Climate-controlled pest control station
A climate-controlled control station includes a protective enclosure containing a pest control material and/or control device. A reflector or heat shield protects the enclosure from impinging infrared radiant energy, thereby moderating the internal air temperature in the enclosure. At least part of the enclosure may be insulated against heat transfer. A vent in the enclosure facilitates exhausting hot and/or humid air from the enclosure. A fan or blower may be provided for forcing hot and/or humid air from the enclosure.
1. A climate-controlled rodent control station comprising:
(a) an enclosure constructed of a molded polymeric material defining an interior space capable of receiving a rodent control composition or rodent control device therein, the enclosure including at least one exterior surface; and
(b) an infrared reflector substantially shielding the at least one exterior surface;
(c) wherein the reflector is capable of reflecting more than about 30 percent of impinging infrared solar radiation.
2. A control device according to claim 1 wherein the thermal shield has an outer shape that simulates the appearance of another object.
3. A control device according to claim 2 wherein the thermal shield has an outer shape that simulates the appearance of a rock.
4. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 1 wherein the reflector is on the exterior surface of the enclosure.
5. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 1 wherein the reflector and exterior surface of the enclosure define a space therebetween.
6. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 1 wherein the exterior surface is a substantially upward-facing surface.
7. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 1 wherein the reflector comprises a metallic material.
8. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 7 wherein the reflector comprises a metallized polymeric film.
9. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 1 wherein the reflector comprises a polymeric material.
10. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 1 and further comprising at least one vent opening in the enclosure.
11. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 10 and further comprising a blower for blowing air through the vent opening.
12. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 8 and further comprising a thermostat for regulating operation of the blower.
13. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 9 wherein the thermostat is configured to communicate with a remote computer.
14. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 1 wherein the enclosure comprises a top having a thermal insulating layer.
15. A climate-controlled control station according to claim 14 wherein the thermal insulating layer comprises an insulating foam.