OBJECT DETECTION SYSTEMS

Abstract

Object detection systems are provided herein. An example system includes an enclosure formed by a sidewall to define an interaction volume, at least one light source for illuminating the interaction volume with a light, at least one light sensor that senses disturbances in light intensity due to scattering, reflection, or absorption of the light by objects within the interaction volume, and a controller that is configured to detect an object or object behavior within interaction volume based on the disturbances in the light intensity. The objection detection system may also include a trigger volume and/or a sorting volume.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present technology pertains to object detection systems, and more particularly, but not by limitation, to systems that are configured to detect the presence of objects in an illuminated interaction volume to determine object counts, object size, object movement, and so forth.

BACKGROUND

When the object detection system is combined with, or part of, an insect trap, it is desirable to get accurate counts while at the same time getting high-quality wingbeat recordings. Such recordings are best accomplished when the insect is in free flight. However, in the free flight scenario, it is possible that multiple counts are generated as the insect is free to enter and leave a detection area multiple times.

In order to get accurate counts, it is therefore necessary to trap the insect, for example entrapping it in an airflow that transfers the insect to a location from which it cannot escape (and thus is not counted multiple times). However, when the insect is entrapped in an airflow, it moves very fast and in unnatural ways, which negatively impacts the wingbeat measurement (if the insect is even still beating its wings).

Thus, on objective of the present invention to provide an improved object detection system that allows high-quality recordings while providing accurate counts. It is also an objective of the present invention to do this with high throughput. Another objective of the present invention is to sort insects that have passed through the object detection system based on parameters including but not limited to wingbeat.

SUMMARY

According to some embodiments, the present technology is directed to an object detection system, comprising: (a) a volume of space irradiated by light to define an interaction volume; (b) at least one light source for illuminating the interaction volume with a light; (c) at least one light sensor that senses disturbances in light intensity due to scattering, reflection, or absorption of the light by objects within the interaction volume; and (d) a controller that is configured to detect an object or object behavior within interaction volume based on the disturbances in the light intensity.

Some embodiments include the controller being further configured to: (1) modulate a frequency of the at least one light source to account for ambient light in the interaction volume; and (2) detect interactions by the insect within the interaction volume by: (i) detecting modifications of the modulated light by the objects; and (ii) differentiating the ambient light from the modulated light through signal processing.

In one embodiment, a modulation frequency is chosen to be above a frequency of fluctuations or oscillations of the ambient light.

In another embodiment, differentiating the ambient light from the modulated light through signal processing comprises suppressing a constant or variable background signal caused by an ambient light source, wherein the background signal comprises frequencies in the range of approximately 0 Hz to approximately 120 Hz, inclusive.

In yet another embodiment, the at least one light sensor comprises at least one of: (A) a bright field sensor disposed in a location inside or near the sidewall of the illuminated volume so as to allow the light to contact the bright field sensor, the bright field sensor indicating a reduction in the light intensity of the light; and (B) a dark field sensor disposed in a location inside or near the sidewall of the illuminated volume so as to prevent the light from contacting the dark field sensor, the dark field sensor indicating an increase in the light intensity of the light.

In one embodiment, the controller is further configured to detect a size of the objects.

In some embodiments, the at least one light source comprises a plurality of light sources. The controller is further configured to modulate a frequency of light emitted by each of the plurality of light sources such that the frequency of each of the plurality of light sources is different from one another.

According to some embodiments, the system further comprises an attracting light source.

In yet another embodiment, the at least one light sensor is positioned in a location comprising any of: (1) a location suitable for sensing light that passes through and exits the interaction volume; (2) a location suitable for sensing light scattered or reflected but not light passing through and exiting the interaction volume; and (3) a location for sensing the light intensity present in the interaction volume.

In some embodiments, the at least one sensor has a spectral sensitivity response with a maximum near a peak emission of a light source.

In one embodiment, the at least one light sensor comprises a plurality of light sensors, wherein each of a plurality of light sensors has a maximum sensitivity near a peak emission of at least one of a plurality of light sources.

In another embodiment, the controller is further configured to time stamp signals received from the at least one light sensor.

In some embodiments, the objects sensed are insects, further wherein the controller is further configured to detect and record a sequence, the sequence comprising a first time at which an insect is not present in the interaction volume, a second time at which an insect is present in the interaction volume, and a third time at which the insect is not present in the interaction volume, wherein detecting the sequence indicates a count of an insect in the interaction volume.

In one embodiment, the objects sensed are insects, further wherein the controller is further configured to calculate a wing beat frequency of an insect by detecting a waveform of light that is resultant from a modulation of light intensity by the wing beat frequency.

In one embodiment, the objects sensed are insects, further wherein the controller is further configured to calculate a wing beat frequency of an insect by: (1) modulating the light intensity of the at least one light source with a carrier frequency that is higher than the wing beat frequency of the insect to create a modulated waveform; and (2) detecting a waveform of light that is resultant from a modulation of the carrier frequency by the wing beat frequency.

In an embodiment, the controller comprises an envelope filter that removes the carrier frequency from the modulated waveform.

In some embodiments, an inner surface of the enclosure is a retro-reflective surface reflecting the light emitted by the light source.

In yet other embodiments, the interaction volume comprises a funnel and a trap disposed on opposing ends of the interaction volume.

In one embodiment, the at least one light source comprises any of a light emitting diode, a line laser, or combinations thereof.

According to some embodiments, the at least one sensor comprises any of a photodiode, a phototransistor, a charge coupled device, a position-sensitive detector, a solar cell, a photovoltaic cell, an antenna, a thermopile, or any combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, at least one light sensor comprises an array comprising a plurality of individual photodiodes, the plurality of individual photodiodes being electrically coupled in series, at least one of the plurality of individual photodiodes is masked by an object so as to receive less light than non-masked ones of the plurality of individual photodiodes in order to reduce a current through the array, which results in an increase in a sensitivity of the non-masked ones of the plurality of individual photodiodes.

In one embodiment, at least one light sensor comprises an array comprising a plurality of individual photodiodes, the plurality of individual photodiodes being electrically coupled in parallel, at least one of the plurality of individual photodiodes is masked so as to receive less light than non-masked ones of the plurality of individual photodiodes in order to reduce a current through the array.

According to some embodiments, the present technology is directed to an object detection system comprising: (a) a light source comprising a linear array of light emitting devices; (b) a light sensor comprising at least one linear array of photodiodes and at least one linear array of solar cells, wherein at least one of the solar cells is masked so as to receive less light than non-masked ones of the solar cells in order to reduce a current through the array, which results in an increase in a sensitivity of the non-masked ones of the solar cells; (c) an interaction volume defined by a space between the light source and the light sensor, wherein the space between the light source and the light sensor allows for uniform light intensity throughout the interaction volume; and (d) wherein the light sensor senses disturbances in the light intensity indicative of a presence of an object in the interaction volume.

According to some embodiments, the present technology is directed to an object detection system comprising: (a) an interaction volume; (b) a trigger volume; and (c) at least one controller that is configured to continuously record, and store in memory, object behavior within the interaction volume, and configured to detect an object within the trigger volume, where the trigger volume is separate from the interaction volume, and where the controller retrieves from memory one or more records of behavior when an object has been detected in the trigger volume.

According to some embodiments, the present technology is directed to an object detection system comprising: (a) an interaction volume; and (b) a sorting volume separate from the interaction volume, where the sorting volume directs object to one or more holding locations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate embodiments of concepts that include the claimed disclosure, and explain various principles and advantages of those embodiments.

The methods and systems disclosed herein have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example object detection system of the present technology.

FIG. 2 is a schematic flow diagram of an example controller and object detection method for use in accordance with the present technology.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of another example object detection system of the present technology.

FIG. 4 is a schematic flow diagram of another example controller and object detection method for use in accordance with the present technology.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of another example object detection system of the present technology.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of yet another example object detection system of the present technology.

FIG. 7 illustrates a plurality of example light sources.

FIG. 8 illustrates a plurality of example light detectors.

FIG. 9 illustrates a selection of an example light source and an example light detector for use in an object detection system.

FIG. 10 is a top down view of an object detection system using the example light source and example light detector of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the object detection system of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a light intensity model of the object detection system of FIGS. 10-11.

FIGS. 13 and 14 are graphs illustrating the detection of insects (e.g., objects within the object detection system of FIGS. 10-11.

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of an example machine in the form of a computer system that can be used to implement aspects of the present technology.

FIG. 16 shows exemplary light sources.

FIG. 17 shows exemplary light sensors.

FIG. 18 shows exemplary illuminated interaction volumes.

FIG. 19 shows exemplary wingbeat detection systems.

FIG. 20 shows one exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21 shows another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 22 shows exemplary dark field sensing embodiments.

FIG. 23 shows additional exemplary dark field sensing embodiments.

FIG. 24 schematically shows the two-dimensional array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which may emit the same or different wavelengths of light.

FIG. 25 shows one exemplary embodiment of an insect sensor.

FIG. 26 shows an exemplary bottom view of an exemplary insect sensor.

FIG. 27 shows one exemplary embodiment of a mosquito trap.

FIG. 28 shows another exemplary embodiment of a mosquito trap.

FIG. 29 shows an exemplary wingbeat recording.

FIG. 30 shows an exemplary spectrogram.

FIG. 31 schematically shows an embodiment utilizing a trigger volume.

FIG. 32 shows an exemplary wingbeat recording from the embodiment utilizing a trigger volume.

FIGS. 33A, 33B, 33C show an exemplary embodiment for sorting detected objects.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is now described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. The present disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as necessarily being limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that the disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the concepts of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Also, features described with respect to certain example embodiments may be combined in and/or with various other example embodiments. Different aspects and/or elements of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, may be combined in a similar manner. Further, at least some example embodiments may individually and/or collectively be components of a larger system, wherein other procedures may take precedence over and/or otherwise modify their application. Additionally, a number of steps may be required before, after, and/or concurrently with example embodiments, as disclosed herein. Note that any and/or all methods and/or processes, at least as disclosed herein, can be at least partially performed via at least one entity, at least as described herein, in any manner, irrespective of the at least one entity have any relationship to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

In agriculture and public health, surveillance of insects with respect to species and abundance is important. There are many insects that are pests (damaging property and crops), nuisances (causing discomfort to people and animals), disease-causing vectors, or a combination. Vectors transmit microorganisms that cause disease or otherwise harm people, animals, crops and beneficial plants. Only female insects needing blood meals to reproduce bite humans and transmit disease. Of particular concern are malaria, Dengue fever, West Nile Virus, Zika virus, elephantiasis and many other serious and often fatal diseases.

Currently, insect surveillance is done by entomologists manually counting insects caught in traps. This approach is time-consuming, labor-intensive and costly. Moreover, it does not provide real-time data, i.e. there are delays until appropriate action can be taken. Also, the data density is usually sparse.

A good example is given by the recent appearance in the US of an important disease vector, the mosquito species Aedes aegypti. This mosquito is not indigenous to the US and is of great concern because of its ability to transmit dengue fever and Zika, and its adaption to human habitation. Mosquito control agencies desire to eradicate the mosquito before it has a chance to get established and spread from the initial area of introduction. The process is to set up traps around a location where the invading mosquito species was found, attempt to determine how far it has spread, and apply chemicals to kill adults and larvae in targeted areas. Other control measures include reducing breeding grounds such as standing water in containers around houses. The efficacy of treatment is confirmed by trapping. Unfortunately, only a few (often less than 10) traps are typically used in areas that may cover many square miles. This is due to the labor required for setting traps, retrieving the catch and taking it to a laboratory for counting and classification. Furthermore, surveillance of the population over extended periods of time to optimize control measures and verify their efficacy is often not possible due to budget constraints.

While most mosquito control measures involve applying chemicals that kill adults or larvae, alternative biological methods are currently under development. These methods involve the breeding and release of male mosquitoes that have been modified to render eggs unviable or to produce sterile offspring. The concept is that the released male mosquitoes compete with wild males and mate with at least a portion of the wild female population thus reducing offspring capable of transmitting disease. Repeated releases gradually reduce the wild population until it gets so small that either effective disease transmission is no longer possible, or the mosquito population collapses or remains at a very low level. These methods depend on the release of modified males only; females are not desired and detrimental to the effort. One strategy is to sort young adult mosquitoes, and eliminate females, before release. This process is currently based on size or weight differences between male and female mosquito larvae and much less than 100% accurate. A detector capable of differentiating males and females in combination with a sorting device to separate females or a killing device to kill them would solve this problem. Mosquito sex can be determined by measuring wing beat frequency. Typical mosquito wing beat frequencies are around 500 Hz, differing by species, sex, age and other factors. However, given just one species and controlled conditions, the difference in wing beat frequency (lower in females) can be used to positively identify females and eliminate them from the population of biologically modified mosquitoes to be released.

While effective traps exist to attract and catch insects, no devices to count, classify or sort insects automatically are currently available in the marketplace. It is therefore desirable to provide an object detection system (ODS) which can be used to count insects, and to provide information about wing beat frequency, size and anatomical features of the insect as well as other biological or environmental parameters. Moreover, it is desirable to provide an object detection system that has communication means to remotely report at least the number of detected objects such as insects, and is in communication with trapping, sorting or killing means for at least a portion of the detected insects.

In some embodiments, the present technology provides a volume of space is irradiated with light from a light source. Objects in the volume of light (for example, flying insects) modify the light intensity by absorbing, scattering and reflecting light, resulting in a change of light intensity in the volume (“bright field”) and outside the volume (“dark field”). A light-sensitive detector comprising multiple light-sensitive elements is placed in a location suitable for detecting light from the volume. The light-sensitive detector is connected to a means for signal processing for object presence determination. When objects enter the volume of space from one direction and thereafter leave it in the same or another direction, the detector records a sequence of transitions of the object presence signal that is used for counting the objects. If the objects are insects, the detected light also carries information about biological parameters that is extracted by signal processing and allows classification. The detection system is in communication with a database and a cell phone or computer user or other means capable of taking an action.

The term “light” is used to refer to the electromagnetic radiation used in the invention. Commonly, “light” designates electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet (UV), visible, infrared (IR) and microwave part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Light in all these spectral ranges may be used in the present technology.

These and other advantages of the present technology are described with reference to the collective drawings.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an example object detection system 100 (also referred to as device 100) is illustrated. The system generally comprises an interaction volume 102 and a controller 104.

In some embodiments, the system 100 according to the present technology comprises at least one light source, an interaction volume, at least one light sensor, and means for analog-to-digital conversion, signal processing, counting, and data communication. Another attribute of the system is that has the ability to attach time and date stamps to all recorded data, and is in communication with a remote database or human operators. In some embodiments, the system 100 comprises means to take an action such as trapping, killing, identifying or sorting, if the objects are insects.

According to some embodiments, the interaction volume 102 includes open ends 102A and 102B that allow for the passage of objects, such as mosquitoes 101, 103A, and 103B through the interaction volume 102. In some embodiments, air passes through the interaction volume 102 in a direction D.

In some embodiments, the interaction volume 102 is an enclosure formed from a sidewall 106. The sidewall 106 can be continuous or comprised of sidewall segments in some embodiments. The sidewall 106 illustrated forms a cylindrical enclosure although other shapes are also likewise contemplated for use in accordance with the present technology. The enclosure defines a three dimensional volume. Again, the volume illustrated FIG. 1 is cylindrical, but other three dimensional shapes such as a cone, a cube, a pie wedge, a box, a cuboid, or even an irregularly shaped three dimensional volume.

In one embodiment, the interaction volume 102 contains a plurality of smaller volumes that are overlapping, adjacent or separated by small volumes of space.

In some embodiments, the interaction volume 102 has a cross section and a height, with height being the smallest of three dimensions. The cross section is at least one centimeter squared and the height is at least one tenth of a millimeter.

In some embodiments, the sidewall 106 is manufactured from a transparent or semi-transparent material. In another embodiment, the sidewall 106 is manufactured from an opaque material. In yet other embodiments, the sidewall 106 is manufactured from sections of transparent material and opaque material. The exact configuration of the sidewall 106 depends upon the light sources and light sensors used for the device 100, as will be described in greater detail below.

In some embodiments, the device 100 includes a light source 108 and a light detector or sensor 110. Both the light source 108 and light detector 110 are positioned in association with the device 100. The exact position of both the light source 108 and light sensor 110 depend upon the composition of both the light source 108 and light sensor 110.

In some embodiments, the light source 108 is a light emitting diode (LED) or an array of LEDs that emit light through the sidewall 106. The LED(s) light will emit light at a particular frequency or range of frequencies. Thus, the light sensor 110 is disposed on an opposing side of the sidewall 106 and is configured to measure light relative to that frequency or frequencies.

In another embodiment, the light source 108 comprises an illuminated strip of LEDs, or a backlight similar to light sources used in flat panel displays or car instrument panels.

In one embodiment, the light source 108 is a light emitting laser. For example, the light source 108 could comprise a line laser.

In one embodiment, the light source 108 emits light in the UV or visible range. In one embodiment, the light source 108 emits light in the infrared (IR) range. IR light is present in an ambient light background at a level lower than visible or UV light and thus IR illumination facilitates background suppression. Also, certain insects such as mosquitoes do not perceive IR light, so an IR light emitting source can be used in embodiments where the system 100 is configured to detect mosquitoes.

The light emitted by the light source 108 can be shaped by means such as lenses, reflectors, line generators and diffusers. For example, the device 100 can include a light shaping member 112 that can include any combination (or one of) lenses, reflectors, line generators and diffusers—just to name a few.

In one embodiment, the light emitted from a light source is distributed throughout the interaction volume 102 using at least one light shaping member 112 selected from a list comprising lenses, Fresnel lenses, cylindrical lenses, mirrors, reflectors, retro-reflectors, filters (comprising high-pass, low-pass, band-path and dichroic), beam blocks, beam splitters, apertures, beam dumps, shutters, absorbers, diffusers and laser line generators.

Objects in the interaction volume 102 interact with the light produced by the light source 108. Example modes of interaction comprise absorption, reflection and scattering. The light interaction/modification results in change in an intensity of light from the light source 108, such as a reduction in light intensity. Again, at least one light sensor 110 is placed in a location suitable for detecting the change in light level within the interaction volume 102.

In one embodiment, the light source 108 emits a collimated beam (for example, a laser spot) or a thin sheet of light (for example, a laser line). In another embodiment, the light source 108 resembles a floodlight emitting light into a range of angles (for example, an LED).

The light sensor 110 can include one or a plurality of light sensors. In some embodiments, the light sensor 110 comprises at least one light-sensitive element that is placed in at least one location relative to the enclosure. In one embodiment, the location where the light sensor is located is suitable for sensing light that passes through and exits the enclosure. In another embodiment, the location where the light sensor is a location suitable for sensing light scattered or reflected, but not on a straight line between the light source 108 and the light sensor 110 disposed near an exit of the enclosure. In yet another embodiment, the location where the light sensor 110 is located is selected for suitable sensing of the light intensity present within in the enclosure.

In some embodiments, the light sensor 110 comprises a light-sensitive element chosen from the list comprising photodiodes, phototransistors, charge coupled devices, position-sensitive detectors, solar cells/panels, antennas, and thermopiles. In one embodiment, a light sensor 110 comprises a single light-sensitive element (for example a photodiode or phototransistor). In one embodiment, a light sensor 110 comprises a linear array of light-sensitive elements (for example: a photodiode array). In one embodiment, a light sensor 110 comprises an imaging device such as a two-dimensional matrix of light-sensitive elements. Image sensors may be of the type used in consumer electronics (e.g., cell phones cameras) and based on photodiodes, charge controlled devices, or complementary metal oxide semiconductor pixels. Another light sensor 110 is a high-speed camera. In one embodiment, a light sensor 110 comprises a spectrometer. In one embodiment, a light sensor 110 comprises a line scan camera. To be sure, combinations of these various light sensors can also likewise be utilized. Again, the exact type of light sensor(s) selected will depend upon the light source(s) utilized and the type of objects being sensed.

To be sure, there are many locations that can be chosen to position a light source and a light sensor relative to the interaction volume 102, in part depending on the configuration of the object-detecting device such as the shape of the interaction volume 102, and the combination with a device to sort the objects according to a property of the object.

In one embodiment, the spectral sensitivity response of a light sensor has a maximum near the peak emission of a light-emitting element. In one embodiment, each of a plurality of light-sensitive elements has maximum sensitivity near the peak emission of at least one of a plurality of light-emitting elements. In one embodiment, a light sensor is equipped with a filter to transmit the wavelength of a light-emitting element. In one embodiment, a plurality of light sensing elements senses light from light-emitting elements with different modulation frequencies.

When the light sensor 110 is continuously illuminated by a light source 108, an object entering the interaction volume 102 will modify the light intensity. A modification of the light intensity includes, in some instances, a reduction of light intensity at the light sensor 110. This change in intensity is resulting from the light sensor 110 operating in bright field mode.

Since an object can enter the interaction volume 102 at any location, either focusing or reflecting optics are needed if the light sensor 110 has a small area. An example photodiode has an active area of about seven square millimeters. The present technology, in some embodiments, employs a large-area detector to eliminate the need for such optics.

The light source 108 and light sensor 110 are both controlled by the controller 104. In some embodiments, the controller 104 comprises a processor 105, an analog signal processor 114, an analog to digital converter (also referenced as A/D converter) 116, a digital signal processor 118, a count and other parameters module 120, a local data storage 122, a data communication interface (also referenced as a communication module) 124, a remote database 126, an end user computer 130, and an action module 132.

As used herein, the terms “module” and/or “engine” may also refer to any of an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and/or other suitable components that provide the described functionality.

In some embodiments, the controller 104 controls the light source 108 to emit light into the interaction volume 102. In one embodiment, the intensity of light source 108 is modulated by the controller 104 with a periodic waveform or carrier frequency using the digital signal processor 118. The frequency utilized can be selected from a list comprising the following types: a rectangular wave and a sine wave.

In one embodiment, the modulation frequency is greater or equal to 100 Hz. In another embodiment, the modulation frequency is 3 kHz, 5 kHz, 10 kHz, 30 kHz, 33 kHz, 36 kHz, 38 kHz, 40 kHz and 56 kHz. It is not necessary for a modulated light source to have a minimum intensity of zero or to even be periodic; rather, the property that the intensity is time-dependent following a predefined pattern is the advantageous to the operation of the device 100.

In one embodiment, the controller 104 controls the digital signal processor to control a plurality of light-emitting elements such that each is modulated at different frequencies.

It should be noted that the change in light due to the presence of an object in the interaction volume 102 is not constant, rather it is a time-dependent function of the object's speed, shape, orientation, size, motion such as wing beat (which changes the amount of light in a rhythmic pattern), and other intrinsic and environmental parameters.

The light sensor 110 also is subject to impingement by ambient background light, such as light not originating from the light source 108 or object but from sources nearby the device 100. The ambient background light can be significant and possibly exceed the signal generated by an object within the interaction volume 102.

A relatively slowly changing ambient light background, as well as a constant light level from the illumination can effectively be separated from the object signal by filtering of a detector output. For example, the analog signal processor 114 can comprise high-pass filter or a band-pass filter to suppress a constant offset or specific frequencies such as a 100 or 120 Hz frequency entering the interaction volume 102 from an artificial light source, respectively. Alternatively, the light intensity of the light source 108 can be modulated by the controller 104 using a carrier frequency. A digital signal processor 118 can be used to extract an object signal by separating the carrier frequency from the signal received by the light sensor 110. That is, the signal received by the light sensor 110 is a combination of the object signal and ambient light signal. When the carrier frequency is removed, only the object signal remains.

When more than one light source is used, the controller 104 may impose upon each one of the light sources a different modulation frequency or light wavelength. This allows the interaction volume 102 to have different regions and provide an indication of the object's location with greater precision that when only one light source is utilized.

According to the present technology, objects such as insects enter the interaction volume 102 at a point in space, remain there for a period of time, and leave it at another point in space. Usually, the objects move in only one direction. For example, insects are either flying towards an attractant or being swept along by airflow through the interaction volume 102.

When objects enter the interaction volume 102, the light sensor 110 picks up a change in light intensity characteristic of their presence, and another change in light intensity when the objects leave the volume. While the objects remain in the interaction volume 102, light level changes encode additional information about the object such as biological and environmental information. Using analog and digital signal processing and counting means, these light level changes are processed by the controller 104 and result in data indicating object count as well as certain other information.

For example, a bigger object leads to a larger change in light level as sensed by the light sensor 110. Insects beating their wings while in the interaction volume 102 cause changing amounts of absorbed, scattered and reflected light corresponding to the wing beat frequency. Multiple objects simultaneously present in the interaction volume 102 result in a signal that is a combination of individual object signals.

The controller 104 is configured to provide a variety of signal processing features. The light source 108, ambient light, noise and the object-dependent signal are sensed by the light sensor 110 and contribute to a light sensor output.

The output of the light sensor 110 depends on the number of objects present in the interaction volume 102. While ambient light is constant or slowly varying, the light absorbed, reflected, scattered or otherwise modified by the objects in the interaction volume 102 varies over time. According to the present technology, the object-dependent signal is extracted from the light sensor 110 output with a combination of analog and digital signal processing, as mentioned above.

Initially, a time-dependent signal is generated. The digital signal processor 118 uses local data storage 122 to record time-dependent signals and a computing means such as a microprocessor or microcontroller (referred to as processor 105). A microcontroller comprises a microprocessor and input/output functions including analog-to-digital converter 116.

Some embodiments of the present technology comprise a method for data acquisition and signal processing. For example, the controller 104 can be configured to provide analog signal conditioning for the output of the light sensor 110.

In some embodiments, the controller 104 is configured to perform analog to digital signal conversion of the output of the light sensor 110 using the analog to digital converter 116 and digital signal processor 118. The controller 104 can also use analog signal conditioning, demodulation and amplification using an integrated circuit resulting in a bi-level (high/low) electronic “object presence” signal. The controller 104 also employs A/D conversion and digital signal processing.

Examples for analog signal conditioning are high-pass, low-pass and band-pass filters.

In one embodiment, the A/D converter 116 uses a binary input port on a microcontroller. In one embodiment, the A/D converter 116 is an analog input port on a microcontroller. In one embodiment, the A/D converter 116 uses is an integrated circuit connected to a digital input (such as a serial port) on a microcontroller.

Analog as well as digital signal processing comprise one or more techniques from the list comprising filters, amplification, comparison, thresholding, correlation, deconvolution, pattern recognition and demodulation—just to name a few.

In operation, when an object enters the interaction volume 102 and thereafter leaves, the controller records a sequence of transitions (no object present-<object present-<no object present), which is used for counting objects. The light produced by the light source 108 also carries information about objects such as wing beat frequency, size and other features of the object that is extracted from a light sensor output using the signal processing means of the controller 104.

The communication module 124 can comprise an interface for bi-directional data communication to transfer insect counts and other information between the device 100, a remote database 126, an end user computer 130, and an action module 132. Information from the database is used for monitoring, report generation and initiation of action. Bi-directional communication also allows a user to configure the device 100, for example, reset the object counter to zero, initiate object counting, or enter the GPS location of the device 100 deployed in the field.

In one embodiment, the communication module 124 comprises at least one of a wired connection; a wireless connection; a TCP/IP connection; a removable memory device (e.g. flash card or USB stick); a cellular modem; a WiFi adapter; and a Bluetooth adapter; active and passive RFID—just to name a few.

In one embodiment, the device 100 is configured to attach time and date stamps to all data being recorded such as insect present events, biological parameters and environmental sensor readings.

Referring now to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, a wing beat frequency is determined as follows. A light source is illuminated in step 205. Next, an insect enters the interaction volume in step 210. In some embodiments, light source intensity is modulated by the controller 104 (FIG. 1), with a carrier frequency higher than the wing beat frequency of the insect.

If an object insect is present, the carrier frequency is modulated by the wing beat frequency resulting in sensed light at the light sensor 110 having an intensity waveform as illustrated in graph 215.

An ambient light background may be also present but is not modulated. This waveform is detected by the light sensor 110 in step 220. The light is conditioned (a high-pass filter or a band-pass filter allowing only signal at the modulation frequency to pass) in step 225 using the analog filter and converted into digital form by an A/D converter of the multi-level type in step 230.

An envelope filter removes the carrier frequency from the modulated waveform in step 235. The wing beat frequency then appears on the output and is subjected to further signal processing to extract the insect present signal as well as a numerical value for the wing beat frequency in step 240.

FIG. 3 is another example object detection device 300 that is similar to the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the exception that the light sensor of the device 300 is divided between a dark field light sensor 305 and a bright field light sensor 310.

FIG. 4 illustrates signal and data flow in one embodiment of the present technology, using another example device 400. The device 400 of FIG. 4 is similar to the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the exception that several additional modules are present. In particular, the device 400 comprises temperature and relative humidity sensors 405, a wind speed sensor 410, and a clock 415 for time and date stamping data.

In one embodiment, the device 400 comprises at least one environmental sensor from the list comprising temperature and humidity, day light, rain fall amount, cloud cover, wind speed and wind direction—just to name a few.

To be sure, light intensity is measured and processed by the device 400 using any of the aforementioned processes. These signals are used by counter 420 and wing beat value 425 modules. Information from the temperature and relative humidity sensors 405, a wind speed sensor 410, counter module 420 and wing beat value module 425 is stored in local storage 430. Again, this information can also be transmitted using the communication module, such as a cellular modem 435 (or other wired or wireless communications module), providing data to a remote database or end user computer such as a cell phone, Smartphone, laptop, PC, server, or other computing device.

Referring now to FIG. 5, another example device 500 is illustrated. An interaction volume 505 is a plastic cylinder of a diameter of about 11+/−2.5 cm and a height of about 2.5 cm which is easily fitted to existing insect trap 501 such as the mosquito traps type Sentinel™ or Mosquitaire™, manufactured by Biogents™, Regensburg, Germany. The device employs a fan to generate airflow to draw insects into a catch container or net inside. The device 500 also comprises a 12V power supply to which the device 500 is connected and draws its power.

A light source 510 comprises infrared LEDs at a peak emission wavelength of about 940 nm (NTE3027 or similar) mounted to the interaction volume 505 at three locations (Location 1, 2 and 3) about 120 degrees apart, facing inward. Each location such as Location 2, comprises three LEDs 510A-C, along a height. In some embodiments, each LED emits a cone of light with a half-power angle of about 45 degrees. The cones partially overlap and the entire interaction volume 505 is flooded with LED light. The LEDs are modulated at a frequency of about 10 kHz, i.e. about ten times a typical mosquito wing beat frequency using a DSP (digital signal processing) module 515. The DSP module 515 comprises a microcontroller.

The inside of the interaction volume 505 comprises a retro-reflective surface reflecting the radiation emitted by each LED rearwardly to increase the light intensity inside the interaction volume 505. In one embodiment, retro-reflective tape is applied to the inside of the interaction volume 505.

A light sensor 520 comprises a phototransistor (type NTE3033 or similar) and is mounted to the bottom of the DSP module 515, in the center of the interaction volume 505 and facing downwardly. The light sensor 520 has a nominal collection angle of about 65 degrees. In order to obtain a full cross-sectional view of the illuminated interaction volume, the light sensor 520 is mounted approximately 11 cm above the top of the interaction volume 505.

This embodiment utilizes a dark field method for detecting light. For example, if an insect is present, it reflects or scatters light towards the light sensor 520.

A cellular modem module 525 is provided in the device 500 and is combined with the microcontroller, both being packaged in a waterproof upper housing 530 that is appropriate for an outdoor environment. The microcontroller also provides local storage for insect count and other parameters, as well as a USB connection for communication with a PC or handheld device, and a removable flash card for extended local storage.

The interaction volume 505 and light source 510 are mounted inside a bottom housing 535 that is fitted to an intake funnel 503 of a trap 501. The upper housing is attached about 11+/−5 cm above the bottom housing using three posts. This construction allows the airflow generated by a fan inside the trap to flow into the interaction volume 505 unimpeded.

A space 545 between the bottom housing and the upper housing is selectively adjustable to optimize sensitivity.

Referring now to FIG. 6, another example device 600 is illustrated. The device 600 comprises an interaction volume 605 (shown in top view on the left), which comprises a plastic cylinder of a diameter of about 11+/−2.5 cm and a height of about 2.5 cm. This device is easily fitted to an existing insect trap 601 such as the mosquito traps type Sentinel™ or Mosquitaire™, manufactured by Biogents™, Regensburg, Germany. The device 600 uses a fan to generate airflow to draw insects into a catch container or net inside. They also comprise a 12V power supply to which a device 600 according to the present invention is connected and draws its power.

A light source 610, such as a line laser with a wavelength of 650 nm and a power of 5 mW is provided in the device 600. The light detector 615 is a solar panel of the type, such as an IXYS SLMD121H09L (nine light-sensitive elements connected in series). In one embodiment, the device uses analog signal processing comprising an active Sallen-Key high-pass filter with a cut-off of 23 Hz to filter out the constant background from the light source 610 and the ambient environment, as well as amplification of light intensity signals.

A DSP module 620 comprises a microcontroller, and a cellular modem module 625 comprises a cellular modem in communication with the microcontroller, both packaged in a waterproof upper housing appropriate for an outdoor environment. The microcontroller also provides local storage for insect count and other parameters, as well as a USB connection for communication with a PC or handheld device, and a removable flash card for extended local storage.

The interaction volume 605 and light source 610 are mounted inside a bottom housing 630 that is fitted to an intake funnel 603 of a trap 601. An upper housing 640 is attached about 11+/−5 cm above the bottom housing 630 using three posts. This construction allows the airflow generated by the fan inside the trap to flow into the illuminated interaction volume unimpeded. As with the device 500 of FIG. 5, a space between the bottom housing and the upper housing is adjustable to optimize sensitivity.

FIG. 7 illustrates various arrays used in light sources. Light source 700 includes a linear array of LEDs. Light source 705 comprises two linear arrays of LEDs. Linear array 710 comprises five linear arrays of LEDs.

FIG. 8 illustrates various arrays used in light sensors. Light sensor 800 comprises a linear array of photodiodes. Light sensor 805 comprises two linear arrays of solar cells. Light sensor 810 comprises a linear array of photodiodes 815 and two linear arrays of solar cells 820 and 825.

Light sensor 830 comprises two linear arrays of photodiodes. Light sensor 835 comprises a linear array of photodiodes and a single solar cell that extends the length of the light sensor 835.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example selection of a matched light source 900 and light sensor 905. The light source 900 comprises a linear array of LEDs 910. The light sensor 905 comprises two linear arrays of solar cells and a linear array of photodiodes. In order to achieve uniform sensitivity, the length L.sub.1 of the LED array exceeds the length L2 of the detector arrays. The light source 900 and light sensor 905 are configured for use in an interaction volume 915, as illustrated in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11.

As an example, in order to obtain an interaction volume 915 with uniform sensitivity, the following design can be employed. The light source is a strip of infrared LEDs emitting at 875 nm mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) of dimensions 164.times.35 mm (LED width: 2.34 mm (max); LED height: 2.16 mm (max); Pitch: 5.0 mm; Total width: 147.34 mm [(30-1).times.5+2.34]; Center line: 5 mm from top edge; Middle at 82 mm from left/right edge).

Six strings of five LEDs in series are connected to a current controller. The light sensor 905 comprises two channels. A first channel comprises a strip of infrared photodiodes and a second channel comprises two rows of solar cells. These channels are mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) of dimensions 164.times.35 mm.

With respect to channel one: photodiode width: 2.34 mm (max); photodiode height: 2.16 mm (max); Pitch: 2.5 mm; Total width: 102.34 mm [(41-1).times.2.5+2.34]; Center line: 5 mm from top edge; Middle at 82 mm from left/right edge. With respect to channel two: 10.times.Si Solar Cell; Width: 22 mm; Height: 7.5 mm; Pitch: 23 mm; Offset top to bottom row: 5 mm; White stripe is cathode (−); Total width: 117 mm; Top: 10 mm from PCB top edge; Middle at 82 mm from left/right edge.

In some embodiments, the LED array is longer than the sensor array by about 50%, which results in uniform illumination of the interaction volume and the sensor array, resulting in uniform intensity.

The photodiode array and the solar cell array are each wired in parallel, which results in uniform, smooth sensitivity, as evidenced in a model of FIG. 12, even with gaps between individual LEDs and sensor elements (or “pixels”). These particular configurations provide unexpected results in their remarkable uniformity with respect to light intensity.

FIG. 12 illustrates a model of light in the interaction volume in the device of FIGS. 9-11. The model illustrates that even with the discrete nature and small area of the LEDs and photodiodes, smooth and uniform sensitivity is obtained for objects passing through the interaction volume. As an object travels through the interaction volume perpendicular to the plane defined by the light sources and detectors, part of the light from the illumination is obscured, resulting in a change of light hitting the detector. This light change is detected and processed using any of the methods described above. The aspect of uniform sensitivity allows object size classification by light intensity changes.

FIG. 13 is a graph obtained using the device of FIGS. 9-11. The graph illustrates a signal that was obtained from the photodiode array with a mosquito passing through the interaction volume. The size of its shadow changes as it beats its wings. This wingbeat modulation is clearly visible. Also, the amplitude of the signal depends on the size of the object. Both signal amplitude and modulations are used to distinguish different type of insects, and to distinguish living objects (e.g. insects) from inanimate objects (e.g. raindrops).

FIG. 14 is another graph obtained using the device of FIGS. 9-11. The graph illustrates a signal that was obtained from the solar cell array. Since the solar cells are larger, a signal is recorded for a longer time, so more cycles of the modulation due to wingbeat can be observed and be used for discrimination between different kinds of insects.

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of an example machine in the form of a computer system 1, within which a set of instructions for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein may be executed. In various example embodiments, the machine operates as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in a server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may be a robotic construction marking device, a base station, a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, a portable music player (e.g., a portable hard drive audio device such as an Moving Picture Experts Group Audio Layer 3 (MP3) player), a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.

The example computer system 1 includes a processor or multiple processors 5 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both), and a main memory 10 and static memory 15, which communicate with each other via a bus 20. The computer system 1 may further include a video display 35 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)). The computer system 1 may also include an alpha-numeric input device(s) 30 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a voice recognition or biometric verification unit (not shown), a drive unit 37 (also referred to as disk drive unit), a signal generation device 40 (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device 45. The computer system 1 may further include a data encryption module (not shown) to encrypt data.

The disk drive unit 37 includes a computer or machine-readable medium 50 on which is stored one or more sets of instructions and data structures (e.g., instructions 55) embodying or utilizing any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The instructions 55 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 10 and/or within the processors 5 during execution thereof by the computer system 1. The main memory 10 and the processors 5 may also constitute machine-readable media.

The instructions 55 may further be transmitted or received over a network via the network interface device 45 utilizing any one of a number of well-known transfer protocols (e.g., Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP)). While the machine-readable medium 50 is shown in an example embodiment to be a single medium, the term “computer-readable medium” should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable medium” shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and that causes the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present application, or that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying data structures utilized by or associated with such a set of instructions. The term “computer-readable medium” shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic media, and carrier wave signals. Such media may also include, without limitation, hard disks, floppy disks, flash memory cards, digital video disks, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), and the like. The example embodiments described herein may be implemented in an operating environment comprising software installed on a computer, in hardware, or in a combination of software and hardware.

Not all components of the computer system 1 are required and thus portions of the computer system 1 can be removed if not needed, such as I/O devices.

According to further exemplary embodiments, a volume of space is irradiated with light from a light source. Objects in the volume of light (for example, flying insects or manufactured articles) modify the light intensity by absorbing, scattering and reflecting light, resulting in a change of the intensity of light exiting from the volume. A light sensor having a light-sensitive area is placed in a location suitable for detecting light from the volume. The light sensor is connected to means for amplifying, filtering and digitizing the light signal and to digital signal processing means.

When objects enter the volume of space from one direction and thereafter leave it in the same or another direction, the light sensor records changes in the light intensity which are used for the detection of the presence of objects, counting of objects, determining object size, or (if the object is an insect) extracting a wingbeat signal comprising at least a fundamental frequency and optionally harmonic frequencies.

The term “light” is used to refer to the electromagnetic radiation used in the invention. Commonly, “light” designates electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared (IR) part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Light in all these spectral ranges may be used in the invention.

An Object Detection System (ODS) according to the present invention comprises at least one light source, an illuminated interaction volume (IIV), at least one light sensor with an area, and means for signal amplification, conditioning, analog-to-digital conversion, signal processing, counting, and data communication. Another attribute of the invention is the ability to attach time and date stamps to all recorded data, and communication with a remote database.

The light sensor has an area to increase the amount of collected light. Typical light detectors such as photodiodes have a very small active (light-sensitive) surface. In accordance with the present invention, the area may be increased with the combination of a lens with a light detector, or by arranging multiple light detectors in a one- or two-dimensional array.

It should be noted that the change in light due to the presence of an object is not constant, rather it is a time-dependent function of the object's speed, shape, orientation, size, motion comprising wing beat (which changes the amount of light in a rhythmic pattern), and other intrinsic and environmental parameters.

There are many locations that can be chosen to position a light source and a light sensor, in part depending on the configuration of the object-detecting device such as the shape of the IIV, and the combination with a device to sort the objects according to a property of the object.

The light sensor also is subject to impingement by ambient background light, that is, light not originating from the light source or object but from sources nearby the device. The ambient background light can be significant and possibly exceed the signal generated by an object.

In one embodiment of an ODS according to the present invention, objects such as insects enter the illuminated interaction volume at a point in space, remain there for a period of time, and leave it at another point in space. Usually, they move in only one direction; for example, insects are either flying towards an attractant or being swept along by airflow. When objects enter the volume, the light sensor picks up a change in light intensity characteristic of their presence, and another change when objects leave the volume. While the objects remain in the IIV, light level changes encode additional information about the object such as biological and environmental information.

It is desirable to extend the time the object spends in the Illuminated Interaction Volume in order to be able to collect more information, or information with higher resolution. For example, in order to detect a wingbeat frequency of about 500 Hz, it is desirable to have an interaction time of several 10s of milliseconds so that several cycles of wing beat are available for Fourier analysis.

Using analog and digital signal processing and counting means, these light level changes are processed and result in data indicating object count as well as certain other information. For example, a bigger object leads to a larger change in light level. Insects beating their wings while in the illuminated interaction volume cause changing amounts of absorbed, scattered and reflected light corresponding to the wing beat frequency. Multiple objects simultaneously present in the IIV result in a signal that is a combination of individual object signals.

Referring now to FIG. 16, in one embodiment (a), the light source comprises at least one light-emitting element 100 and a collimating lens 101 or mirror arranged to produce a collimated beam of light 110. In another embodiment (b), the light source comprises a two-dimensional array 103 of light-emitting elements 100, preferably with small emission angles 105, producing a beam of light 111. The light-emitting elements may be mounted to a printed circuit board, 104. The printed circuit board 104 may have at least one opening in order to place it in an airstream. In another embodiment (c), the light source comprises at least one light-emitting element 100 emitting a beam 112. In another embodiment, the light source is a backlight similar to light sources used in flat panel displays or car instruments.

It should be noted that only a few rays of light are shown for each beam to illustrate the general shape and nature of the beams.

In one embodiment, a light-emitting element is of the LED (light-emitting diode) type. In one embodiment, the light source is a plurality of LEDs. In one embodiment, a light-emitting element is a laser. In one embodiment, a light-emitting element is a VCSEL (vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser). In one embodiment, a light-emitting element is an incandescent light bulb.

In one embodiment, the light source emits light in the UV or visible range. In one embodiment, the light source emits light in the infrared (IR) range. IR light is present in an ambient light background at a level lower than visible or UV light and thus IR illumination facilitates background suppression. In addition, NIR illumination is usually not perceived by living objects such as insects.

In one embodiment, the light source emits a collimated beam having a cross-sectional area of similar dimension as the IIV. In one embodiment, the light source resembles a spotlight, emitting a beam with a cross-sectional area that changes little with distance. In one embodiment, the light source resembles a floodlight emitting a divergent beam, i.e. a beam with a cross-sectional area that increases with distance from the light source.

In one embodiment, the intensity of a light-emitting element is modulated with a periodic waveform or carrier frequency selected from a list comprising the following types: a rectangular wave and a sine wave. In one embodiment, the modulation frequency is greater or equal to 100 Hz. In another embodiment, the modulation frequency is 3 kHz, 5 kHz, 10 kHz, 30 kHz, 33 kHz, 36 kHz, 38 kHz, 40 kHz and 56 kHz. It is not necessary for a modulated light source to have a minimum intensity of zero or to even be periodic; rather, the property that the intensity is time-dependent following a predefined pattern is the novel and distinguishing factor. In one embodiment, a plurality of light-emitting elements is modulated at different frequencies.

The illuminated interaction volume has a three-dimensional shape. Referring to FIG. 18, preferred shapes are a cylinder 301, a box 302, a cone 303, or a pie slice 304. In one embodiment, the illuminated interaction volume contains a plurality of smaller volumes that are overlapping, adjacent or separated by small volumes of space.

The illuminated interaction volume has a cross section and a height, with the height dimension being the one closest to the direction of the light beam. The cross section is at least 1 cm2 and the height is at least 0.1 mm. It is preferred to have the illuminated interaction volume to be large along the path of an object through it to extend the observation time.

In one embodiment, the light emitted from a light-emitting element is distributed throughout the illumination interaction volume using at least one optical element from a list comprising lenses, Fresnel lenses, cylindrical lenses, mirrors, reflectors, retro-reflectors, filters (comprising high-pass, low-pass, single-wavelength, band-path and dichroic), beam blocks, beam splitters, apertures, beam dumps, shutters, absorbers, diffusers and laser line generators.

Referring now to FIG. 17, in one embodiment (a), the sensor comprises at least one light-sensitive element 200 and a focusing lens 201 or mirror arranged to focus a beam of light 110 on a light-sensitive element 200. In one embodiment (b), the light sensor comprises a two-dimensional array 203 of light-sensitive elements 200, sensing a beam of light 211. The light-sensing elements may be mounted to a printed circuit board, 204. The printed circuit board 204 may have at least one opening in order to place it in an airstream. In one embodiment, the light sensor is solar cell. In another embodiment (c), the light sensor comprises at least one light-sensing element 200 to collect a beam 212. It should be noted that only a few rays of light are shown for each beam to illustrate the general shape and nature of the beams.

Objects in the Illuminated Interaction Volume absorb, scatter and reflect light. At least one light sensor each comprising at least one light-sensitive element is placed in at least one location from the list comprising: a location suitable for sensing light that passes through and exits the volume (bright field detection); a location suitable for sensing scattered or reflected light only (dark field detection); and a location for sensing the light intensity inside the volume (integration).

The light sensor comprises a light-sensitive element chosen from a list comprising photodiodes; phototransistors; photoresistors; CCDs; position-sensitive detectors; solar cells; antennas; and thermopiles. In one embodiment, a light sensor comprises a single light-sensitive element (example: a photodiode) and a focusing lens. In one embodiment, a light sensor comprises a plurality of light-sensitive elements. In one embodiment, a light sensor comprises a line or two-dimensional array of photodiodes. In one embodiment, a light sensor comprises an imaging device.

Image sensors may be of the type commonly used in consumer electronics (e.g. cell phones cameras) and based on photodiodes, CCDs or CMOS pixels. Another image sensor is a high-speed camera. In one embodiment, a light sensor comprises a spectrometer. In one embodiment, a light sensor comprises a line scan camera.

A solar cell is essentially a photodiode with a large area. Commonly used types include monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, and amorphous silicon. These types vary in their sensitivity to light of different wavelength, as well as the voltages and currents they are capable of generating.

Solar cells and photodiodes have two modes of operation: photovoltaic (PV) and photoconductive (PC).

In the PV mode, a load is connected between the positive terminal (anode) and the negative terminal (cathode). Upon incidence of light, a no-load voltage of approximately 0.5 to 0.7 Volts builds up. A positive current can be drawn from the cell and thus power can be generated.

In the PC mode, the connections are reversed. In an ideal diode, no current would be able to flow. In a photodiode, a “reverse mode current” flows that is substantially proportional to the incident light intensity and responds quickly to changes. This mode is preferred for sensing of light intensity.

Usually, solar cells are used in PV mode for power generation, and photodiodes are used in PC mode as a light detector. However, a solar cell may also be used in PC mode as a light detector.

In one embodiment, the spectral sensitivity response of a light sensor has a maximum near the peak emission of a light-emitting element. In one embodiment, each of a plurality of light-sensitive elements has maximum sensitivity near the peak emission of at least one of a plurality of light-emitting elements. In one embodiment, a light sensor is equipped with a filter to transmit the wavelength of a light-emitting element. In one embodiment, a plurality of light sensing elements senses light from light-emitting elements with different modulation frequencies. In one embodiment, a light sensor is equipped with a filter rejecting daylight and transmitting infrared light. In one embodiment, a light-sensitive element is equipped with a filter rejecting daylight and transmitting infrared light.

It is one objective of the present invention to provide an ODS with a sensitive large-area light sensor. This sensor may be realized in different but conceptually equivalent ways: a solar panel; a two-dimensional array of light-sensitive elements; a focusing lens or mirror and at least one light-sensitive element.

The light source, ambient light background, noise and the object-dependent signal all contribute to a light sensor output. Also, a light sensor output depends on the number of objects present in the volume. While an ambient light background is constant or slowly varying, the light absorbed, reflected, scattered or otherwise modified by objects varies in time fast in comparison. According to the present invention, the object-dependent signal is extracted from the light sensor output with a combination of analog and digital signal processing.

In all embodiments, a time-dependent signal is generated which is processed as schematically shown in FIG. 4. The digital signal processing means comprises storage means to record time-dependent signals and a computing means such as a microprocessor or microcontroller. A microcontroller comprises a micro-processor and input/output functions including analog-to-digital conversion.

Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a method for data acquisition and signal processing from the list comprising: analog signal conditioning, demodulation or amplification using discrete components resulting in a electronic insect from a continuous range, followed by A/D conversion and digital signal processing; analog signal conditioning, demodulation or amplification using an integrated circuit resulting in a bi-level (high/low) electronic insect signal, followed by A/D conversion and digital signal processing; analog signal conditioning followed by A/D conversion and digital signal processing; light sensor output connected directly to an A/D converter or an input port of a microcontroller. Examples for analog signal conditioning are high-pass, low-pass and band-pass filters.

In one embodiment, the A/D conversion means is a binary input port on a microcontroller. In one embodiment, the A/D conversion means is an analog input port on a microcontroller. In one embodiment, the A/D converter is an integrated circuit connected to a digital input (such as a serial port) on a microcontroller.

Analog or digital signal processing comprise one or more techniques from the list comprising filters, amplification, comparison, thresholding, correlation, Fourier transform, deconvolution, pattern recognition, demodulation, and classification.

When an object enters the volume of space and thereafter leaves it, the Object Detection System records a sequence of transitions (no object present-<object present-<no object present), which may be used for counting objects. The light also carries information about objects such as wing beat frequency, size and other features of the object, which may be extracted from a light sensor signal using the signal processing means.

In one embodiment, the Object Detection System with Extended Observation Time may be combined with an Object Detection System as described in WO2015126855 A1, which may be used as a counter, as well as a trigger to start the observation of wing beat.

These embodiments are exemplary only. The spirit and intent of the present invention allows for other arrangements of analog and digital signal processing to be used for converting a light sensor signal to an object signal.

In one embodiment (FIG. 19), a wing beat frequency is determined as follows: The light source intensity is constant, and passes light through the Illuminated Interaction Volume. If an object (insect) beating its wings is present in the Illuminated Interaction Volume, a modulation representative of the wing beat signal is superimposed on a constant background resulting in light with a time-dependent intensity waveform. An ambient light background may be also present but is not modulated. The waveform may be detected by the light sensor in either bright field (shown) or dark field configuration resulting in a time-dependent signal. The signal may be conditioned (for example, with a high-pass filter to remove a constant light background) and then may be converted into digital form by an A/D converter. The digital signal may be processed with Signal Processing, which may include a Fourier Transform. The result is a spectrum of the wingbeat signal, with one or more peaks representative of a fundamental frequency as well as harmonics.

The light sensor may be placed below the light source as schematically shown in FIG. 19, but in accordance with the present invention, the arrangement could be reversed or otherwise changed, as long as in a bright field configuration light source and light sensor are placed on substantially opposite sides (for example, top-bottom, left-right) of the illuminated interaction volume. In a dark field configuration, the light sensor may be placed on the same side as the light source, or in any location in which light rays from the light source do not directly reach the light sensor.

In one embodiment (FIG. 2), a wing beat frequency is determined as follows: The light source intensity is modulated with a carrier frequency higher than the wing beat frequency, and passes light through the Illuminated Interaction Volume. If an object insect is present, the carrier frequency is modulated by the wing beat frequency resulting in light with a time-dependent intensity waveform. An ambient light background may be also present but is not modulated. The waveform may be detected by the detector in either bright field or dark field configuration resulting in a time-dependent signal. The signal may be conditioned (for example, with a high-pass filter, or a band-pass filter allowing only signal at the modulation frequency to pass) and then may be converted into digital form by an A/D converter. An Envelope Filter removes the carrier frequency from the modulated waveform. The wing beat signal then appears on the output of the envelope filter and may be subjected to further signal processing which may include a Fourier transform. The result is a spectrum of the intensity waveform representative of the wingbeat signal, with one or more peaks representative of a fundamental frequency as well as harmonics.

In one embodiment (see FIG. 4), the invention comprises at least one environmental sensor from the list comprising temperature and humidity (T & RH), rainfall amount, cloud cover, wind speed, wind direction and solar radiation.

The invention comprises means for local storage of data. The invention also comprises a means for bi-directional data communication to transfer insect counts and other information between the invention, a remote database, a user's cellphone (for example, by text messaging), or a computing means. Information from the database is used for monitoring, report generation and initiation of action. Bi-directional communication also allows a user to configure the invention, for example, reset the object counter to zero and initiate counting, or determine the location of an ODS deployed in the field.

In one embodiment, the data communication means comprises at least one device from a list comprising: a wired connection; a wireless connection; a TCP/IP connection; a removable memory device (e.g. flash card or USB stick); a cellular modem; a WiFi adapter; a Bluetooth adapter; an XBEE module provided by Digi, Inc.

In one embodiment, the invention comprises a real-time clock for attaching time and date stamps to all data being recorded such as insect present events, biological parameters and environmental sensor readings.

FIG. 4 also illustrates signal and data flow in one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 20, the preferred embodiment includes combination with an insect trap.

The illuminated interaction volume 701 is a plastic cylinder of a diameter of 10+/−5 cm and a height h of 10-30 cm which is fitted to existing insect trap designs such as the mosquito trap 710 type Sentinel or Mosquitaire which may include a funnel 711, manufactured by Biogents, Regensburg, Germany. These traps use a fan 705 to generate airflow 704 to draw insects 706 through the plastic cylinder along the path shown and into a catch container or net inside the trap. They also comprise a 12V power supply to which an Object Detection System according to the present invention may be connected and from which it may draw its power.

The light source 702 is a two-dimensional array of infrared LEDs attached above the illuminated interaction volume. The light sensor 703 is a two-dimensional array of photodiodes, which may have a filter to remove visible light. The arrangement of the light source 702 and the light sensor 703 may be reversed. Also, either may have perforations to allow airflow to pass through. This construction allows the airflow generated by the fan inside the trap to flow into and through the illuminated interaction volume.

The residence time T of an insect inside the Illuminated Interaction Volume can be estimated by dividing the height h by the linear velocity of the airflow v. With h=10 cm=0.1 m, v=3 m/sec, a residence time T=0.03 sec results. If a wingbeat frequency is 500 Hz, this corresponds to 15 cycles. The residence time can be increased by increasing the height h or decreasing the air velocity v. For example, with h=30 cm=0.3 m, a residence time T of 90 milliseconds corresponding to 45 wingbeat cycles is obtained.

The Signal Processing module 707 comprises a microcontroller and a cellular modem in communication with the microcontroller in a housing. The microcontroller also provides local storage for insect count and other parameters, as well as a USB connection for communication with a PC or handheld device.

The preferred embodiment comprises a real-time clock to provide a time stamp for all data acquired and stored locally, as well as cellular transmission to the remote database and bi-directional data transmission.

Referring now to FIG. 21, several alternative embodiments are provided here which serve as examples only and are by no means intended to be limiting.

In one embodiment, the Illuminated Interaction Volume 801 has the shape of a box. The light source 801 has at least one row of light-emitting elements and the light sensor 802 has at least one row of light-sensing elements. An airflow 804 may be provided through the Illuminated Interaction Volume 801.

The following exemplary embodiments use the dark field mode of detection.

Referring now to FIG. 22(a), a light-emitting element 901 and a light-sensing element 902 are mounted next to each other. A lens 902 creates a collimated beam of light 910. The light 911 scattered or reflected from an object 909 is collected by lens 903 and focused on light-sensitive element 902.

Referring now to FIG. 22(b), the function of light source and light sensor are combined in one module 903 comprising at least one light-emitting element 900 and at least one light-sensing element 901. Conveniently, the light-emitting elements 900 and the light-sensing elements may be mounted to a printed circuit board 904. The light-emitting elements 900 produce a light beam 910. The light 911 scattered or reflected from an object 909 is detected by the light-sensing elements 901 in module 903.

Referring now to FIG. 22(c), provided are a light-emitting element 900 and a light-sensing element 901 which may be mounted adjacent to light-emitting element 900, or some distance away. Light-emitting element 900 emits a beam of light 912. At least some of the light reflected or scattered by insect 909 is collected by light-sensing element 901.

Referring now to FIG. 23, several embodiments combining various aspects from FIG. 22 are shown. In one embodiment, the at least one light-emitting element 900 is mounted in the center of a plurality of light-sensing elements 901, as shown in FIG. 23(b). Compared to the embodiment shown in FIG. 22(c), this arrangement collects more of the light reflected or scattered by object 909. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 23(c), the efficiency of illumination and light collection may be further enhanced by inserting a lens 902, preferably of the Fresnel type, into the beam path. This lens has the dual function of collimating the light from the light-emitting element and at least partially focusing light scattered or reflected from object 909.

In yet a further embodiment, wing beat frequencies may be correlated with specific mosquito species, most notably those species known to be disease carriers. Upon the occurrence of a particular frequency, the Illuminated Interaction Volume may be modified to include an automatic closure mechanism triggered by the particular frequency in order to retain the mosquitoes for further analysis.

In another embodiment, a plurality of Object Detection Systems may be systematically dispersed across a particular geographic region. Each Object Detection System will be equipped with a GPS transmitter communicatively coupled to a network, and the respective locations will be transmitted to a display screen for analysis of migration patterns, species information and the like. Additionally, a plurality of pesticide emitters communicatively coupled to the same network may be systematically dispersed across the same geographic region. Upon the occurrence of certain triggers as determined by the networked Object Detection Systems, one or more of the pesticide emitters may emit pesticide, and data may be collected as to the effectiveness of such pesticide applications.

FIG. 24 schematically shows a two-dimensional array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which may emit the same or different wavelengths of light.

Shown in FIG. 24 are bottom and side views of 2D sensor with 2D array illumination 2400, including Compound Parabolic Concentrator (“CPC”) 2405, photodiode 2410, two dimensional array of LEDs 2415, and opening 2420.

Turning again to FIG. 24, it schematically shows the two-dimensional array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which may emit the same or different wavelengths of light. The center of the array has an opening for a light-collecting device which is preferably a Compound Parabolic Concentrator to collect scattered and reflected light and direct it onto a photodiode.

FIG. 25 shows one exemplary embodiment of an insect sensor.

Shown in FIG. 25 is insect sensor 2500, including insect sensor assembly 2505, and collar or screen 2510.

Turning again to FIG. 25, it shows one embodiment of an insect sensor, including a two-dimensional array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which may emit the same or different wavelengths of light. The two-dimensional array is attached to the bottom of the sensor assembly so that the light is projected downward. A collar (preferably furnished as a screen) prevents insects from flying too close to the array.

FIG. 26 shows an exemplary bottom view of an exemplary insect sensor.

Shown in FIG. 26 is insect sensor 2600, including bottom view 2605.

In various exemplary embodiments, the sensor assembly may include one or more of the following:

MCU (microprocessor control unit) for controlling the LEDs and acquiring wingbeat recordings.

AP (application processor) for calculating the wingbeat spectrum and insect classification algorithms.

Cellular module for data communication with a remote server.

WiFi module.

Bluetooth module for local control by smartphone app.

GPS.

Real-time clock (for time stamping the data).

Temperature sensor.

Humidity sensor.

Barometric air pressure sensor.

FIG. 27 shows one exemplary embodiment of a mosquito trap.

Shown in FIG. 27 is mosquito trap 2700, including upper airflow direction 2705, insect sensor 2710 (inserted in funnel 2715), annular opening 2720, body 2725, outward airflow direction 2730, optional catch bag 2735, fan 2740, and elbow 2745.

Turning again to FIG. 27, it shows one embodiment of a mosquito trap equipped with an insect sensor. The trap consists of a funnel having a top opening; a body, the inside of which is illuminated by the insect sensor; an elbow to prevent light reflection from the fan, which would obscure the wingbeat measurement; a fan, and an optional catch bag. The insect sensor is partially or completely inserted into the funnel so that an annular opening is created. Insects are transported by the airflow through the annular opening into the trap body where they are measured, and carried by the outward airflow into the catch bag.

FIG. 28 shows another exemplary embodiment of a mosquito trap.

Shown in FIG. 28 is mosquito trap 2800, including insect sensor 2805 (mounted above funnel 2820), screen 2810, internal airflow direction 2815, circular opening 2825, baffle 2830, and outward airflow direction 2835 which may lead to an optional catch bag, such as catch bag 2735 (FIG. 27).

Turning again to FIG. 28, it shows another exemplary embodiment of a mosquito trap equipped with an insect sensor. In this embodiment, the insect sensor is mounted above the funnel. Insects are transported by the airflow through the circular opening into the funnel where they are measured, and carried by the outward airflow through the fan into the optional catch bag. A baffle prevents light reflection from the fan reaching the photodiode and obscuring the wingbeat measurement.

FIG. 29 shows an exemplary wingbeat recording.

Turning to FIG. 29, it shows a typical wingbeat recording from a mosquito entering a trap.

FIG. 30 shows an exemplary spectrogram.

Turning to FIG. 30, it shows the spectrogram of the wingbeat recording which may be a Power Spectral Density (PSD) or Mel Frequency Coefficients (MFCC).

Referring now to FIG. 31, an example object detection system 100 with a trigger volume is illustrated. In addition to the interaction volume 102 and controller 104 discussed previously, the system also comprises a trigger volume 3100. In this embodiment, the behavior of objects in the interaction volume 102 is continuously recorded and is stored in memory (e.g. a ring buffer), preferably in the controller.

The trigger volume 3100 is separate from the interaction volume 102. The trigger volume 3100 acts to prevent the object (e.g. an insect 3102) from returning to the interaction volume. This can be accomplished with an airflow 3103, for example, the airflow can be used to draw the object into or through the trigger volume, or hold the object in the trigger volume. In this manner, the trigger volume maybe termed downstream from the interaction volume. Such airflow may be provided by one or more fans 3104.

The trigger volume 3100 comprises at least one light source 3106 and may comprise at least one light sensor 3108 connected to the controller. The at least one light source and at least one light sensor maybe in a unitary housing or located with each other, or maybe housed separately from each other or located remotely from each other. The controller detects the presence of an object in the trigger volume based on the disturbances in light level or intensity in the trigger volume. In one embodiment, detection occurs when an object passes through or otherwise breaks a light beam 3110 from the light source. Detection may generate a detection signal that may be utilized by the controller. In another embodiment, the trigger volume comprises a second interaction volume having both at least one light source and at least one light sensor. Here, detection occurs when the at least one light sensor detects a change in the light level or intensity within the second illuminated interaction volume, thus generating a detection signal. In another embodiment, the trigger volume comprises an acoustical detection system utilizing sound to detect an object in the trigger volume. In yet another embodiment, the trigger volume comprises an image capture device to detect an object in the trigger volume.

When detection of an objection in the trigger volume occurs, record data (e.g. representing a record of the wingbeat of an object) from the illuminated interaction volume 102 is retrieved from memory, where that record data corresponds to a time interval preceding the detection. That is, data regarding an object in illuminated interaction volume is retrieved from memory. This data represents the object that was present in the illuminated interaction volume prior to the detection (i.e. just prior to the detection signal). The record data so retrieved from memory can then be further processed (e.g. by the at least one controller 104), including attaching a timestamp or analyzing the record to determine the species or sex of an insect, all as previously discussed. FIG. 32 shows a record of a wingbeat recording that precedes a detection signal.

In one embodiment, a baffle 3112 may be used to separate the trigger volume or the interaction volume from any fan or other device utilized to generate the airflow. The baffle helps to prevent backscattering of light off of any moving components of the fan or transmission of any light modulated by the fan rotation where such back scattering or light may interfere with detection of objects in the trigger volume or interaction volume. That is, the baffle is designed to block light from the fan to avoid confusing the light sensor in the trigger volume or the interaction volume. A catch bag 3114 may also be used with the trigger volume.

As with the interaction volume, the trigger volume may include an enclosure formed from a sidewall, such that the enclosure defines a three dimensional volume. As with the interaction volume a cylindrical maybe preferred, but other three dimensional shapes are contemplated, such as a cone, a cube, a pie wedge, a box, a cuboid, or even an irregularly shaped three dimensional volume.

By using a trigger volume that is separate (and preferably downstream) from the illuminate interaction volume, high quality wingbeat recordings of insects in free flight can be obtained while in the interaction volume, while also achieving high accuracy counts of insects as they move into and through the trigger volume.

FIG. 33A shows an embodiment for sorting detected objects, comprising a sorting volume. The objects from the sorting volume may be sent to, and held in, one or more holding locations.

The sorting volume 3300 is separate from the interaction volume 102 and/or the trigger volume 3100. The sorting volume 3300 acts to prevent the object (e.g. an insect 3302) from returning to the interaction volume and/or the trigger volume. This can be accomplished with an airflow 3303, for example, the airflow can be used to draw the object into or through the sorting volume, or hold the object in the sorting volume. In this manner, the sorting volume maybe termed downstream from the interaction volume and/or trigger volume. Such airflow may be provided by one or more fans 3304.

The sorting volume is where the object may remain while a decision is made about disposition of the object. If the decision is made quickly, then the object may pass through the sorting volume without any, or any significant, pause to the one or more holding locations. For decisions that take longer, then the object may be held within the sorting volume until the decision made, and then the object is directed to the one or more holding locations. The disposition decision maybe made by the controller, and may be based on one more characteristics of the object, as previously determined by the controller during further processing of the data record. Such characteristics may be species of an insect, sex, age, or the like and include any characteristic that maybe determined from the wingbeat of an insect.

The sorting volume may comprise a temporary obstacle 3306 to the object (e.g. insect) while the disposition decision is made. In one embodiment, the temporary obstacle moves from a starting position, blocking access to all the holding locations, to a secondary position, permitting access to one or more of the holding locations. The movement of the temporary obstacle is directed based on disposition decision previously made. As seen in FIGS. 33B and 33C, the temporary obstacle may move or flip between one or more positions to permit access to different holding locations to sort objects. The temporary obstacle is preferably perforated or otherwise allows air flow through the obstacle so that the airflow can continue to prevent the object from leaving the sorting volume, even when the temporary obstacle blocks access to all of the holding locations. In another embodiment, instead of a temporary obstacle, a directed airflow could be used to direct the objects to the desired holding location.

The holding locations may including fans and/or catch bags 3308. The fans help maintain the airflow through the interaction volume, trigger volume, and/or sorting volume, while the catch bags permit additional inspection of the captured objects.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present technology has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the present technology in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present technology. Exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present technology and its practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present technology for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Aspects of the present technology are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the present technology. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present technology. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

In the following description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth, such as particular embodiments, procedures, techniques, etc. in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced in other embodiments that depart from these specific details.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” or “according to one embodiment” (or other phrases having similar import) at various places throughout this 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. Furthermore, depending on the context of discussion herein, a singular term may include its plural forms and a plural term may include its singular form. Similarly, a hyphenated term (e.g., “on-demand”) may be occasionally interchangeably used with its non-hyphenated version (e.g., “on demand”), a capitalized entry (e.g., “Software”) may be interchangeably used with its non-capitalized version (e.g., “software”), a plural term may be indicated with or without an apostrophe (e.g., PE's or PEs), and an italicized term (e.g., “N+1”) may be interchangeably used with its non-italicized version (e.g., “N+1”). Such occasional interchangeable uses shall not be considered inconsistent with each other.

Also, some embodiments may be described in terms of “means for” performing a task or set of tasks. It will be understood that a “means for” may be expressed herein in terms of a structure, such as a processor, a memory, an I/O device such as a camera, or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the “means for” may include an algorithm that is descriptive of a function or method step, while in yet other embodiments the “means for” is expressed in terms of a mathematical formula, prose, or as a flow chart or signal diagram.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “having,” “including,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The use of “comprising” or “including,” and similar terms also contemplates embodiments that “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the recited feature(s).

It is noted at the outset that the terms “coupled,” “connected”, “connecting,” “electrically connected,” etc., are used interchangeably herein to generally refer to the condition of being electrically/electronically connected. Similarly, a first entity is considered to be in “communication” with a second entity (or entities) when the first entity electrically sends and/or receives (whether through wireline or wireless means) information signals (whether containing data information or non-data/control information) to the second entity regardless of the type (analog or digital) of those signals. It is further noted that various figures (including component diagrams) shown and discussed herein are for illustrative purpose only, and are not drawn to scale.

If any disclosures are incorporated herein by reference and such incorporated disclosures conflict in part and/or in whole with the present disclosure, then to the extent of conflict, and/or broader disclosure, and/or broader definition of terms, the present disclosure controls. If such incorporated disclosures conflict in part and/or in whole with one another, then to the extent of conflict, the later-dated disclosure controls.

The terminology used herein can imply direct or indirect, full or partial, temporary or permanent, immediate or delayed, synchronous or asynchronous, action or inaction. For example, when an element is referred to as being “on,” “connected” or “coupled” to another element, then the element can be directly on, connected or coupled to the other element and/or intervening elements may be present, including indirect and/or direct variants. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly connected” or “directly coupled” to another element, there are no intervening elements present.

Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not necessarily be limited by such terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be necessarily limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “includes” and/or “comprising,” “including” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the present disclosure. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, the example embodiments of the present disclosure should not be construed as necessarily limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein, but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be formed from a same, structurally continuous piece, such as being unitary, and/or be separately manufactured and/or connected, such as being an assembly and/or modules. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be manufactured via any manufacturing processes, whether additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing and/or other any other types of manufacturing. For example, some manufacturing processes include three dimensional (3D) printing, laser cutting, computer numerical control (CNC) routing, milling, pressing, stamping, vacuum forming, hydroforming, injection molding, lithography and/or others.

Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can include, whether partially and/or fully, a solid, including a metal, a mineral, a ceramic, an amorphous solid, such as glass, a glass ceramic, an organic solid, such as wood and/or a polymer, such as rubber, a composite material, a semiconductor, a nano-material, a biomaterial and/or any combinations thereof. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can include, whether partially and/or fully, a coating, including an informational coating, such as ink, an adhesive coating, a melt-adhesive coating, such as vacuum seal and/or heat seal, a release coating, such as tape liner, a low surface energy coating, an optical coating, such as for tint, color, hue, saturation, tone, shade, transparency, translucency, non-transparency, luminescence, anti-reflection and/or holographic, a photo-sensitive coating, an electronic and/or thermal property coating, such as for passivity, insulation, resistance or conduction, a magnetic coating, a water-resistant and/or waterproof coating, a scent coating and/or any combinations thereof.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and should not be interpreted in an idealized and/or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

Furthermore, relative terms such as “below,” “lower,” “above,” and “upper” may be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of illustrated technologies in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if a device in the accompanying drawings is turned over, then the elements described as being on the “lower” side of other elements would then be oriented on “upper” sides of the other elements. Similarly, if the device in one of the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements would then be oriented “above” the other elements. Therefore, the example terms “below” and “lower” can, therefore, encompass both an orientation of above and below.

While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. The descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the particular forms set forth herein. To the contrary, the present descriptions are intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and otherwise appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, the breadth and scope of a preferred embodiment should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments.

Claims

1. An object detection system, comprising: an interaction volume;a trigger volume separate from the interaction volume; andat least one controller that is configured: (a) to continuously store in memory one or more records of object behavior within the interaction volume, (b) to detect an object within the trigger volume, and (c) to retrieve from memory one or more records of object behavior when an object has been detected in the trigger volume, wherein the retrieved one or more records are for a time interval preceding detection of the object within the trigger volume.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising an airflow from the interaction volume to the trigger volume sufficiently strong to prevent the object from returning to the interaction volume once the object is in the trigger volume.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein in the at least one controller is configured to detect an object within the trigger volume based on the disturbances in the light level or light intensity.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein in the at least one controller is configured to continuously store in memory one or more records of object behavior within the interaction volume based on the disturbances in the light level or light intensity.

5. The system of claim 3, wherein the at least one controller is configured to record scattered or reflected light from objects within the interaction volume, and wherein the at least one controller is configured to record a waveform of light that is resultant from a modulation of light intensity by a wing beat.

6. The system of claim 1, where in the trigger volume comprises at least one light source.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the trigger volume comprises at least one light sensor.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the trigger volume is a second interaction volume.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one controller is configured to further process the one or more records of object behavior.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one controller is configured to further process the one or more records of object behavior by attaching a time stamp to the record.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the at least one controller is configured to further process the one or more records of object behavior by analyzing the record to determine a species or sex of an object that is an insect.

12. The system of claim 2, further comprising at least one fan to generate the airflow.

13. The system of claim 12, further comprising a baffle for each fan, wherein the baffle is located between the fan and interaction volume or trigger volume.

14. The system of claim 1, further comprising a sorting volume, separate from the interaction and the trigger volume, comprising at least two holding locations.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the at least one controller is further configured to sort objects into one or more holding locations based one or more characteristics of the object as previously determined by the at least one controller.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the at least one controller is further configured to make a disposition decision for an object within the sorting volume and then permit access to at least one of the at least two or more holding locations based on the disposition decision.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the sorting volume comprises at least one temporary obstacle that blocks access to all of the at least two holding locations until after the disposition decision has been made.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the at least one temporary obstacle moves from a starting position to a secondary position to permit access to at least one of the two or more holding locations.

19. The system of claim 18, where in the sorting volume comprises one or more fans or at least one catch bag for each of the two or more holding locations.

20. The system of claim 17, where in the at least one temporary obstacle comprises a perforated disk.

21. An object detection system, comprising: an interaction volume;a sorting volume separate from the interaction volume and the trigger volume, and comprising two or more holding locations;at least one controller that is configured: (a) to continuously store in memory one or more records of object behavior within the interaction volume, and (b) to sort objects into one or more of the two or more holding locations based one or more characteristics of the object as previously determined by the at least one controller by making a disposition decision for an object within the sorting volume and then permitting access to at least one of the at least two or more holding locations based on the disposition decision; andan airflow from the interaction volume to the sorting volume sufficiently strong to prevent the object from returning to the interaction volume once the object is in the sorting volume.

22. The system of claim 20, further comprising a trigger volume located between the interaction volume and the sorting volume.