Patent ID: 7451568

Claim:
A subsurface pest detection system in combination with a structure having a foundation, the system comprising: a tubular conduit disposed adjacent the foundation of the structure, the tubular conduit having a sidewall, a first end, a second end, and a plurality of pores extending through the sidewall of the tubular conduit, the tubular conduit having a substantially circular cross-sectional configuration and constructed of an elastomeric material such that upon applying a negative internal pressure to the tubular conduit the pores of the tubular conduit are caused to open to permit the drawing of gas into the tubular conduit, and upon removal of the negative internal pressure the pores are caused to close so that the pores remain substantially clog free; means for applying a negative internal pressure to the tubular conduit to cause the pores of the tubular conduit to open and cause gas to be drawn into the tubular conduit; and a gas detecting sensor in gas communication with the tubular conduit to monitor the gas in the tubular conduit for the presence of a gas that indicates the presence of pests near the foundation of the structure.