Patent Publication Number: US-2018027794-A1

Title: Systems and methods for insect trapping and detection

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/480,165, filed Apr. 5, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/320,809, filed on Jul. 1, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/842,755, filed Jul. 3, 2013, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Embodiments of the technology relate, in general, to insect detection technology, and in particular to systems and methods for effective monitoring and trapping of insect populations. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The bed bug, Cimex lectularius of the Family Cimicidae, has been a blood-sucking pest for many generations. The adult bed bug&#39;s key features are a length of 6-9 mm, with a flattened, oval, wingless shape and reddish-brown color. They lack tarsal pads and are required to climb vertical surfaces using tarsal hooks that they embed in suitably rough material. Bed bugs are primarily active at night but are not considered to be exclusively nocturnal. They hide in unnoticed crevices and fabric seams which make their detection difficult. 
     Most U.S. homeowners of the last generation have not had to deal with bed bugs due to the widespread use of DDT in the 1940s and 1950s as well as other pesticides in later years. However, the effectiveness of DDT and other pesticides was quickly reduced as bed bugs became resistant to each pesticide as the use of each became more prevalent. The resistance to pesticides among bed bug populations has caused a resurgence in bed bugs and dramatically increased infestations, especially in hotels, resorts, college dormitories, and apartments. 
     SUMMARY 
     An insect trap can include a first planar surface, the first planar surface having a retention flap and a flange, where the first planar surface, the retention flap, and the flange can cooperate to define a pouch. The insect trap can include a second planar surface, the second planar surface being substantially parallel to the first planar surface, where at least a portion of the second planar surface can include a coating of pressure sensitive adhesive. The insect trap can include a plurality of spacers, the spacers being positioned between the first planar surface and the second planar surface such that the first planar surface and the second planar surface are spaced apart, and an attractant pad, the attractant pad containing a carbon dioxide generating material, where the attractant pad can be selectively removable from the pouch. 
     An insect trap can include a first planar surface and a second planar surface, the second planar surface being substantially parallel to the first planar surface, where at least a portion of the second planar surface can include a coating of pressure sensitive adhesive. The insect trap can include a plurality of attractant pads, the plurality of attractant pads being positioned between the first planar surface and the second planar surface such that the first planar surface and the second planar surface are spaced apart, where the plurality of attractant pads contain a carbon dioxide generating material. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present disclosure will be more readily understood from a detailed description of some example embodiments taken in conjunction with the following figures: 
         FIG. 1  depicts a side view of an example insect trap system. 
         FIG. 2  depicts an exploded view of the insect trap system shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  depicts a top view of an optically clear insect trap system according to an alternate embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  depicts a side view of the insect trap shown in  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  depicts a perspective view of a manufacturing process for the insect trap system shown in  FIG. 3  according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  depicts a perspective view of an insect barrier according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  depicts a top view of the insect barrier shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  depicts an exploded view of an insect trap system according to an alternate embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  depicts an exploded view of an insect trap system according to an alternate embodiment. 
         FIG. 10  depicts a side cross-sectional view of the insect trap system shown in  FIG. 9 , further illustrating how carbon dioxide gas can pass through the system. 
         FIG. 11  depicts a partial exploded view of an insect trap system according to an alternate embodiment. 
         FIG. 12  depicts a method of manufacturing the insect trap system shown in  FIG. 11  according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 13  depicts a perspective view of an insect trap system according to an alternate embodiment. 
         FIG. 14  depicts a perspective view of an insect trap system according to an alternate embodiment. 
         FIG. 15  depicts a cross-sectional view of the insect trap system shown in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 16  depicts an exploded view of the insect trap system shown in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of an insect trap according to one embodiment. 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of an insect trap according to one embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, and use of the apparatuses, systems, methods, and processes disclosed herein. One or more examples of these non-limiting embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that systems and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting embodiments. The features illustrated or described in connection with one non-limiting embodiment may be combined with the features of other non-limiting embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Insect infestations (e.g., bed bugs) are undergoing a huge resurgence around the globe and there is a need for an effective monitoring system that can allow for the early detection of bed bugs (or other insect pests) before the insect populations have a chance to become well established and begin to spread. Example embodiments of traps, detectors, or monitors can, for example, allow residents, building managers, or pest control technicians to detect, track, and document insect population levels over time. Example systems and methods can also assist in verifying and validating the killing effectiveness of other pest control programs such as chemical sprays, baits, heaters, steam treatments, and the like. 
     Example systems, including those described herein, can improve the effective surface area of a monitor or trap by avoiding or limiting the use of beads of PSA in traps, where such configurations may limit the effectiveness in trapping insects and may waste PSA. Example embodiments can include wide openings and can eliminate ramps and other barriers that may require additional effort for insects to enter a trap. Insects may naturally follow the path of least resistance and may veer away when encountering such obstacles. It will be appreciated that embodiments are described by way of example only, where ramps (as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 14-16 ), barriers, texturing, or other designs or features are contemplated if such a configuration is desirable for a particular application. Example embodiments can include a low ceiling, where a low ceiling design may encourage insects to gather, cluster or nest within the interior of the trap, monitor, or detection system. 
     Example systems can include adhesive on multiple surfaces, where applying adhesive to only one surface may limit the useable orientation of a trap or monitor. For example, providing a single adhesive surface may make a trap ineffective when used upside down and only minimally effective if oriented vertically. Adhesive mounting strips can also be positioned on the exterior of a trap or monitor, which can make the trap or monitor useful in a wide variety of applications other than simply resting on a flat surface. Example embodiments can be coated on part or substantially all of the exterior of a trap with adhesive, where such traps can be omni-directional and can include a peel and stick backing that can make such traps equally effective for application at any angle on any surface. It will be appreciated that any combination of adhesive, PSA, insect attractant, design, and configuration is contemplated. 
     Example embodiments can include closed designs that can reduce or eliminate exposed adhesive trapping areas such that, when traps are placed in situ, the likelihood that such surfaces can be touched or interfered with by adults, children, or pets is reduced. Such embodiments may also have a longer effective life as exposed adhesive can quickly become ineffective due to other outside factors, such as ambient dust. 
     Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” or “in an embodiment” in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. 
     Described herein are example embodiments of apparatuses, systems, and methods for insect detection, extermination, trapping, or monitoring. In one example embodiment, a trap can be provided that can both attract and trap insects. In some embodiments, a trap can be provided that can attract insects, such as bed bugs, using carbon dioxide or heat. In some embodiments, a trap can be provided that can trap insects such as bed bugs using a PSA (pressure sensitive adhesive). Certain embodiments can include an insect monitoring device that can trap and hold insects in a viewable housing with internal coatings of non-drying adhesives or PSA. 
     The examples discussed herein are examples only and are provided to assist in the explanation of the apparatuses, devices, systems and methods described herein. None of the features or components shown in the drawings or discussed below should be taken as mandatory for any specific implementation of any of these the apparatuses, devices, systems or methods unless specifically designated as mandatory. For ease of reading and clarity, certain components, modules, or methods may be described solely in connection with a specific figure. Any failure to specifically describe a combination or sub-combination of components should not be understood as an indication that any combination or sub-combination is not possible. Also, for any methods described, regardless of whether the method is described in conjunction with a flow diagram, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified or required by context, any explicit or implicit ordering of steps performed in the execution of a method does not imply that those steps must be performed in the order presented but instead may be performed in a different order or in parallel. 
     Example systems described herein can optimize the height dimension within a monitor trap to leverage the natural instinct of target insects to cluster together in tight spaces, which can make the traps attractive as a nesting and harboring space. Example embodiments can allow for viewing of entrapped insects by the use of optically clear PSA or optically clear construct films. Example embodiments can include an open perimeter design that can have central support spacers that can allow 360 degrees of access by insects, where such embodiments may eliminate access deterrents such as climbing ramps or narrowed openings. Embodiments can include an omni-directional trap design, which can allow for a wide variety of trap placement options in any plane of orientation. Example embodiments can include a relatively large surface area of the PSA entrapment glues. Example embodiments can eliminate or reduce a user&#39;s contact with PSA glues or trapped insects before, during, or after use. Example embodiments can include a simple construction and design that can use design for manufacture principles that can enable high-speed production and may reduce manufacturing costs. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , shown is an example embodiment of a trap  10  that can be used for the trapping, exterminating, detecting, or monitoring of various insect species infestations, particularly bed bugs. The trap  10  can include a first planar surface  12  and a second planar surface  14 , where the first planar surface  12  and the second planar surface  14  can be spaced-apart parallel planes of substrate separated by a plurality of spacers  18 . The first planar surface  12  or the second planar surface  14  can include a coating  16  of pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or any suitable adhesive, attractant, insecticide, material, or combinations thereof, where the coating  16  can be located on an inner surface of the second planar surface  14 . The spacing between the first planar surface  12  and the second planar surface  14  can be optimized as an attractant for a target insect species to leverage the natural instinct of many insects to cluster or nest together within tight enclosed spaces. For example, the spacing between the first planar surface and the second planar surface can be from about 1 mm to about 7 mm in distance, from about 5 mm to about 6 mm in distance, or from about 2 mm to about 4 mm in distance. Spacing can also be adjusted to target a suitable stage in an insect lifecycle. Any suitable number of spacers  18  having any suitable configuration is contemplated where the spacers  18  can also function to couple the first planar surface  12  with the second planar surface  14 . Example configurations of the spacers  18  can include three-dimensional dots or dashes, spheres, columns, cubes, porous tubes of carbon dioxide-emitting material, dots or ribs that can protrude from one or both planar surfaces, corrugated or embossed layers between the two planar surfaces, porous webs, scrims, or combinations thereof. 
     In an example embodiment, the first planar surface  12  can include a retention flap  22  and flange  24 , such that the retention flap  22  can selectively engage the flange  24  to define a pouch, cavity, or compartment  26  in combination with the first planar surface  12 . The compartment  26  can be configured to retain an insect attractant such as, for example, an attractant pad  28  that can be selectively removable from the compartment  26 . The attractant pad  28  can include a carbon dioxide generating material where, in an example embodiment, the attractant pad  28  can be wetted by a user to activate the carbon dioxide generating material before inserting the attractant pad  28  into the compartment  26 . Combinations that can be used to create carbon dioxide can include yeast fermentation, combining yeast, sugar and water in a fermenting process, combining baking soda and vinegar, combining bicarbonates and water, combining citric acid flakes, baking soda and water, melting dry ice, combining calcium carbonate with an acid, using fungus for microbial fermentation of carbon dioxide, reducing iron from its oxides (exothermic rust formation), combining hydrochloric acid with limestone or chalk (calcium carbonate), or combinations thereof. Other chemicals or compounds such as sugars or pheromones can also be used or can be used independently. 
     The attractant pad  28  can be selectively removable from the trap  10  such that multiple attractant pads  28  can be used with the same trap  10  over time. Carbon dioxide is an attractant for many insects, where including an attractant pad  28  may draw insects into the trap  10  for capture on the coating  16 . It will be appreciated that any suitable attractant is contemplated including chemical attractants, pheromones, or heat. In an example embodiment, the attractant pad can include a heating element, such as a heating element that is activated when exposed to air, to draw insects into a trap. It will be appreciated that any suitable number of attractant pads  28 , compartments  26 , materials, or the like are contemplated in any suitable configuration. Such attractant pads  28  can be specific for a particular species of insect or can be broad spectrum. 
     In one example, a coating can be placed on a first planar surface, a second planar surface, and a plurality of spacers, which can allow for the entire interior surface of the trap to be used as a trapping surface for insects and can reduce or eliminate exposed PSA on the exterior of the trap. In an example embodiment, the trap  10  can be easily placed across a broad range of locations and orientations such as under mattresses, between couch cushions, behind pictures and headboards, on bedframes and furniture legs, inside luggage or drawers, etc. The trap  10 , in one embodiment, can be easily handled without the user contacting any PSA, or other active or adhesive material, which may make the trap  10  appealing to users with children or pets. 
     The trap  10  can be configured with a low-profile and an open edge design which can allow insects to enter the trap  10  from any point around the perimeter without the need to climb up ramps or seek out openings within the trap. In an example embodiment, the first planar surface  12  and the second planar surface  14  can be an optically clear film and the coating  16  can be an optically clear PSA. The trap  10  can be transparent or substantially transparent, which can facilitate the early detection and monitoring of target insects in situ. Such a configuration may allow for the improved viewing and documenting of insects trapped in situ from multiple perspectives, including close examination under a microscope without requiring the user to have any direct exposure or contact with insects. 
     The trap  10  can have a substantially hollow construction having a closely spaced parallel first planar surface  12  and second planar surface  14 , separated by a plurality of spacers  18 , which can create a multiplicity of narrow nesting spaces for insect colonies. The spacing between the first planar surface  12  and the second planar surface  14  can be adjusted during fabrication to be optimized for attracting specific target insect species by leveraging the natural instinct of harboring together and nesting within tight enclosed spaces. Any suitable number and configuration of spacers  18  is contemplated. The trap  10  can have a substantially uniform thickness or, in an alternate embodiment, can have a variable or user-adjusted thickness where, for example, the spacers  18  can be telescoping members allowing for a range of thicknesses. 
     The trap  10  can include a low profile and narrow perimeter entry gap  20 , having a thickness “T”, that can allow insects unrestricted access around the entire exterior perimeter of the monitor or trap  10 , which can offer the insects 360 degrees of access without the need to climb up inclines or entry ramps. The narrow perimeter entry gap can also prevent any unwanted or accidental contact with the adhesives or coating  16  by adults, children, pets or the like. In an example embodiment, by optimizing the narrow perimeter entry gap  20 , the exposure of the coating  16  to ambient air currents can be minimized which can reduce exposure of the coating  16  to airborne dust or contaminants that may cause a loss of the beneficial properties of the coating  16 . 
     In an example embodiment, the trap  10  can be substantially flexible, elastic, or malleable such that the trap  10  can be shaped around curves, corners, or complex shapes, where the trap  10  can be deployed as an effective perimeter barrier for furniture, bed frames, chair legs, cabinetry, doorways, windows, baseboards and the like. In an example embodiment, the trap  10  can have an elongate flexible configuration the can allow the trap  10  to be placed substantially within the entire gap underneath a door. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4  an example embodiment of a trap  110  is shown that can include a first planar surface  112 , a second planar surface  114 , a plurality of spacers  118 , and a coating  116 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first planar surface  112 , the second planar surface  114 , and the plurality of spacers  118  can be configured from a substantially transparent material. The trap can be, for example, 1.25 inches wide and 3 inches in length, although any suitable dimensions are contemplated. The second planar surface  114  can include a perimeter around the coating  116 , where the perimeter may not contain adhesive, PSA, or other materials. The perimeter may reduce the likelihood that a user will come into contact with the coating  116 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , one example of a method of manufacturing the trap  110  is illustrated. A first sheet  130  of clear film can be provided that can be extruded or otherwise manufactured on a large scale. The first sheet  130  can be cut, at the completion of the manufacturing process, such to create a plurality of first planar surfaces  112 . The first sheet  130  can have a plurality of spacers  118 , which can be formed from hot melt glue or other flowable material, applied to the first sheet  132  by any suitable machine or system. A second sheet  132  of white card stock or film can be provided that can be extruded or otherwise manufactured on a large scale. The second sheet  132  can be cut, at the completion of the manufacturing process to create a plurality of second planar surfaces  114 . A plurality of coatings  116  can be applied to the second sheet  132 , such as in spaced apart generally rectangular-shaped configurations, that can function as the coating  116  in the finished trap  110 . In an example embodiment, the first sheet  130  and the second sheet  132  can be adhered to one another by spacers  118  partially melted during production, where the first sheet  130  and the second sheet  132  can be substantially affixed to one another when the spacers  118  harden. A cutting device (not shown) can then separate the first sheet  130  and the attached second sheet  132  into a plurality of traps  110 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , one example of a barrier  210  is illustrated that can include a first planar surface  212  that can be affixed to a second planar surface  214  with a plurality of spacers  218 . That second planar surface  214  can include a coating  216  that can have an adhesive, attractant, or other suitably impregnated surface, material, or chemical. The barrier  210  can be configured for placement in door frames or other suitable locations to help prevent the migration of insects such as bed bugs. In an example embodiment, the barrier  210  can have a width of 1.25 inches and a length of 48 inches, although any suitable length is contemplated. In an example embodiment, a user can purchase a relative long sheet of barrier  210  that can be cut by the user to a desirable length. The barrier  210  can include staggered spacers  218  ( FIG. 7 ) that may further impede the progress of insects through the barrier  210 . The barrier  210  can include a non-adhesive perimeter  234  that can facilitate handling of the barrier  210  without contacting the coating  216 . Referring to  FIG. 6 , the second planar surface  214  can also include an adhesive  236 , such as a peel-and-stick adhesive, on the bottom surface thereof, such that a user can attach the trap  210  to a wall or other surface. The adhesive  236  may have a paper coating (not shown) that can be removed by a user before attaching the barrier  210  to any suitable surface. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , an alternate embodiment of a trap  310  is illustrated that can include a first planar surface  312  and a second planar surface  314  that can be coupled together with a corrugated or waveform adhesive  340 . The waveform adhesive  340  can suitably space apart the first planar surface  312  and the second planar surface  314  and the waveform adhesive  340  can be impregnated with PSA or another suitable material to capture insects passing through the trap  310 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , an alternate embodiment of a trap  410  is illustrated that can include a tray  412  that can define a compartment  460  ( FIG. 10 ) in combination with a dome  413 . The compartment  460  can be configured to selectively retain one or a plurality of attractant pads  428 , where the attractant pads  428  can be configured to generate carbon dioxide, heat, or the like. Referring to  FIG. 10 , the tray  412  can be at least partially filled with a fluid  415 , such as water, that can activate the one or a plurality of attractant pads  428 . The tray  412  can include a plurality of feet or spacers  418  that can be configured to engage a planar surface  414  that can include a coating  416  of PSA or adhesive. In an example embodiment, the spacers  418  of the tray  412  can be permanently affixed to the planar surface  414 . In an example embodiment, the dome  413  can be selectively removable, such as with a snap fit, from the tray  412  such that a user can remove the dome  413 , insert one or a plurality of attractant pads  428  into the compartment  460 , insert a liquid  415 , and reattach the dome  413 . The dome  413  can be affixed to the tray  412  in a non-airtight configuration such that gases, such as carbon dioxide, can emanate from the trap  410  when the one or a plurality of attractant pads  428  is activated. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , an alternate embodiment of a trap  510  is illustrated, where the trap  510  can include a first planar surface  512 , a second planar surface  514 , and one or a plurality of attractant pouches  518  spaced therebetween. The first planar surface  512  and the second planar surface  514  can include a coating  516  of adhesive or PSA. In an example embodiment, the pouches  518  can be porous or otherwise non-airtight such that an attractant can emanate through the pouches  518 . The pouches can retain a chemical, solution, or mixture, for example, that exudes carbon dioxide when exposed to fluids such as water. The pouches  518  can be for example 1.5 inches long and 0.5 wide. The first planar surface  512  and the second planar surface  514  can be spaced apart by a predetermined distance such as 5.2 mm, for example. The trap  510  can be 1.5 inches wide and 3 inches long. The pouches  518  can include an adhesive that can couple the first planar surface  512  with the second planar surface  514 , or alternatively can be attached to the coatings  516  on the first planar surface  512  and the second planar surface  514 . The pouches  518  can include a gaseous attractant, can give off heat, can include bait, or otherwise attract insects. In an example embodiment, the pouches  518  can be configured to produce attractant for from about seven to about ten days, although any suitable useful life is contemplated. In an example embodiment, the pouches  518  can be activated with water and can include an adhesive surface that is hydrophobic such that the trap  510  can shed water with no impact on the adhesive surface&#39;s functionality. 
     Referring to  FIG. 12 , one example of a method of manufacturing the trap  510  is illustrated. A first sheet  530  of clear film can be provided that can be extruded or otherwise manufactured on a large scale. The first sheet  530  can be cut, at the completion of the manufacturing process, such as to create a plurality of first planar surfaces  512  (e.g., see  FIG. 11 ). A plurality of attractant pouches  518 , which can be can be affixed to one another in series prior to a final cutting step, can be placed along the first sheet  530 . A second sheet (not shown) film can be provided that can be extruded or otherwise manufactured on a large scale. The second sheet can be cut, at the completion of the manufacturing process to create a plurality of second planar surfaces  514 . A plurality of coatings  516  can be applied to the second sheet and the first sheet  530 , such as in spaced apart generally rectangle-shaped configurations that can function as the coatings  516  in the finished trap  510 . A cutting device (not shown) can then separate the first sheet  530  and the attached second sheet into a plurality of traps  510 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , shown is an example embodiment of a trap  610  that can be used for the trapping, exterminating, detecting, or monitoring of various insect species infestations, particularly bed bugs. The trap  610  can include a first planar surface  612  and a second planar surface  614 , where the first planar surface  612  and the second planar surface  614  can be spaced-apart parallel planes of substrate separated by a plurality of spacers  618 . The first planar surface  612  or the second planar surface  614  can include a coating  616  of pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or any suitable adhesive, attractant, insecticide, coating, material, or combinations thereof, where the coating  616  can be located on an inner surface of the second planar surface  14 . The spacing between the first planar surface  612  and the second planar surface  614  can be optimized as an attractant for a target insect species to leverage the natural instinct of many insects to cluster or nest together within tight enclosed spaces. For example, the spacing between the first planar surface  612  and the second planar surface  614  can be from about 1 mm to about 7 mm in height, from about 5 mm to about 6 mm in height, or from about 2 mm to about 4 mm in height. Spacing can also be adjusted to target a suitable stage in an insect lifecycle. Any suitable number of spacers  618  having any suitable configuration is contemplated, where the spacers  618  can also function to couple the first planar surface  612  with the second planar surface  614 . In an example embodiment, the first planar surface  612 , the second planar surface  614 , and the spacers  618  can be integral where, for example, the trap  610  can be a single extrusion, mold, or the like. The trap  610  can include an attachment surface  650  that can be covered by a selectively removable film  652 , where the attachment surface  650  can be configured to attach the trap  610  to any suitable surface when the removable film  652  is removed. It will be appreciated that the attachment surface  650  can include any suitable adhesive and that any other attachment, such as magnets or a hook and loop fastener, is contemplated. It will be appreciated that the attachment surface  650  can be positioned at any location on the trap  610  and can be used to attach the trap  610  to any suitable surface. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14-16 , an alternate embodiment of a trap  710  is illustrated that can include a tray  712  that can define a compartment  760  ( FIGS. 15 and 16 ) in combination with a dome  713 . The compartment  760  can be configured to selectively retain one or a plurality of attractant elements  728 , where the attractant elements  728  can be configured to generate carbon dioxide, heat, or the like. Referring to  FIG. 15 , the tray  712  can be at least partially filled with a fluid  715 , such as water, that can activate the one or a plurality of attractant elements  728 . The tray  712  can engage a planar surface  714  that can include a coating  716  of PSA or adhesive. In an example embodiment, a ramp  780  can be associated with the planar surface  714 . In an example embodiment, the dome  713  can be selectively removable, such as with a snap fit, from the tray  712  such that a user can remove the dome  713 , insert one or a plurality of attractant elements  728  into the compartment  760 , insert a liquid  715 , and reattach the dome  713 . The dome  713  can be affixed to the tray  712  in a non-airtight configuration such that gases, such as carbon dioxide, can emanate from the trap  710  when the one or a plurality of attractant elements  728  is activated. 
     In connection with  FIG. 17 , an alternate embodiment of an insect trap  810  is shown. The insect trap  810  is shown to include a floor  812  and sidewalls  814  that can extend upwardly from the floor  812  at an oblique angle such that the insect trap  810  is substantially frustoconically shaped. As such, the overall profile of the insect trap  810  can be compact and thus easily deployable in confined areas, such as beneath a mattress, without being crushed or otherwise affecting the overall integrity of the insect trap  810 . The floor  812  and the sidewalls  814  can cooperate to define a receptacle  816  or cavity. The floor  812  can be coated with an adhesive  818 , such as a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), or any of a variety of other adhesives that are capable of retaining, restraining, attracting, and/or exterminating an insect. The PSA can be impregnated with materials that can kill or further immobilize the bed bugs. For example, an amino acid composition can be included that that attacks the exoskeleton of the bed bugs when they try to remove the composition. Borate and can be used which has a fine grid that can cut the exoskeleton of bed bugs. In various embodiments, the floor  812  can be fully covered with the adhesive  818  can be partially covered with the adhesive  818 . For example, the adhesive  818  may extend along the floor to the point where the sidewalls  814  intersect with the floor  812 . In an alternate embodiment, the adhesive  818  may stop at a distance from where the sidewalls intersect with the floor  812 , where the distance can be from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, from about 1 mm to about 2 mm, from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, from about 3 mm to about 7 mm, or any other suitable distance. 
     In certain embodiments it may only be useful to provide adhesive  818  that extends laterally only just beyond the aperture defined by the top of the sidewalls  814 . During the manufacturing process, it may be challenging to apply adhesive  818  such that it will cover the entirety of the floor  812 , however, such coverage may be unnecessary and/or wasteful. During operation of the insect trap  810 , the bed bugs  820  may fall from the sidewalls  814  directly downward into the receptacle  816 . So long as the adhesive  818  is below where the bed bugs  820  fall the coverage may be sufficient to capture the bed bugs  820 . It may still be beneficial to extend the adhesive  818  radially outward beyond this perimeter somewhat, such as from about 1 mm to about 3 mm, from about 1 mm to about 5 mm, from about 2 mm to about 10 mm, or any other suitable distance, but where the adhesive  818  does not completely cover the floor  812 . 
     The sidewalls  814  can be angled in such a way to allow bed bugs  820  to easily climb the sidewalls  814  and fall into the receptacle  816  and onto the adhesive  818 . The sidewalls  814  can be angled with respect to the floor  812  by from about 10 degrees to about 20 degrees, from about 5 degrees to about 45 degrees, from about 5 degrees to about 90 degrees, or from about 15 degrees to about 25 degrees, where other angles are also contemplated. Each of the sidewalls  814  can have a uniform shape and oblique angle or, alternatively, each of the sidewalls  814  can have a different shape and/or angle. The sidewalls  814  can be monolithic such that they have a unitary, one piece construction. The sidewalls  814  can be fixedly coupled to one another such that that the form a substantially rigid perimeter around the insect trap  810 . In an alternative embodiment, the edges of each of the sidewalls  814  may be adjacent one another, but not fixedly coupled, such that each of the sidewalls  814  is pivotably movable (e.g., a living hinge) relative to the floor  812 . In one embodiment, one or a plurality of the sidewalls  814  can be selectively adjusted by a user to a particular angle depending upon the needs of a particular application. 
     The sidewalls  814  can each have an upper surface  822  and a lower surface  824 . Each upper surface  822  can have a coefficient of friction that enables bed bugs (e.g.,  820 ) to effectively climb the respective sidewalls  814 . The lower surface  824  can have a coefficient of friction that is less, or substantially less, than the upper surface  822  (e.g., by a factor of at least  2 ), which may aid in encouraging the bed bugs  820  into the receptacle  816  and may prevent the bed bugs  820  that are captured in the receptacle  816  from climbing the sidewalls  814  and escaping the receptacle  816 . For example, when a bed bug  820  falls from the sidewall  814 , the bed bug  820  may briefly swing under the sidewall  814  and into contact with the lower surface  824 . The bed bug  820 , however, may be unable to effectively grasp the lower surface  824  (due to its sufficiently low coefficient of friction) and can thus fall into the receptacle  816  and onto the adhesive  818 . Once the bed bug  820  is adhered to the adhesive  818 , the low coefficient of friction of the lower surface  824  can prevent the bed bug  820  from using the lower surface  824  to pull away from the adhesive  818  and climb out of the receptacle  816 . In one embodiment, the lower surface  824  can be coated with, embedded with, or formed using a low friction material such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), talcum powder, or the like. In another embodiment, the sidewalls  814  can be formed of a substantially translucent material that allows a user to easily view the contents of the receptacle  816  without the need to handle the insect trap  810 . 
     In one embodiment, the upper surface  822  of the sidewalls  814  can include a surface effect that can increase the coefficient of friction to readily allow insects, such as bed bugs  820 , to climb the sidewalls. The surface effect can include texturing, a stepped shape, a tacky mild adhesive, or the like. In one embodiment the surface effect on the upper surface  822  is operably configured to allow the bed bug  820  to climb the upper surface  822 , but resists the bed bug climbing down the upper surface  822 . Although the sidewalls  814  are shown as substantially planar in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , it will be appreciated that any suitable shape is contemplated. For example, the sidewalls can have a concave shape, a convex shape, a rounded shape such that the insect trap has a dome-shaped configuration, or the like. In one embodiment, the insect trap can have a disk or circular-shaped base such that the sidewall is a contiguous rounded and curved perimeter around the circumference of the circular-shaped base. Other shapes for insect traps are contemplated, where any suitable number of sidewalls having any suitable shape can be incorporated to facilitate such a structure. General structures for an insect trap can include a pyramid, a sphere, a dome, a sidewall have five or more sections, a sidewall having 6 or more sections, a sidewalls having 7 or more sections, a sidewall having 8 or more sections, or any suitable number of sections or regions. It will be appreciated that the upper surface  822  of the sidewalls  814  can have an upper portion and a lower portion, where the upper portion may have a different size, shape, surface effect, coefficient of friction, or the like, as compared to the bottom section of the upper surface  822 . 
     The insect trap  810  can include an attractant device  826  that is configured to produce an attractant for the bed bugs  820 . In one embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 17 , the attractant device  826  can include a container  828  and a sponge  830  disposed at the bottom of the container  828  for storing water. The container  828  can be configured to retain a plurality of dissolvable tables  832 . The dissolvable tablets  832  can be dissolvable in water or other fluid to produce a scent, gas, or the like that attracts the bed bugs  820  to the insect trap  810 . An overcap  834  can be provided over the container  828  and the dissolvable tablets  832 . The overcap  834  can be configured to permit the scent and/or gasses from the dissolvable tablets  832  to escape to the surrounding environment. In one embodiment, the overcap  834  can include holes  836 , but the overcap  834  can include any of a variety of suitable alternative fluid permeable arrangements, such as a screen, for example. In one embodiment, the dissolvable tablets  832  can be dry effervescent carbon dioxide tablets that release carbon dioxide gas that attracts bed bugs  820 . The dissolvable tablets  832  can be formed of a combination of citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, or any of a variety of other suitable materials or combinations thereof that are capable of producing carbon dioxide when introduced to water or other fluid. 
     The top of the sidewalls  814  can be spaced apart from the overcap  834  a sufficient distance such that the bed bugs  820  are unable to climb directly from the sidewalls on the overcap  834 . For example, the gap “G” defined by the overcap  834  and the top of the sidewalls  814  can be from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, from about 10 mm to about 25 mm, from about 15 mm to about 25 mm, or any other suitable distance. It may also be beneficial for the gap G to be small enough that the release of gasses from the insect trap  810  is controlled and not excessive such that the insect trap  810  has a long effective life. It may also be advantageous to provide a relatively small gap G to reduce the likelihood that children, animals, or the like will be able to access the receptacle  816 , the adhesive  818 , and/or the bed bugs  820  trapped within the receptacle  816 . With reference to  FIG. 17 , an upper surface of the attractant device  826  can be planar or substantially planar with the top of the sidewalls  814 . With reference to  FIG. 18 , in an alternate embodiment, an upper surface of the attractant device  926  can be offset or have a lower relative positon to the top of the sidewalls  914 , where the relative position of the sidewalls and attractant device can vary. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 17 , the sidewalls  814  can be substantially contiguous with the floor  812  such that any gasses accumulating within the receptacle  816  can only escape through the gap G. Such a configuration may be advantageous as the retained gasses may have a relatively slow release such that the effective life of the trap  810  is extended. Alternatively, the sidewalls  814 , the junction between the sidewalls  814  and the floor  812 , and/or the junction between each of the sidewalls  814  can define an aperture, slot, hole, or the like (not shown) that can allow gases from the attractant device  826  to pass laterally through or below the sidewalls  814  to attract bed bugs  820 . For example, certain gasses may be heavier than ambient air such that they are unable to effectively escape through only the gap G. Apertures (not shown) defined by the sidewalls  814 , floor  812 , or the like, may allow such gases to more readily escape to attract insects. Such apertures can be sized to prevent bed bugs  820  from escaping the receptacle  816  and/or can include a screen or a mesh to prevent the escape of insects. In yet another embodiment, a portion of the sidewalls  814  and/or the floor  812  can be porous to a gas, for example, such that the gas is able to pass through the portion of the sidewalls  814  and/or floor  812 . It will be appreciated that any suitable component or feature of the insect trap  810  can be porous or semi-porous to allow for the passage of gasses, scents, pheromones, chemicals, fluids, or the like. 
     The dissolvable tablets  832  can be stacked on the sponge  830 , as illustrated in  FIG. 17 , which can contribute to a prolonged production of carbon dioxide (e.g., over a period of hours or days) from the attractant device  826 . For example, when water from the sponge  830  is introduced to the stack of dissolvable tablets  832 , the lowermost dissolvable tablet  832  can begin to dissolve and produce carbon dioxide. As the lowermost dissolvable tablet  832  eventually dissolves, the next dissolvable tablet  32  in the stack can be brought into contact with the water from the sponge  830 . As each of the dissolvable tablets  832  dissolves, the next dissolvable tablet  832  in the stack can be brought into contact with the water from the sponge  30  until the entire stack is depleted. The container  828  can have an outer wall  838  that is spaced apart at its greatest diameter by a distance D that is slightly greater than a width W of one of the dissolvable tablets  832  such that the dissolvable tablets  832  fit snugly between the outer walls  838  of the container  828 . The outer walls  838  can have a height H that is high enough to facilitate stacking of the dissolvable tablets  832  within the container  828  (e.g., at least 3-5 times the height of one dissolvable tablet  832 ). 
     It will be appreciated that any suitable number, shape, and position of the dissolvable tablets  832  is contemplated. In one embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG. 17 , a plurality of tablets can be stacked vertically upon one another. As illustrated in  FIG. 16 , tablets can be both adjacent one another and stacked vertically. In one embodiment, a single tablet or attractant feature can be used that has different sections having different properties to allow for timed release of a gas or the like. The dissolvable tablets can be uniform, can vary in composition, can include a coating for delayed released, or the like. The dissolvable tablets can be cylindrical, spherical, cube, or otherwise shaped. Insect traps are contemplated that incorporate a sponge as well as systems that do not have a sponge. In one embodiment, a sponge can be positioned in the center of an insect traps with a plurality of dissolvable tablets surrounding the sponge in a “hub and spoke” configuration. 
     Water or other fluids can be introduced to the dissolvable tablets  832  in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the overcap  834  can be removed and water can be added by a user to start, for example, a chemical reaction to activate the trap. In an alternate embodiment, an appropriate volume of fluid (e.g., water) can be provided with the trap (e.g. insect trap  810 ), but isolated from the dissolvable tablets  832  until the insect trap is ready for use. A pull tab, spacer, or the like can separate the dissolvable tablets  832  from the water or other fluid until the user removes the divider and allows the fluid to mix with the dissolvable tablets. Such a self-contained unit may be easier to operate for the user and may beneficially limit the users direct access to the dissolvable tablets. In another version, the necessary fluid can be provided in a frangible ampoule within the attractant element, similar to a glow stick, where “cracking” or breaking the ampoule can release the fluid such that it can contact the dissolvable tablets to activate the insect trap. 
     The concentration of carbon dioxide from the stack of dissolvable tablets  832  can be heavier than ambient air and can represent any suitable percent concentration within the receptacle  816 . The percent concentration within the receptacle  816  can be, for example, from about 90% to about 100%, from about 50% to about 95%, from about 75% to about 85%, from about 95% to about 99%, or any other suitable percent concentration. By prolonging the production of carbon dioxide from the receptacle  816 , a high concentration of carbon dioxide can collect in the receptacle  816  and excess carbon dioxide can escape to the surrounding environment. The environmental carbon dioxide profile created by the insect trap  810  can substantially mimic that of a living being (e.g., a human), which can leverage the instinctual behavior of the bed bugs  820  to entice them to the insect trap  810 . In one embodiment, a method of catching bed bugs can include providing a receptacle  816  having a percent concentration of carbon dioxide of greater than 90%, operably configuring the insect trap  810  such that carbon dioxide can flow out of the receptacle  816  to attract the bed bugs, providing sidewalls  814  shaped to create a pitfall for bed bugs, and providing an adhesive  818  to capture the bed bugs that fall from the sidewalls  814 . 
     When the dissolvable tablets  832  and/or the water in the sponge  830  have been depleted, the attractant device  826  can be easily accessed to replenish the dissolvable tablets  832  or the water on the sponge  830  which can encourage refilling and reuse of the insect trap  810 , thus alleviating the environmental harm often associated with conventional disposable traps. In addition, since the sponge  830  and the dissolvable tablets  832  can be non-toxic, the attractant device  826  can be refilled without substantial risk of harm to the user or the surrounding environment. Moreover, since the sponge  830  and dissolvable tablets  832  are effectively self-contained within the container  828  the risk of spilling the contents of the container are alleviated, which can encourage refilling and reuse of the insect trap  810 . 
     It is to be appreciated that various characteristics of the sponge  830  and the dissolvable tablets  832  can be selected to achieve certain performance metrics. For example, the saturation and/or porosity of the sponge  830  can be selected to achieve a desired rate of reaction with the dissolvable tablets  832 . Furthermore the concentration and/or material of the dissolvable tablets  832  can be selected to achieve a desired attractant characteristic. For example, in one embodiment, the dissolvable tablets  832  can be 20 g tablets formed of a yeast and sugar fermentation reaction that generates relatively low levels of carbon dioxide. This approach can have many of the same benefits as the dissolvable tablets  832  of effervescent carbon dioxide described above but can require more moisture from the sponge  830  to generate a longer reaction rate profile. It is also to be appreciated that, any of a variety of suitable alternative water sources and/or tablet arrangements are contemplated. For example, an acidic solution or weak acidic solution can be used. 
     It is to be appreciated that the attractant device  826  can additionally or alternatively include attractants such as pheromones, kairomones and the like that produce an olfactory signal that attracts bed bugs. It is also to be appreciated that while bed bugs are described herein, the insect trap  810  can be utilized to attract any of a variety of other insects. It may be advantageous to provide an insect trap  810  that has been marked or otherwise accessed by bed bugs  820  prior to use by an end user. Bed bugs  820  may be attracted to where other bed bugs  820  have been, where “seeding” an insect trap  820  with bed bugs prior to use may increase the attractant power of the insect trap  810 . In one embodiment, all or a portion of the insect traps  810  can be exposed to an environment of bed bugs  820  such that the portion of the insect trap is impregnated, permeated, or marked with the scent of other bed bugs  820 . In an alternate embodiment, the chemical signature of bed bugs can be simulated, synthesized, and/or extracted for application to all or a portion of the insect trap  810 . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates an alternative embodiment of an insect trap  910  that is similar to or the same in many respects as the insect trap  810  illustrated in  FIG. 17 . For example, the insect trap  910  includes a floor  912  and a plurality of sidewalls  914  extending therefrom. However, the insect trap  910  can include an attractant device  926  that comprises a heat source or pheromone source. The heat and/or pheromones from the attractant device  926  can be configured to emulate a human or other living being to facilitate attraction of bed bugs (e.g.,  820 ) to the insect trap  910 . 
     In general, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that at least some of the embodiments described herein can be implemented in many different embodiments of hardware, features, and materials. The materials, hardware, and configurations that can be used to implement embodiments is not limiting. For example, embodiments described herein can be implemented using any suitable materials, adhesives, coatings, and can be assembled using any suitable manufacturing system or method. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 17 , in certain embodiments it may be desirable to place the insect trap  810  between mattresses, between a mattress and a box spring, or the like. In such circumstances the gap G may become blocked or clogged such that bed bugs  820  are unable to enter the receptacle  816  and/or gas is unable to escape the receptacle  816  to attract the insects. It is contemplated that the insect trap  810  can be modified to accommodate such conditions. In one version, the sidewalls  814  can define one or a plurality of windows (not shown) or apertures through which the bed bugs  820  can enter and the gasses can pass. The windows can be sized to allow bed bugs to enter the receptacle  816  of the insect trap  816  even when a mattress or other surface may block the gap G of the receptacle  816 . Any suitable numbers of windows, apertures, gaps, or the like in the sidewalls  814  are contemplated. In one embodiment, the windows, apertures, or the like can include a flap or one-way valve that permits bed bugs  820  to enter the receptacle  816 , but prevents the bed bugs  820  from exiting through the windows or apertures. In one variation of this embodiment, the insect trap may have a closed top, such as a pyramid shape, where the only entry point for the bed bugs  829  is through windows formed in the side of the pyramid. The top of the pyramid structure may act as a support for the mattress or other surface that is placed atop the insect trap. 
     In an alternate version, which may be useful between mattresses and the like, the insect trap  810  can be used in connection with a support device that can resemble a pizza saver or package saver. Such a support device can have a flat upper surface supported by three, four, or more support pillars to space apart, for example, two mattresses. The support device can be sized such that the insect trap  810  can be inserted into the space created by the support device. 
     In yet another version that may be useful between mattresses or other such surfaces, the attractant device  826  can project upwardly (not shown) beyond the top of the sidewalls  814  to serve as a tent pole or support pole. For example, the attractant device  826 , or a projection extending from the attractant device  826 , can project from about 50 mm to about 100 mm above the floor  812  to create enough space for bed bugs  820  to enter the gap G and the receptacle  816 . 
     It will be appreciated that the insect traps, such as insect traps  810  and  910 , can include a variety of color patterns that may attract bed bugs. The insect traps  810 ,  910  can be a single color, can be multiple colors, and can have any suitable design or pattern. 
     It may be advantageous to provide a system for monitoring or trapping bed bugs that both attracts bed bugs to an adhesive and urges the bed bugs towards the adhesive from an external source. For example, a perimeter around an insect trap (e.g., insect trap  810 ) can be provided to flush bed bugs or otherwise urge them towards the trap. Such a treatment might include beta-cyfluthrin and imidacloprid, or another fluid, having an odor, scent, or chemical that is repellant to bed bugs. During use of the insect trap  810 , where the insect trap is placed under a bed, a solution of rubbing alcohol or the like can be sprayed around the perimeter of the room to urge bed bugs towards the insect trap  810 . Other potential repellants can include moth balls or naphthalene. 
     Electrical outlets in walls can be a common access point for bed bugs traveling between the rooms of a house, or the like. It is contemplated that insect traps in accordance with versions described herein can have prongs or extensions that can engage with electrical outlets. 
     Heat may be an attractant for bed bugs and numerous exothermic reactions associated with the traps described herein are contemplated. Additional heating mechanisms powered by batteries, a USB connector, or the like are also contemplated as optional sources of energy for the generation of heat. Such power sources may also provide the insect traps with sounds, coloration, vibration, or other visual, auditory, and/or haptic features to attract bed bugs. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 14-18 , the illustrated insect traps are shown having the attractant element (e.g., attractant element  826 ) positioned at about the center of each of the insect traps (e.g., insect trap  810 ). It will be appreciated that the attractant element need not be in the center, where the attractant element can be provided along the perimeter of the floor (e.g. floor  812 ), on the lower surface  824 , beneath the floor with a vent (not shown) into the receptacle (e.g., receptacle  816 ), or the like. 
     Numerous insect traps, such as those shown in  FIGS. 14-18 , can include attractant tablets that can dissolve to generate an attractant gas such as carbon dioxide. It will be appreciated that other sources of gas, such as carbon dioxide, are contemplated. In one embodiment, a cylinder or canister (not shown) of carbon dioxide can be attached to one or a plurality of insect traps for the delivery of a predetermined amount of gas. Such system may be useful in commercial environments, such as hotel rooms, where the constant use of one or more traps may be beneficial. Using canisters of compressed gas may decrease the cost of such system over time and may provide a more uniform delivery of gas to the one or more traps. 
     In various embodiments disclosed herein, a single component can be replaced by multiple components and multiple components can be replaced by a single component to perform a given function or functions. Except where such substitution would not be operative, such substitution is within the intended scope of the embodiments. Some of the figures can include a flow diagram. Although such figures can include a particular logic flow, it can be appreciated that the logic flow merely provides an exemplary implementation of the general functionality. Further, the logic flow does not necessarily have to be executed in the order presented unless otherwise indicated. 
     The foregoing description of embodiments and examples has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the forms described. Numerous modifications are possible in light of the above teachings. Some of those modifications have been discussed, and others will be understood by those skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best illustrate principles of various embodiments as are suited to particular uses contemplated. The scope is, of course, not limited to the examples set forth herein, but can be employed in any number of applications and equivalent devices by those of ordinary skill in the art. Rather it is hereby intended the scope of the invention to be defined by the claims appended hereto.