exists and a low battery data log entry is made. The RTC block  728  employs a battery back-up circuit such that in the event of a low battery condition, then the current date and time are retained. 
     Turning next to  FIG. 19   b,  an alternative capacitive detector  700 ′ in which a microprocessor is not employed is illustrated. In this embodiment, the capacitive electrode  801  is connected to the capacitive grid  803 . The power block  802  is comprised of a battery and power regulator. Power block  802  is cooperatively connected to the capacitive sensing circuit  803  and the relay output block  701 . Relay output block  701  is also connected to data logging block  702 . This alternative capacitive pest detector  700 ′ utilizes a dry contact relay as an output. The output can be used to signal any number of outboard devices for pest activity. 
     In this alternative design, the capacitive sensing circuit block  803  preferably includes a QProx QT113H chip manufactured by Quantum Research Group. The electrodes  801  are preferably etched directly into the printed circuit board on which the electronics resides. The output of the capacitive sensing circuit block  803  preferably drives an open collector switching transistor  900  (best seen in  FIG. 20 ) to control a single pole single throw (SPST) normally open dry contact reed relay  729 .  FIG. 20  illustrates the manner in which the capacitive sensing circuit block  803 , the battery and power supply regulator block  802  and the relay output block  701  is preferably implemented. It will be appreciated, however, that this preferred schematic is illustrative and other circuits may be used to provide the functionality described for these functional blocks. 
     The data logging block  702  may be implemented with a data logging device manufactured by Omega Engineering under the designation OM-CP-PULSE 101. This device may be cooperatively connected to the relay output block  701  to track pest activity. The data logging block  702  records the activity as well as the time and date of the activity. A communications port (not shown) may be connected to download the logged activity. 
     In operation, when a pest enters the electrode  801  area, the capacitive sensor block  803  triggers the relay block  701  for a time period. In the preferred embodiment, the maximum time period is ten (10) seconds. However, this time period is a function of the capacitive sensor chip used in the preferred embodiment and so other time periods may be used. When the relay block  701  is closed, then the data logging block  702  counts the contact closure. On pre-programmed intervals, the data logging block  702  saves the current count to non-volatile memory internal to the data logging block  702 . Periodically, the information is downloaded to a computer via the communications port (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, the data may be downloaded into a spreadsheet or other programs that can read comma separated files (CSV). 
     Detection 
     Once a bed bug has encountered a bed bug monitor, it is important that this encounter be known to the managers or owners of a location as quickly as possible. The design of the bed bug monitor can facilitate easy and early detection of the presence of bed bugs. 
     Visual inspection of a bed bug monitor is one mechanism for detection. To facilitate visual inspection, a portion of the trap may be easily removable and replaceable, may be transparent, or may be structured so that any bed bugs are readily apparent. 
     However, it is not desirable for bed bugs on the bed bug monitor to be easily viewable by customers within the establishment. This concern may be addressed by the positioning of the bed bug monitor within the room, as discussed further herein. In addition, the design of the bed bug monitor may provide additional concealment of any bed bugs from members of the public who are not trained in how to inspect the monitor. 
     It may also be desirable that housekeeping staff who visit the room on a daily basis are not alerted to the presence of bed bugs. On the other hand, housekeeping staff may be utilized to inspect the monitors on a daily basis to ensure the earliest possible detection. 
     Other examples of detection mechanisms that facilitate the speedy removal of any bed bugs include a light that is activated on the monitor when a bed bug is detected or retained, an electronic signal that is sent from the bed bug monitor to a control panel, or a color change in a material of the trap. An electronic signal may be used to generate a voicemail message or an electronic mail message to alert management to the presence of bed bugs. 
     Placement and Servicing 
     The bed bug monitor can be positioned in a discreet location in a room. For example, the bed bug monitor may be positioned behind a headboard, where it is not likely to be viewed by patrons of the establishment. A pressure sensitive adhesive may be used to secure the bed bug monitor to a hidden surface within the room. Alternatively, a screw, nail or tack may be used to affix the bed bug monitor to a surface. 
     Another possible location for the bed bug monitor is under a box spring or under a mattress. Pressure sensitive adhesive could be used to affix a bed bug monitor in this location. 
     It may be desirable to position the bed bug monitor so that a torturous path to the bed bug monitor is required. With this type of positioning, a hotel guest would be least likely to view the monitor. 
     Many crawling insects prefer to walk along edges, and this behavior may be utilized to direct the bed bugs toward the monitor. The bed bug monitor may be positioned along an edge of a wall or headboard structure, or the monitor itself may incorporate guide walls. 
     Many different configurations for the bed bug monitor are possible so that access openings are defined between guide walls that are sufficiently large to allow the bed bugs to pass through, and sufficiently close to make it likely that a bed bug will encounter a guide wall and follow it to the retention mechanism. Alternatively, guide arms may extend from the bed bug monitor to increase the likelihood that bed bugs will be directed toward the suppression means. Pheromones or other attractants may be placed along the edges of guide arms or guide walls. The bed bug monitor can be positioned on a horizontal surface or a vertical surface or a surface that is neither horizontal nor vertical (e.g., on an incline). 
     EXAMPLES OF CONFIGURATIONS FOR BED BUG MONITORS  
     Examples of bed bug monitors will now be described.  FIG. 1  shows a side view of a bed bug monitor  10  using a fluted cardboard layer  12 . As discussed above, bed bugs are attracted to the rough surface of cardboard. In addition, the fluting of cardboard layer  12  provides crevices for the bed bugs to crawl into. The fluted cardboard layer is sandwiched by a first glueboard  14  and a second glueboard  16  in this embodiment. An adhesive layer  18  and  20  is positioned on each glueboard on the side that contacts the fluted cardboard layer  12 . As a result, when bed bugs crawl into the crevices of the cardboard, they will contact the adhesive layer  18  or  20  and become immobilized. The adhesive layer also serves to secure the glueboards to the fluted cardboard layer. 
     Cardboard liners  22  and  24  sandwich the rest of the construction. Either of the outside surfaces of cardboard liners  22  or  24  may be provided with a pressure sensitive adhesive for adhering the monitor  10  to a surface. Adhesive may be used to secure the cardboard liners to the glueboards. 
       FIG. 2  shows a cardboard liner layer  22  with a glueboard  14  positioned on it. The glueboard  14  includes an adhesive  18  for immobilizing insects. The perimeter portion  26  of the cardboard liner  22  provides an area where a user can grasp the structure without encountering the adhesive  18 . 
     In one alternative example, the bed bug monitor is similar to that of  FIG. 1  but without the cardboard liners  22  and  24 . 
     An additional example embodiment would be to provide the cardboard fluted layer of  FIG. 1  and a single glueboard, leaving one surface of the cardboard fluted layer exposed. In this configuration, one side of the glueboard has an adhesive designed to immobilize insects and this side is adhered to the cardboard fluted layer. The opposite side of the glueboard is provided with a pressure sensitive adhesive for securing the monitor to a surface. Alternatively, no pressure sensitive adhesive is provided on the opposite side of the glueboard and a tack or other attachment mechanism is utilized. Many different permutations of the elements of  FIG. 1  are also possible. 
     The monitor  10  is two inches square in one embodiment. It is also possible to have a monitor of one to three inches square, inclusive, and to have form the monitor in shapes other than squares. 
       FIGS. 3-7  show an alternative example of a bed bug monitor. The bed bug monitor  60  of  FIGS. 3-7  includes two main parts: a base  62  and a cover  66 . The cover  66  may be removed from the base  62  by squeezing the cover to disengage the cover from the halves  68 ,  70 , shown in  FIG. 4 . More detailed information about the structure of the bed bug monitor  60  is available in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/697,705, titled INSECT SUPPRESSION STATION, filed Oct. 29, 2003, which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety. The incorporated patent application describes the structure of  FIGS. 3-7  and how that structure may be used as a suppression station for insects. The structure is also well suited for use as a bed bug monitor because it provides the ability to retain glueboards in recessed areas within the trap. A glueboard may be received in a lower recess within the base  62  or in an upper recess within the cover  66 . 
     Other details of the structure of the monitor  60  are described in the patent application that is incorporated by reference, Ser. No. 10/697,705 and therefore will not be described further. However, certain features of the trap  60  as depicted in the figure can be modified to achieve a slightly different example embodiment that is well suited as a bed bug monitor also. For example, the cover  66  shown in  FIGS. 3-4  may be a flat cover instead of a domed cover. A dome shaped cover is useful for preventing water or other liquid from reaching the insect suppression devices within the monitor, for example when the device is used in kitchens or other areas that may be cleaned by being hosed down. However, since the bed bug monitor is likely to be used in bedroom locations and unlikely to encounter large amounts of water, the flat cover is preferable. The flat cover allows the device to have a lower profile and be less apparent to patrons. 
     The base  62  of the bed bug monitor  60  may be made of a fairly rigid plastic material, such as high impact plastic or ABS plastic, while the lid  66  is made of a plastic that is more flexible than the base  62 . In one embodiment, the base and lid materials are water resistant and/or impact resistant. Some examples of base and lid materials are thermoformed plastics such as high impact polypropylene (HIPP), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Other possible materials include polychlorotrifuorethylene (PCTFE), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). In addition, the station may be formed of non-plastic materials such as cardboard, wax paper board, galvanized metal, aluminum, and wood. 
     A retention device that may be used in the receiving areas  72 ,  74  is a glueboard  154  including adhesive  156  on one surface as shown in  FIG. 9 . Any insects captured on the glueboard  156  within one of the receiving areas  72 ,  74  of the station  60  will not be visible because it is contained within the station  60 . This configuration provides visual evidence of any insect presence, but reduces the likelihood that a customer or other casual observer of the trap will be able to see any captured insects. 
     An example of a device that can be used in either the first receiving area  72 , the second receiving area  74  or both receiving areas is shown in  FIG. 8 . The pad  150  may be a device for attracting, monitoring, trapping or baiting an insect, or it may accomplish any combination of these functions. For example, the pad  150  may be an insect sensor or a glueboard for trapping insects. Alternatively, the pad  150  may include a chemical attractant. The pad  150  may include a portion of insect bait  152 . Examples of changeable pad materials include polystyrene, cardboard or absorbent materials. 
     Now referring to  FIGS. 10-13 , alternative embodiments of an insect monitoring and trapping device are shown at reference number  100 . The insect monitoring and trapping device  100  includes a base  102  and a cover  104  that fit together and provide an insect opening  106  that allows insects to enter into the trap interior  108 . The trap interior  108  can include an adhesive surface  110  and a heating device  112 . The trap interior can additionally include a bait or attractant  114 . The adhesive surface, the heating device, and the bait or attractant can be provided attached to the base  102  or the cover  104  or both. 
     The base  102  includes a peripheral wall  116 . In general, the peripheral wall can include an exterior surface  118  that can be provided at an inclination that allows bugs to travel up the wall exterior surface  118 . The wall exterior surface  118  can be textured to facilitate entry of the insects into the trap. The peripheral wall  116  can include a top edge  120  that can include a series of serrations  122 . It should be understood that the presence of serrations is optional. It is expected that certain types of insects may prefer to climb through the serration valleys  124  rather than over a smooth surface. The peripheral wall  116  includes a wall interior surface  126 . The wall interior surface can be provided as a canted surface  128 . The characterization of the wall interior surface  126  as a canted surface  128  means that the wall extends at an angle of less than 90° from horizontal so that any insects traveling over the top edge  120  may fall directly into the trap interior  108  (wherein the angle is measured to provide a drop from the top edge  120  onto the bottom of the base  102 ). It should be understood that the wall interior surface  126  need not be provided as a canted surface  128 . It is expected that by providing a canted surface  128 , however, there may be advantages to trapping the insects. For example, if an insect is unwilling to step into an adhesive, providing the canted surface  128  may allow for enhanced trapping of insects if the insects fall into the adhesive located below the top edge  120 . A trap containing a peripheral wall  116  having a canted surface  128  can be referred to as a pitfall trap. 
     The adhesive surface  110  can be provided so that it extends up to the peripheral wall  116 . When the peripheral wall includes a wall interior surface  126  that is characterized as a canted surface  128 , the adhesive surface can be provided below the top edge  120  so that insects falling over the top edge  120  contact the adhesive surface  110 . The adhesive surface can be provided as an adhesive covering over the bottom surface of the base  102  or as a glueboard that attaches to the bottom surface of the base  102 . 
     The heating device  112  can be provided as a chemical heating device  130  or as an electrical heating device  132 . The heating device  112  can be constructed so that it provides a temperature sufficient to attract insects. In general, it is believed that certain insects are attracted to temperatures that are similar to human body temperatures. An exemplary temperature range that can be provided as a target temperature range is about 80° F. to about 100° F. as measured at the heating device surface. In the case of the chemical heating device  130 , it is expected that the chemical heating device  130  can be activated and placed in the trap interior  108 . The electrical heating device  132  can be provided as a device powered by an exterior source via the cord  134  or as a device powered by an interior source such as batteries provided within the compartment  136 . 
     The electrical heating device  132  can be provided so that it provides an electrical discharge, on a periodic basis, so that any insect in contact with the electrical heating device  132  becomes electrocuted. The electrocution feature can be provided in addition to heating or, if desired, in place of heating. 
     The device  100  may or may not include a bait or attractant  114 . If the device  100  includes a bait or attractant  114 , the bait or attractant  114  can be provided at various locations. Two exemplary locations for the bait or attractant  114  include on the adhesive surface  110  and on the heating device  112 . Exemplary baits or attractants include those effective for drawing insects, such as bed bugs, into the trap  100  and can include those baits and attractants identified above. 
     The cover  104  can include a stand off  140  that engages a slot  142  on the base  102 . The engagement between the stand off  140  and the slot  142  allows the cover  104  to remain on the base  102  and provide for the insect opening  106 . 
     The devices described herein are especially designed for monitoring a bed bug population. However, the same devices, structures and systems could be used to monitor and track other insect population. For example, the devices and systems described herein could be used to monitor cockroach, ant, beetle, or any other insect population. The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the composition of the invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended.