DEVICE FOR HOLDING A BAIT

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus 1 for holding a bait 2 for pests, in particular rodents and/or insects, comprising a housing part 3 that can be inserted into a manhole, in particular a sewer manhole or a cable duct shaft, said part comprising at least one receiving space 5 which is delimited by at least one wall, in particular at least one housing part wall, wherein at least one passage opening 9 is designed in the at least one wall, an animal being able to pass through said opening to at least one bait 2 disposed in the receiving space 5.

Claims

1. An apparatus (1) for holding a bait (2) for animals, such as pests, in particular rodents and/or insects, characterized by a housing part (3), that can be inserted into a manhole, in particular a sewer manhole or a cable duct manhole, which comprises at least one receiving space (5) delimited by at least one wall, in particular at least one housing part wall, wherein at least one passage opening (9) is designed in the at least one wall, an animal being able to pass through said passage to at least one bait (2) disposed in the receiving space (5).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is designed in a housing part wall that forms a side wall or a part of a side wall of the housing part (3), and/or the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is designed in a housing part wall that forms a cover wall or a part of a cover wall of the housing part (3).

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is designed in a wall of a receiving chamber (31) that is or can be connected to the housing part (3), in particular in a receiving chamber wall that forms a side wall of the receiving chamber (31) and/or a receiving chamber wall that forms a bottom wall of the receiving chamber (31) or a receiving chamber wall that forms a cover wall of the receiving chamber (31).

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by at least one bait platform (8) disposed or designed in the housing part (3), the bait platform delimiting at least one passage opening (9) through which an animal can pass to at least one bait (2) disposed in the receiving space (5), in particular to a bait (2) disposed on the bait platform (8) and/or to a bait (2) held on at least one bait holding device (12) disposed in the receiving space (5).

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that a plurality of bait platforms (8) are disposed in the housing part (3), wherein an intermediate space (97) that defines an intermediate plane is formed between two adjacently-disposed bait platforms (8).

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by at least one closing body (15) mounted movably relative to the housing part (3), wherein the closing body (15) can be moved to an open position in which the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is exposed, and to a closed position in which the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is closed.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one or at least one closing body (15) is pivotably mounted relative to the housing part (3), wherein the closing body (15) can be pivoted to an open position in which the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is exposed, and to a closed position in which the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is closed, and/or the at least one or at least one closing body (15) is mounted displaceably, in particular linearly guided, relative to the housing part (3), wherein the closing body (15) can be displaced to an open position in which the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is exposed and to a closed position in which the at least one or at least one wall-side-delimited passage opening (9) is closed.

8. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one or at least one closing body (15) is designed as a float or at least comprises a float.

9. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that a plurality of closing bodies (15) are present, wherein at least two closing bodies (15) are motion-coupled by way of at least one coupling element (110) such that said bodies can move jointly to a closed and/or open position, respectively, or in the direction of the same, respectively.

10. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the closing body (15) is provided at least in sections with at least one surface structuring (85) and/or surface coating and/or surface layer that offers a hold and/or adhesion for an animal.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one housing-part-wall-side passage opening (9) is surrounded at least in sections by a flood- or spray-protection element (109) for protecting against penetration of water through flooding or spray water into the housing-part-side-delimited receiving space (5).

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that in or on the or at least a receiving chamber (31) disposed or designed in the receiving space (5) delimited by the housing part (3) at least one, in particular optical, monitoring device (83) for monitoring at least a part of the receiving space (5) delimited by the housing part (3) is disposed or designed.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by at least one flood-protection element (61) for protecting against penetration of water into the receiving space (5) delimited by the housing part (3), in particular by a passage opening (9) delimited on the bait platform side, said opening lying in an upper region (5a) of the receiving space (5) above the bait-platform-side-delimited passage opening (9) in the event of a flood-like increase in the water level in a manhole.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by a fastening device (73) for fastening, in particular releasably, the housing part (3) on a wall of a sewer system (4), in particular a manhole, wherein the fastening device (73) comprises at least one first fastening element (74), in particular in a ring shape, extending around the housing part (3) on the outside circumference, and at least one second fastening element (75) for fastening the first fastening element (74) on the wall of the sewer system (4).

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the second fastening element (75) comprises at least one fastening-element section (75a) extending around the housing part (3) on the top side in at least some sections, forming a buoyancy ensuring device and being releasable on the exposed top side of the housing part (3), in particular in a form-fitting manner.

16. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by at least one guide device (99) for movable guidance, in particular linearly, of the housing part (3) inserted into a manhole (98) relative to a wall of the manhole (98).

17. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one, if necessary additional, floats (108) is designed or disposed in or on the housing part (3).

18. A manhole, in particular a sewer manhole or cable duct manhole, comprising at least one apparatus (1) according to claim 1.

Description

[0110] Additional advantages, features and details of the invention are derived from the exemplary embodiment described below as well as on the basis of the drawings. Shown are the following:

[0111] FIGS. 1-8 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus for holding bait according to one other exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0112] FIGS. 9-12 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus for holding bait according to one other exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0113] FIGS. 13-17 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus for holding bait according to one other exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0114] FIGS. 18-21 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus for holding bait according to one other exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0115] FIGS. 22-34 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus for holding bait according to one other exemplary embodiment of the invention; and

[0116] FIGS. 35-37 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus for holding bait according to one other exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0117] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an apparatus 1 for holding bait 2 for animals, i.e. in particular pests, according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The bait 2 contains substances, i.e., in particular toxins and active ingredients which cause the death of animals and/or prevent reproduction of animals, and or attractants for attracting corresponding pests.

[0118] The term animal includes animals that infest water-carrying equipment at least some of the time, i.e. sewers or manholes, for example. Such animals include pests such as rodents, for example mice, rats. etc., and/or insects such as beetles, cockroaches, etc., and/or smaller mammals such as bears, for example raccoons. In addition, the term pest shall be used further here, but not in a limiting manner.

[0119] The apparatus 1 comprises a housing part 3. The housing part 3 is inserted into a sewer system 4, i.e., a sewer drain and/or a sewer manhole, for example. The housing part 3 is fastened by means of a fastening device on the housing-part side, which is not shown in greater detail in FIGS. 1-12, by means of which the housing part 3 is fastened, in particular releasably, on a wall of the sewer system 4. The fastening device 35 may comprise fastening means designed in the form of hooks or profiles, so that the housing part 3 can be fastened in the wall of the sewer system 4 or corresponding climbing devices (not shown) such as iron ladders on the sewer-system side.

[0120] The housing part 3 is made of a hollow-cylindrical body, i.e., the housing part 3 delimits an (essentially) cylindrical receiving space 5 by means of housing part walls 3a-d. Each of the housing part walls 3a, 3b is a housing part wall forming a side wall of housing part 3, whereas housing part wall 3c is a housing part wall that forms a cover wall of housing part 3, and housing part wall 3d is a housing part wall forming a bottom wall of housing part 3.

[0121] It can be seen that a passage opening 9 is formed in each of housing part walls 3a, 3b. Pests can pass through corresponding passage openings 9 to a bait 2 disposed in receiving space 5. Corresponding passage openings 9 thus represent an access for pests to receiving space 5. Of course, pests can also (in turn) exit receiving space 5 on the housing part side through corresponding passage openings 9. Corresponding passage openings 9 thus represent an exit for pests from receiving space 5.

[0122] Passage openings 9 can be distributed positionally, i.e. positioned peripherally and/or vertically, evenly or unevenly, for example, based on a given geometric design of housing part 3. Passage openings 9 do not necessarily have to be identical with regard to geometry, i.e. the dimensions and shape thereof do not have to be identical. Consequently, pest-specific passage openings 9 can be provided, i.e. specific passage openings 9 for specific pests. Passage openings 9 can of course also encompass a plurality of passage openings with differently-designed passage opening section geometries which communicate with one another, the sections being designed pest-specific as necessary.

[0123] Each of the passage openings 9 may be closed by way of a closing body 15 assigned thereto. The closing bodies 15 are mounted directly to the housing part 3 and move relative there. The direct mounting of the closing bodies 15 to the housing part 3 includes an nondetachable configuration and/or connection of the closing body 15 on and/or to the housing part 3. The movable mounting of the closing bodies 15 means a pivotable mounting of the closing bodies 15 about a pivot point 11 on the housing-part side. Each of the closing bodies 15 is movable to an open position in which the respective wall-side-delimited passage openings 9 are exposed. In the open position, the closing bodies 15 are moved away from the passage openings 9 in such a way that the passage openings are exposed so pests can pass through the passage openings 9 into the housing part 3 or out of the housing part 3. In a closed position shown in FIG. 1 in a dashed line, the closing bodies 15 are movable to a closed position in which the wall-side-delimited passage openings 9 are not exposed, i.e. are closed. In the closed position, the closing bodies 15 are toward the respective passage openings 9 in such a way that the passage openings are not exposed so that pests cannot pass through the passage openings 9 into the housing part 3 or out of the housing part 3. In the closed position, the closing bodies 15 hermetically seal the passage openings 9.

[0124] Consequently, in the closed position of the closing bodies 15, the receiving space 5 is hermetically sealed off from the environment around the housing part 3 so that penetration of water into the receiving space, for example due to high water or flood waters, into the receiving space 5 is not possible. This eliminates the possibility of any contamination of water by substances, i.e. toxins and/or attractants and/or active ingredients contained in the corresponding bait 2 disposed in the housing part 3. The movement of the closing bodies 15 from the closed position into the open position can be induced in a variety of ways. More detail will be provided on this later, in particular in connection with the description of the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 9-12.

[0125] In comparison to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 shows a flood- or spray-protection element 109 for protecting against penetration of water through flooding or spray water into the receiving space 5 which is delimited on the housing-part side. The floodwater or spray protection element 109 is designed like a roof and surrounds the passage openings 9 in sections. The flood or spray protection element 109 is disposed on housing part 3 as a separate component. The flood or spray protection element 109 could also be designed in one piece together with housing part 3.

[0126] In comparison to the exemplary embodiments shown in FIG. 1, the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3 shows another passage opening 9 in housing part wall 3d, which forms a bottom wall of housing part 3. Housing part wall 3d can also be called or considered as a bait platform. The passage opening 9 delimited on the bait platform side may be closed in similar fashion as in the remaining passage openings 9 by way of a closing body 15.

[0127] In comparison to the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-3, the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4 shows another passage opening 9 in housing part wall 3c, which forms a cover wall of housing part 3. Cover-wall-side passage opening 9 may be closed in similar fashion as in the remaining passage openings by way of a closing body 15. It can be seen that the closing body 15 assigned to the passage opening 9 on the bait platform side and the closing body 15 assigned to the passage opening 9 on the cover wall side can be connected to one another in a motion-coupled manner by way of a coupling element 110 in the shape of a coupling rod. The motion coupling of the closing bodies 15 is such that, as indicated by the double arrow, the closing bodies 15 are movable jointly to a closed position and/or an open position, respectively, or in the direction of the same, respectively. It can be seen that the closing body 15 assigned to the passage opening 9 on the cover wall side is, in contrast to the closing body 15 assigned to the passage opening on the bait platform side, not pivotably mounted, but rather displaceably mounted, movable through linear guiding.

[0128] In comparison to the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-4, the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 5 does not illustrate a pivotably mounted closing body 15, but rather a displaceably mounted closing body 15 relative to housing part 3. Closing body 15 is likewise moveable to an open position in which respective passage openings 9 delimited on the wall side are exposed. In the open position, the closing body 15 and corresponding closing body sections 15a are moved away from the passage openings 9 in such a way that the passage openings 9 are exposed so that pests can pass through the passage openings 9 into the housing part 3 or out of the housing part 3. In the closed position shown in FIG. 5, the closing body 15 and corresponding closing body sections 15a is moved over passage openings 9 in such a way that passage openings 9, which are delimited on the wall side, is not exposed, i.e. is closed, so that pests cannot pass through passage openings 9 and into housing part 3 or out of housing part 3. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of passage openings 9 are displaceable by way of a common closing body 15.

[0129] The free ends of the closing body sections 15a are provided with stops 113 which sit against stops 112 on the housing part side in the closed position. The stops 113 on the closing body section side and/or the stops 112 on the housing part side can be provided with sealing elements. The closing body sections 15a seal or close off passage openings 9 hermetically.

[0130] In comparison with this, FIG. 6 shows an exemplary embodiment according to which corresponding passage openings 9 are displaceable by way of separate respective closing body 15. The closing bodies 15 are thus basically movable independently. The number of closing bodies 15 corresponds typically (at least) to the number of passage openings 9.

[0131] The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 7 shows a variation of a displaceable mounting relative to housing part 3 for corresponding closing bodies 15. The closing bodies 15 are mounted non-detachably to guide sections 114 designed at housing part 3 and are thus mounted indirectly at housing part 3. The guide sections 114 are designed in the form of ramps in the exemplary embodiment. The closing bodies 15 are movably mounted relative to housing part 3 along the guide sections 114.

[0132] The closing bodies 15 are likewise movable to an open position in which respective wall-side-delimited passage openings 9 are exposed. In the open position, the closing bodies 15 and corresponding closing body sections 15a are moved away from the passage openings 9 in such a way that the passage openings 9 are exposed so that pests can pass through the passage openings 9 into the housing part 3 or out of the housing part 3. In the closed position shown in FIG. 7 in dashed mode, the closing bodies 15 and corresponding closing body sections 15a are moved over passage openings 9 in such a way that passage openings 9, which are delimited on the wall side, are not exposed, i.e. closed, so that pests cannot pass through passage openings 9 and into housing part 3 or out of housing part 3.

[0133] The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8 shows a variant in which in addition to passage openings on the housing part wall side, passage openings 9 are also designed in a wallhere a wall forming a bottom wall, for exampleof a connecting component that is connected or connectable to housing part 3. A connecting component can be a receiving chamber 31 which can be or is connected to housing part 3, for example, in said chamber (as described in more detail below) various electrical and/or electronic functional components of the apparatus 1 are disposed, as is a bait 2. With the aid of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8, it is made clear again that a wall which delimits the receiving space 5 is in general a wall that defines the outer and/or inner contour of the receiving space 5. Walls under this definition include corresponding connection components.

[0134] Similar to the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-8, the receiving-chamber-side passage opening 9 can be closed by way of a closing body 15. The closing body 15, which here is movably mounted at receiving chamber 31 relative to housing part 3, is shown, analogous to the closing body 15 shown in FIG. 3 assigned to passage opening 9 on the bait platform side, in an open position in which passage opening 9 (on the receiving chamber side) is exposed, and in a closed position in which passage opening 9 (on the receiving chamber side) is not exposed, movably.

[0135] In connection with the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-8, it must finally be noted that the closing bodies 15 can each be floats and/or the closing bodies can each comprise floats. The movement of the closing bodies 15 from the open position to the closed position takes place in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 8 due to a rise in the water level in the manhole 4. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the receiving space 4 will also typically fill with water in the process.

[0136] Concerning the other exemplary embodiments described below, it should be noted that although no passage openings 9 are shown or described there explicitly, they are of course present there as well.

[0137] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 9, a cover element 6 is provided in the region of housing part wall 3c forming a cover wall, and thus in the region of an upper end face of housing part 3. The housing part 3 is thus closable on the end face by means of a cover element 6. The possibility of access to the receiving space 5 can be created by removing the cover element 6. The cover element 6 has a threaded section (not shown); the housing part 3 has an opposing threaded section (also not shown), so that the cover element 6 can be screwed to the housing part 3. A sealing element 7, which permits sealing of the housing part 3 in the region of the upper end face, is also disposed between the cover element 6 and the housing part 3.

[0138] A bait platform 8, typically ring-shaped, is formed in the receiving space 5. The bait platform 8 delimits a passage opening 9, typically circular. The passage opening 9 thus defines an upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 situated above the latter and a lower region 5b of the receiving space 5 situated below it. The bait platform 8 is structurally tied to the housing part 3 by means of inside walls 11, which are offset radially toward the inside with respect to the outside wall 10 of the housing part 3.

[0139] The bait 2 is disposed in the upper region of the receiving space 5. The bait-holding device 12 for holding the bait 2 is provided for this purpose, the bait 2 being held on its free end. In principle, however, the/an additional bait 2 could also be disposed directly on the bait platform 9.

[0140] Guide sections 13 on the housing-part side in the form of elongated guide receptacles are formed between the outside wall 10 of the housing part 3 and the inside walls 11, which are offset radially toward the inside. The guide sections 12 on the housing-part side interact with guide elements 14 corresponding to them in the form of elongated guide webs of a closing body 15. A linear guide and thus a movable mounting of the closing body 15 are implemented due to the interaction of the guide sections 13 on the housing-part side with the guide elements 14 on the closing-body side, making it possible to move the closing body 15 relative to the bait platform 8. The mounting of the closing body 15 includes a nondetachable configuration and/or connection of the closing body 15 on and/or to the housing part 3.

[0141] Within the context of the movable mounting of the closing body 15, an open position and a closed position are provided. The closing body 15 is thus mounted and/or guided movably in particular between an open position and a closed position. The closing body 15 can thus be moved between an open position and a closed position as well as optionally vice versa relative to the bait platform 9.

[0142] In the open position shown in FIG. 9, the closing body 15 is moved away from the bait platform 8 in such a way that the passage opening 9, which is delimited on the bait-platform side, is exposed. Consequently, a pest can pass through the passage opening 9 in the open position in order to go from the lower region 5b of the receiving space 5 into the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 or vice versa. In the closed position shown in FIG. 10, the closing body 15 is moved toward the bait platform 8 in such a way that the passage opening 9, which is delimited on the bait-platform side, is closed. Accordingly, a pest cannot pass through the passage opening 8 in the closed position in order to go from the lower region 5b of the receiving space 5 into the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 or vice versa, for example.

[0143] In order to reach bait 2 disposed in the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5, a pest must first enter the housing part 3. Passages 21 are formed in the guide elements 14 on the closing-body side for this purpose. The passages 21 allow access to the lower region 5b of the receiving space 5. To reach the bait 2, the pest must additionally go through the passage opening 9, which is delimited on the bait-platform side onto the bait platform 8 and thus into the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5. After biting on the bait 2, the pest can go from the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 into the lower region 5b of the receiving space 5 and leave the apparatus 1 through corresponding passages 21 by passing through the passage opening 9.

[0144] The closure of the passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side implemented in the closed position of the closing body 15 prevents in particular unwanted penetration of water which is possible in particular with high water or a water surge, for example, into the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5, in which the bait 2 is disposed. Consequently, in the closed position of the closing body 15, this eliminates the risk of contamination of water in the manhole with the substances contained in the bait 2.

[0145] As can be seen, the closing body 15 has a cup-shaped closing section 16, which is in sealing contact with contact sections 17 formed on the edges on the bait-platform side, which delimit the passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side. Due to the sealing contact of corresponding counter-contact sections 18 formed on the cup-shaped closing section 16 with the corresponding contact sections 17 on the bait-platform side, penetration of water into the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 on the housing-part side is prevented. For the purpose of sealing, sealing elements 19 in the form of sealing lips are also formed on the contact sections 17 on the bait-platform side. With the same purpose, sealing elements 20 in the form of sealing rings are also designed on the counter-contact sections 18 on the closing-body side. As can be seen, additional sealing elements in the form of sealing lips not identified further are also provided in the region of the opening of the guide section 13 on the housing-part side and on lateral regions of the closing body 15.

[0146] The movement of the closing body 15 from the open position into the closed position takes place in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 due to a rise in the water level in the manhole 4. This is associated with the fact that the closing body 15 is designed as a float. The closing body 15 thus has, for example, a cavity (not shown) approximately filled with air. Alternatively or additionally, the closing body 15 may be manufactured from a low-density plastic material, in particular foamed, which floats on a water surface and does not sink because of the difference in density. A movement of the closing body 15 from the open position into the closed position is thus induced automatically by a rise in the water level of the manhole. Accordingly, a movement of the closing body 15 from the closed position into the open position is induced by a drop in the water level in the manhole.

[0147] The closing body 15 may be mounted to be reversibly or irreversibly movable. The movement of the closing body 15 from the open position into the closed position, as described, may thus be reversible or irreversible. A reversibly movable mounting of the closing body 15 means that the closing body 15 can go from the open position to the closed position on its own. An irreversibly movable mounting means that the closing body 15 is or can be held in the closed position in particular releasably, via a closing-body-holding device (not shown) and thus cannot go from the closed position to the open position on its own. A corresponding closing-body-holding device typically comprises at least one mechanical and/or magnetic holding means on the housing-part side and/or on the closing-body side, said means being equipped for mechanical and/or magnetic holding of the closing body 15 in the closed position. The mechanical or magnetic holding means on the housing-part side and/or on the closing-body side may thus interact in such a way that the closing body 15 is securely held in the closed position and is not readily releasable from it.

[0148] FIG. 11 shows an apparatus 1 according to an additional exemplary embodiment of the invention. In contrast with the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the apparatus 1 here comprises a motorized drive device 22 in the form of an electric motor, which is coupled to the closing body 15 and is equipped to move the closing body 15 from the open position into the closed position and/or vice versa. A movement of the closing body 15 from the open position into the closed position can thus be induced here in a targeted manner by a motorized drive device coupled to the closing body 15. The coupling between the motorized drive device 22 and the closing body 15 is implemented via traction means 23 in the form of a chain. The closing body 15 may of course also be designed as a float in this exemplary embodiment.

[0149] Operation of the motorized drive device 22 is controlled via a control unit 24 assigned to the latter and equipped to generate control information that controls the operation of the motorized drive device 22.

[0150] The control unit 24 is additionally equipped to generate the control information as a function of water level information describing the/a water level in the manhole supplied by a water-level detecting device 25 for detecting the water level in the manhole accommodating the apparatus 1. Consequently, operation of the motorized drive device 22 can be controlled as a function of the water level detected via a corresponding water-level detecting device 25 and mapped in corresponding water level information in the manhole, which accommodates the apparatus 1.

[0151] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the water-level detecting device 25 is disposed externally, i.e., in a spatially separate location from the apparatus 1. Consequently, the control unit 24 is also equipped to communicate with the (external) water-level detecting device 25, for example, in radio-based communication. For this purpose, the control unit 24 comprises a suitable reception device and the water-level detecting device 25 comprises a suitable transmission device. However, the/a corresponding water-level detecting device 25 may in principle also be integrated into the apparatus 1.

[0152] FIG. 12 shows an apparatus 1 according to an additional exemplary embodiment of the invention. In contrast with the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 11, a motorized drive device 22 is not provided, but instead of an (electro)magnetic drive device 32 is provided. The (electro)magnetic drive device 32 comprises an electromagnetic magnet element 33 disposed in the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 and a permanently-magnetic magnet element 34 disposed on the closing-body side. The permanently-magnetic magnet element 33 on the housing-part side exerts such a high magnetic attractive force on the permanently-magnetic magnet element 34 on the closing-body side that the closing body 15 is moved from the open position into the closed position. The operation of the permanently-magnetic magnet element 33, i.e., in particular its energization, is likewise controlled via the control unit 24. The statements made in this regard in conjunction with the control of the operation of the motorized drive device 22 also apply similarly.

[0153] As an alternative to the configuration of corresponding electromagnetic magnet elements and/or permanently-magnetic magnet elements shown in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 12, it is also possible to provide permanently-magnetic magnet elements 34 on the housing-part side and electromagnetic magnet element 33 on the closing-body side. It is also conceivable to provide electromagnetic or permanently-magnetic magnet elements 33, 34 on both the housing-part side and the closing-body side. The apparatus 1 shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 9-12 also comprises a closed-position-detecting device 26 for detecting the closed position of the closing body 15. The closed-position-detecting device 26 is equipped to generate at least one item of acoustic and/or optical closed-position information on detection of the closed position of the closing body 15 and to output this information via output means 27, which are, for example, a loudspeaker and/or an LED, in particular in multiple colors. The closed-position-detecting device 26 comprises an optical sensor system 28 implemented via implementation of light barriers for detection of the closed position of the closing body 15.

[0154] The apparatus 1 shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 9-12 additionally comprises a bite-detecting device 29 for detecting a bite on the bait. The bite-detecting device 29 is equipped to generate at least one item of acoustic and/or optical bite information on detection that the bait 2 has been bitten and to output this information via the output means 27. Consequently, the bite-detecting device 29 includes a sensor system 30 for detecting a bite on the bait. The sensor system 30 may detect, for example, the weight of the bait 2 disposed on the bait-holding device 12, wherein bite-induced changes in the weight of bait 2 allow conclusions about a bite on the bait. Likewise, the sensor system 30 may detect bite-related forces acting on the bait 2 and the bait-holding device 12, also allowing conclusions about a bite on the bait.

[0155] The bite-detecting device 29 can generate different acoustic and/or optical signals as a function of the bite information, for example, based on detection of the weight of the bait. With regard to the output of corresponding information in the form of optical signals, it is conceivable that the weight of a new bait 2 that has not been bitten can be a signal, for example, with optical signals of a green color and/or with constantly output optical signals; the weight of a partially bitten bait 2 can be signaled, for example, without optical signals of a yellow color and/or with optical signal output at a first blinking frequency; if the bait 2 has been completely eaten, this can be signaled, for example, by optical signals of a red color and/or optical signals output with a second blinking frequency, which is higher in comparison with the first blinking frequency. The same is of course also true of the output of acoustic signals, wherein the frequency and/or rhythm of a tone and/or a tone sequence in particular can be varied as a function of the weight of the bait 2 and/or of the forces acting on the bait 2 or the bait-holding device 12.

[0156] Contrary to the configuration of the output means on the housing part 3 shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 9-12, i.e., on the top side of the cover element 6, it is also possible that the/an output means 27 is integrated into an external mobile terminal, such as a smartphone, for example. In this case, the closed-position-detecting device 26 and/or the bite-detecting device 29 is equipped to communicate with the external mobile terminal and to transmit the closed-position information and/or the bite information to the external mobile terminal for output to the output means there. The communication is radio-based in particular, i.e., implemented via Bluetooth, Wifi, etc., for example, which is why the closed-position-detecting device 26 and/or the bite-detecting device 29 include(s) corresponding radio-based transmission equipment.

[0157] As can be seen, a receiving chamber 31 is formed in the receiving space 5, electrical and/or electronic components of the apparatus 1 being disposed therein, i.e., in particular the control unit 24 and corresponding detecting devices 26, 29 as well as optional devices for their electric power supply such as electric energy storage systems, for example. The receiving chamber 31 offers protection for these components with respect to external influences, i.e., in particular climatic and mechanical.

[0158] Both the closed-position-detecting device 26 and the bite-detecting device 29 are optional and/or not absolutely necessary for the basic principle of the invention as implemented by means of the device 1.

[0159] FIGS. 13 through 17 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus 1 for holding bait 2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. As can be seen, FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the apparatus 1, FIG. 14 is a longitudinal section through the apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 13; FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of the detail VII shown in FIG. 14; FIG. 16 is a top view of the apparatus 1 and FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the detail IX shown in FIG. 14.

[0160] As revealed by the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-17, the housing part 3 belonging to the apparatus 1 may also be embodied in multiple parts. The housing part 3 here is embodied as an upper housing part segment 3a and a lower housing part segment 3b. The housing part segments 3a, 3b can be fastened to one another by means of holding clamps that are not identified further. Other fastening principles are of course also possible for fastening the housing part segments 3a and 3b to one another.

[0161] On the outside circumference of the lower housing part segment 3b, a fastening device 35 on the housing-part side by means of which the housing part 3 is and/or can be fastened, in particular releasably, on a wall of the sewer system 4, is disposed in the region of the end facing away from the upper housing part segment 3a.

[0162] The fastening device 35 here comprises an outer ring element 36 made of steel, for example. The ring element 36 can be fastened onto the wall of a manhole by means of a profile-type holder 37, shown in FIG. 13. As revealed in FIG. 15, an annular disk-shaped holding web 38 develops out of the ring element 36 in the radial direction. The holding web 38 supports a securing element 39 fastened on the outside wall 10 of the housing part 3, i.e., the outside wall 10 of the lower housing part segment 3b. The securing element 39 which is also embodied here in an annular shape is fastened onto the housing part 3, i.e., the outside wall 10 on the housing-part side, by means of a catch mechanism. The catch mechanism is implemented by the interaction of the catch elements on the housing outside wall side in the form of catch protrusions not shown in greater detail and opposing catch elements on the securing-element side in the form of catch recesses 66, in which the catch element on the housing outside wall side can engage. An inverted configuration is of course also conceivable, i.e., catch elements in the form of catch recesses on the housing outside wall side and catch elements in the form of catch protrusions on the securing-element side.

[0163] A region of the ring element 36 formed beneath the holding web 38 serves as a contact surface in the closed position for a sealing element (not identified further) disposed and/or designed on the closing body 15 and the outside circumference side.

[0164] The securing element 39 serves for nondetachable disposition of the closing body 15 on the housing part 3. This is implemented by the fact that a protrusion 40, embodied here as an angle on the securing-element side, engages in the guide sections 13 on the housing-part side formed between the outside wall 10 on the housing-part side and the inside walls 11, which are offset radially to the latter toward the inside; the closing body 15 is prevented from slipping out of the guide section 13 by a protrusion 41 protruding radially from the upper section of the guide elements 14 on the closing-body side.

[0165] It can be seen in FIG. 14 that the surfaces 42 developing out of the closing section 16 of the closing body 15 are embodied with a slight inclination, i.e., by 3 to 5, for example, so that water on the closing body 15 can flow radially outward.

[0166] A cylinder-type receiving body 31 is disposed in the region forming a top side and/or end face of the housing part 3, i.e., the upper housing part segment 3a. The receiving chamber 31 has a receiving-chamber-base body 44 delimiting a cylinder-type receiving body 43 for receiving electrical and/or electronic components of the apparatus 1. As can be seen, the receiving-chamber-base body 44 protrudes into the receiving space 5 on the housing-part side in some sections.

[0167] A bait-holding device 12 for holding the bait 2 is disposed on a lower section of the receiving-chamber-base body 44 protruding into the receiving space 5 on the housing-part side.

[0168] The receiving chamber 31 is releasably fastenable on the housing part 3, i.e., the upper housing part segment 3a here. The releasable fastening of the receiving chamber 31 on the housing part 3 is or can be formed by form-fitting interaction of fastening sections 45 on the housing-part side with fastening sections 46 on the receiving-chamber-base-body side. The receiving chamber 31 and the housing part 3 are thus each equipped with fastening sections 45 and 46 by means of whose interaction a stable and/or nondetachable, likewise releasable, fastening of the receiving chamber 31 on the housing part 3 can be implemented. As is apparent on the basis of FIG. 17 in particular, a form-fitting interaction of the respective fastening sections 45 and 46 is understood to be an intermeshing or overlapping of corresponding fastening sections 45 and 46 in at least some sections.

[0169] The receiving chamber 31 is disposed on the housing part 3, mounted to rotate between a fastened position and a release position. In the fastened position, the fastening sections 45 on the housing-part side and the fastening sections 46 on the receiving-chamber-base-body side interact in such a way that the receiving chamber 31 is releasably fastened on the housing part 3. In the release position, the fastening sections 45 on the housing-part side and the fastening sections on the receiving-chamber-base-body side do not interact, so that the receiving chamber 31 is releasable from the housing part 3. The fastening of the receiving chamber 31 on the housing part 3 may thus be established and canceled by rotational movements of the receiving chamber 31 about an axis of rotation, which typically coincides with the central axis of the receiving chamber 31 relative to the housing part 3. The receiving chamber 31 can thus be converted from the fastened position into the release position and vice versa by rotational movements relative to the housing part 3.

[0170] As derived from FIG. 17, the fastening sections 45 on the housing-part side are designed as a ring-segment disk element 48 protruding radially inward from an axially-aligned cylinder-type section 47 of the housing part 3, having at least one shoulder-type fastening protrusion 49 protruding away from it axially. The fastening sections 46 on the receiving-chamber-base-body side are designed as a ring-segment disk element 51 protruding radially outward from a cylinder-type shoulder 50 of the receiving-chamber-base body 44, with an axially-protruding shoulder-type fastening protrusion 52, corresponding to the fastening protrusion 49 formed on the fastening section 45 on the housing-part side, i.e., designed and/or aligned to be opposite.

[0171] To implement corresponding rotational movements of the receiving chamber 31 relative to the housing part 3, the receiving chamber 31 has a tool working region 54 in the region of a cover section 53 exposed at the top as shown in FIG. 16, a T-shaped tool 54 here being able to engage therein with an engagement section 57 in a form-fitting manner. Rotational movements can be transferred to the receiving chamber 31 by means of the tool 55 engaging in the tool working region 54 as shown in FIG. 16 in order to convert the receiving chamber 31 from the fastened position into the release position and vice versa. As can be seen, the tool working region 54 here is designed with tool receptacles 58 in the form of ring segments, into which the engagement section 57, which is designed to have a roundish cross section, can engage on the tool side, so that counterclockwise rotational movements of the tool 55 can lead to counterclockwise rotational movements of the receiving chamber 31. A stop section 59 is designed and disposed opposite the engagement section 57 on the circumference. A clearance space 60 extending around the periphery is formed between the engagement section 58 and the stop section 59, by means of which the tool 55 can be inserted into the tool working region 54 in order to interact with the former accordingly.

[0172] Due to the configuration and/or design of the tool working region 54 in the region of an upper exposed cover section 53 on the receiving chamber 31, the tool working region 54 is always accessible (from above). The geometric shape of the tool working region 54 is adapted to the shape of the tool 55. In the present case, the geometric shape of the tool working region 54 is such that a T-shaped tool 55 can act on it in a form-fitting manner, so that rotational movements can be transferred to the receiving chamber 31 via rotational movements of the tool 55, as indicated by the double arrow 56.

[0173] Accordingly, the tool working region 54 is readily accessible, i.e., in particular from above, in a condition of the apparatus 1 as inserted into a manhole. Through suitable shaping and dimensioning of a corresponding tool 55, it is not absolutely necessary for a user to descend into the manhole in order to convert the receiving chamber 31 from the fastened position into the release position or vice versa through corresponding rotational movements. The receiving chamber 31 may thus be released from the housing part 3 from outside of the manhole and removed from the manhole, if necessary. This may be practical for monitoring purposes, for example, to ascertain whether there has been a bite on the bait, so that controls can be greatly simplified and can be performed much more promptly.

[0174] In particular, since the bait 2 is held via the bait-holding device 12 disposed on the receiving chamber 31, the receiving chamber 31 together with the bait-holding device 12 and the bait 2 held thereon can be removed from the manhole without entering the manhole; it is possible to detect whether there has been a bite on the bait and, if necessary, to replace the/one bait 2 and the receiving chamber 31 together with the bait-holding device 12 and the bait 2 held thereon can be reintroduced back into the manhole.

[0175] FIGS. 18 through 21 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus 1 for holding bait 2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 18 shows a strict schematic diagram of the exemplary embodiment of the apparatus 1; FIG. 19 shows a perspective diagram of the exemplary embodiment of the apparatus 1; FIG. 20 shows a longitudinal section through the diagram shown in FIG. 19 and FIG. 21 shows an enlarged view of the detail shown in FIG. 20.

[0176] The apparatus 1 shown in FIGS. 18-21 additionally comprises a flood-protection element 61 for protection against the penetration of water into the receiving space 5, which is delimited by the housing part 3, in particular into an upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 situated above the passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side in the event of a sudden and/or surging rise in the one level in the manhole, into which the housing part 3 is to be and/or is inserted.

[0177] The flood-protection element 61 is disposed beneath the bait platform 8 on the housing-part side. The flood-protection element 61 has an annular and/or cylindrical base body 62, which delimits a water surge receding volume 63 for receiving a certain amount of water flowing in the/a manhole. A sudden surge-type rise in the water level in the manhole due to heavy rain, for example, thus results in the water first penetrating from underneath into the flood-receiving volume 63 and filling it up.

[0178] The closing body 15, which is designed here as a float, is mounted movably with the base body 62 of the flood-protection element 61, i.e., within the flood-receiving volume 63, in such a way that it is moved from the open position shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 into the closed position indicated with a dotted line in FIG. 18 with a rise in the water level in the flood-receiving volume 63 associated with the admission of water into the flood-receiving volume 63. The movable mounting of the closing body 15 is implemented and/or supported by a holder 64 on the housing-part side, here in the form of an angular gallows holder, but a simple hanging holder, such as that shown in FIG. 18, would also be equally possible.

[0179] In the closed position, the closing body 15 having a closing section 16 is in sealing contact with contact sections 17 being formed on the edge on the bait-platform side in some sections, which delimit the passage opening 9, which is in turn delimited on the bait-platform side. Penetration of water into the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 on the housing-part side is prevented by the sealing contact of the closing body 15 with corresponding contact sections 17 on the bait-platform side. There is no possibility for water to enter the upper region 5a of the receiving space 5 and be contaminated there by the substances contained in the bait 2.

[0180] The base body 62 of the flood-protection element 61 is shown here as open, i.e., without a bottom surface. However, it is of course also possible for the base body 62 to comprise a bottom surface having at least one water surge inlet opening in the region of its side facing away from the bait platform 8. The closing body 15 may then be disposed in the floodwater-inlet opening in at least some sections when in the open position. When there is a rise in the water level, the closing body 15, which is designed as a float, as already mentioned, rises up from the water surge inlet opening, so that water can enter the flood-receiving volume 63 until the closing body 15 is finally moved away from the open position into the closed position, as already described.

[0181] The base body 62 of the flood-protection element 61 in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 18 comprises a number of feet 65, designed in the form of webs, for example, which serve to support the base body 62, optionally also the housing part 3 disposed thereon plus the components of the apparatus 1 fastened or disposed therein. However, the base body 62 may of course also be designed to be completely flat on the bottom and/or end side and thus the corresponding feet 65 may be omitted.

[0182] On the basis of FIG. 19, it is again apparent that the apparatus 1 can be fastened on the wall of a manhole via a corresponding fastening device 35. The fastening device 35 therefore comprises an outer ring element 36 made of steel, for example. The ring element 36 can be fastened on the wall of a manhole via a profile-type holder 37. As can be seen, in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 19, the corresponding feet 65 are omitted on the part of the flood-protection element 61. To implement a stable mounting of the apparatus 1 on a substrate, the profile-type holder 37 is designed with an extension and comprises a mounting leg 67 protruding away from the latter at an angle, in particular at a plumb line, said mounting leg thus being identified as or considered to be a pedestal of the apparatus 1.

[0183] The flood-protection element 61 is fastened on the housing part 3 here by screw connections. Accordingly, both the flood-protection element 61 and the housing part 3, here provided with screw receptacles 68 on the outside circumference, through which screw-type connecting elements (not shown in detail here), in particular threaded screws can be passed. It is of course also conceivable to provide each of the corresponding screw receptacles 68 on the inside circumference side.

[0184] It is apparent from the sectional view shown in FIG. 20 that the ring element 36 is disposed between the flood-protection element 61 and the housing part 3. On the basis of the detail shown in FIG. 21, it is apparent that the flood-protection element 61 is therefore provided with ring-shaped holding webs 69, which protrude radially accordingly and form a lower mounting point for the ring element 36. The housing part 3 is provided with a radial enlargement 70 in the region of its free end facing the flood-protection element 61, the ring element 36 engaging at the region of its end facing the housing part 3 in said enlargement. A sealing element 71, here in the form of a sealing ring, may be disposed and/or designed between the housing part 3 and the ring element 36.

[0185] FIGS. 22-34 each show a schematic diagram of an apparatus 1 for holding bait 2 according to additional exemplary embodiments of the invention. It can be seen that FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an apparatus 1 according to an additional exemplary embodiment (housing part 3 is shown as transparent here for reasons of illustration); FIG. 23 is a cross section through the apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 22; FIGS. 24 and 25 are each longitudinal sections through the apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 22; FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an apparatus 1 according to an additional exemplary embodiment; FIG. 28 is a cross section through the apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 27, and FIGS. 29 to 34 are apparatuses 1 according to additional exemplary embodiments.

[0186] On the basis of FIGS. 22 and 23, a mounting of the closing body 15, which is movable relative to the bait platform 8 by means of a clamp-type or bracket-type holding element 72, mounted in particular pivotably on the housing part 3, i.e., on the bait platform 8, is shown. On the one hand, the holding element 72, which is also to be identified as a holding clamp or a holding bracket, is fastened on the housing part 3 and/or the bait platform 8, in particular at one end, and, on the other hand, in particular on the other end, is fastened on the closing body 15. A certain path of movement, which the closing body 15 travels in moving from the open position into the closed position and vice versa is defined on the basis of the tying of the closing body 15 to the holding element 72, the tying of the holding element 72 on the housing part 3 and/or the bait platform 8 as well as the geometric dimensions, i.e., the shape of the holding element 72 in particular (cf. in this regard FIGS. 24 and 25 in particular, which show the closing body 15 in the open position (FIG. 24) and in the closed position (FIG. 25)).

[0187] The holding element 72 comprises two holding element sections 72a and 72b running at an angle to one another. On the basis of FIG. 23, it can be seen that the holding element sections 72a and 72b reach through the passage opening 9, which is delimited on the bait-platform side in the open position of the closing body 15. The holding element sections 72a and 72b are bent in an L shape. The holding 72 thus has an (essentially) L-shaped geometric shape.

[0188] On the basis of the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 22-26, a particularly expedient fastening device 73 by means of which the housing part 3 can be fastened to a wall of a sewer system 4, in particular of a manhole, in particular releasably, is also shown. The fastening device 73 comprises a ring-shaped first fastening element 74, which extends around the housing part 3 on the exterior peripheral side and is fastened on the housing part 3 by means of fastening brackets 76 bolted onto the housing wall 3, and at least one second fastening element 75 for fastening the first fastening element 74 as well as the housing part 3 fastened thereon onto the wall of a sewer system 4 and/or of a manhole. By means of the fastening device 73, fastening of the housing part 3 on a wall of a sewer system 4 and/or of a manhole in a stable manner, in particular with respect to forces acting on the housing part 3 due to high water or a water surge. The fastening of the second fastening element 75 on the wall of a sewer system 4 and/or of a manhole is implemented, for example, by means of fastening bolts 78 and/or screws, which can be anchored in a stable form in the wall of a sewer system 4 and/or of a manhole, for example, by walls or screws, and which pass through horizontal and/or vertical boreholes 77, respectively, originating from the second fastening element 75, optionally provided with a thread.

[0189] As can be seen, the fastening device 73 is designed in multiple parts. To implement a buoyancy safety measure, the second fastening element 75 has a fastening-element section 75a, which extends in some sections beyond the housing part 3 on the top side, forming a buoyance safety measure in some sections. The housing part 3 is thus protected against buoyance forces due to high water and/or water surges and is fastened in its position, in particular vertically, in a fixed position on the sewer system 4.

[0190] All the components of the fastening device 73 are formed from one or more mechanically-stable and corrosion-resistant materials, for example, stainless steels and/or material structures or comprise such materials and/or material structures.

[0191] On the basis of the exemplary embodiments shown in FIG. 26, it can be seen that a plurality of corresponding fastening-element sections 75a may be present. FIG. 26 shows two leg-type and/or strut-type fastening-element sections 75a running at an angle to one another, preferably in a V shape, and connected to one another via another leg-type and/or strut-type fastening-element sections 75a.

[0192] The fastening-element sections 75a shown in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 22-26 are releasably fastened to the exposed top side of the housing part 3 in a form-fitting connection (without damage and/or destruction). The fastening is thus accomplished by means of a form fit, i.e., by way of the form-fitting interaction of form-fitting element 79 on the part of the fastening-element sections 75a with corresponding form-fitting elements 80 on the part of the housing part 3. Form-fitting elements 79 formed on the respective fastening-element sections 75a are designed as passages, form-fitting elements 80 formed on the housing part 3 are formed by protrusions, in particular vertical ones which grip into or through corresponding passages in the fastened state.

[0193] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 26, it can be seen that the respective fastening-element sections 75a are designed with reinforcing structures 81, in particular those with a reduced cross section, to increase the mechanical stability of the fastening-element sections 75a. It is thus possible to reduce the material thickness and thus the weight of the fastening device 73 without any loss of the mechanical stability of the fastening device 73. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 26, the corresponding reinforcing structures 81 are beads.

[0194] The respective fastening-element sections 75a are designed as separate components in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 22-26 and are fastened releasably on a profile-type base body of the second fastening element 75 by means of screw bolts 82, i.e., a screw fastening (without damage and/or destruction). The fastening-element sections 75a could of course also be designed in one piece with the second fastening element 75.

[0195] FIGS. 24 and 25 show an optional monitoring device 83 for monitoring at least one part of the receiving space 5 delimited by the housing part 3. The monitoring device 83 is disposed on the receiving chamber 31 in such a way that the most extensive possible monitoring of the receiving space 5 can be implemented. The monitoring device 83 comprises a suitable optical sensor system for monitoring the receiving space 5. The monitoring device 83 is designed as an infrared sensor system and/or camera in the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 24 and 25.

[0196] It is possible by means of the monitoring device 83 to detect and evaluate all processes in the/a certain region and/or subregion of the receiving space 5. In particular, rodent-related processes can be detected quantitatively and/or qualitatively and evaluated and/or assessed. Processes of particular interest to be monitored quantitatively and/or qualitatively include, for example, ingresses of rodents into the receiving space 5, egresses of rodents out of the receiving space 5, the behavior, i.e., in particular the biting and/or movement behavior of the respective rodents having ingress into the receiving space 5 in the receiving space 5, etc. In general, the frequenting of the receiving space 5 per unit of time can be detected and evaluated and/or assessed quantitatively and/or qualitatively. Since monitoring information and/or data detected by the monitoring device 83 can of course be transmitted via a communications link designed via a suitable communications device 91, in particular radio based, to an external terminal 92 on the user side, in particular a mobile terminal, a monitoring of all processes in the receiving space 5 can be implemented via a corresponding monitoring device 83 without the requirement of entry into the manhole equipped with the apparatus 1 and/or into the sewer system 4 equipped with the apparatus 1. The communication is expediently radio based, i.e., via Bluetooth, Wifi, etc., for example, which is why the monitoring device 83 comprises and/or is connected to a corresponding radio-based transmission equipment unit (not shown).

[0197] The monitoring device 83 is supplied with electric power via a rechargeable electric energy storage system 84 disposed in the receiving chamber 31. The energy storage system 84 is an electrochemical energy storage system in the form of a rechargeable battery. Use of an inductive energy storage system, i.e., one that is rechargeable by means of electromagnetic induction would also be conceivable.

[0198] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 22-25, a surface structuring 85 of the cup-shaped and/or spherical-segment-shaped closing body 15 can be detected in some sections. The surface structuring 85 facilitates access to the bait platform 8 for a rodent via the closing body 15. The surface structuring 85 is designed as a stepped and/or ribbed structure of the circular disk-shaped segment of the spherical-segment-shaped closing body 15 and offers a hold and/or sticking for a rodent entering the closing body 15. The surface structuring 85 inhibits or prevents the rodent from slipping off the closing body 15 and thus serves in the sense of an entry assistance for access to the bait platform 8. A corresponding surface structuring 85 of course inversely also serves in the sense of an exit assistance for a rodent for leaving the bait platform 8. In addition, an annular section 86 which also serves in the sense of a corresponding entry aid and/or exit aid is also present on the side of the closing body 15.

[0199] FIG. 23 also shows a region 87 for a bait 2 delimited by a wall 88 protruding at an angle from the bait platform 8, in particularly vertically.

[0200] The exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 27 and 28 shows a special mounting of a corresponding energy storage system 84. The energy storage system 84 is mounted on a bottom plate 94 fastened (releasably) on a bottom section 93 of the receiving chamber 31 protruding into the receiving space 5. The bottom plate 94 is fastened on the bottom section 93 by means of fastening screws, which are not identified in greater detail (cf. FIG. 28). As can be seen, a sealing element 96 in the form of a sealing ring is situated between the bottom plate 94 and the bottom section 93. Another sealing element, which is not identified further, is situated between the receiving chamber 31 and the housing part 3.

[0201] The bottom plate 94 is provided with walls 95 protruding at an angle, in particular vertically, delimiting a receiving region for the energy storage system 84. The energy storage system 84 can typically be disposed with an accurate fit in the receiving region. The bottom plate 94 together with the energy storage system 84 disposed thereon can be considered to this extent as a separate module that can be fastened to the receiving chamber 31 and can be released easily from the receiving chamber 31 and fastened on it again, for example, as part of an exchange or recharging operation for the energy storage system 84.

[0202] As can be seen, both the monitoring unit 83 and the communications unit 91 are disposed at the side of the energy storage system 84 on the bottom section 93. An opening 95 on the bottom section side is provided for the monitoring unit 83.

[0203] Another possibility of movable mounting of a closing body 15 by means of a flap-valve device 89 is recognizable on the basis of the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 29 and 30. According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 29, a corresponding flap-valve device 89 comprises a flap-valve element 90, which is movably mounted relative to the bait platform 8, in particular being mounted pivotably, and which is moved away from the bait platform 8 in an open position, such that the passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side is exposed and is moved toward the bait platform 8 in a closed position, represented by dotted lines, such that the passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side is closed. The closing body 15 here may be an integral component of the flap-valve device 89 in the form of a corresponding flap-valve element 90. It will of course also be possible to fasten a separate closing body 15 on a corresponding flap-valve 90. The closing body 15 may be designed as a float or may at least comprise a float.

[0204] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 30, it can be seen that a corresponding flap-valve device 89 may also comprise a plurality of flap-valve elements 90, which are moved away from the bait platform 8 in a respective open position, such that the passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side is exposed, and moved toward the bait platform 8 in a respective closed position, which is shown with a dotted line, such that the passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side is closed jointly by the flap-valve elements 90. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 30, the respective closing bodies 15 are disposed on the respective flap-valve elements 90.

[0205] On the basis of the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 31 to 34, it can be seen that a plurality of bait platforms 8 may be disposed in the housing part 3. At least one closing body 15, which is mounted movably relative to at least one bait platform 8, is provided, wherein the closing body 15 is moved away from the respective at least one bait platform 8 in an open position, such that the respective at least one passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side is exposed, and in a closed position is moved toward the at least one bait platform 8, such that the respective at least one passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side is closed. The principle of the hermetically sealing closure of a passage opening 9 delimited on the bait-platform side as described here via a closing body 15 moved into a corresponding closed position is also applicable here accordingly.

[0206] As can be seen, the respective bait platforms 8 are disposed one above the other and/or among one another. A plurality of bait platforms 8 may be disposed in parallel in at least some sections. An intermediate space 97 defining an intermediate plane is formed between two bait platforms 8 disposed side by side. The intermediate spaces 97 communicate with one another through the respective passage openings 9 delimited on the bait-platform side. There is thus a possibility of passage between the individual bait platforms 8, i.e., from a lowest bait platform 8 to a highest bait platform 8.

[0207] Corresponding intermediate spaces 97 cause a flow-based calming, influencing the flow of water rising in the housing part 3 in general. The water flowing into the housing part 3 and rising therein must thus pave the way upward over multiple intermediate levels, which leads to a calming of the flow of the water. The respective bait platforms 8 may also be provided in at least some sections with a surface structuring (not shown), for example, in the form of flow-influencing ribs and/or beads, which influence the flow, in particular the type of flow and/or the velocity of flow of water flowing along this and/or water rising in the housing part 3.

[0208] As can be seen, the passage openings 9 delimited by the respective bait platforms 8 are disposed at an offset relative to one another. Due to the offset configuration of the respective passage openings 9, calming of water rising in the housing part 3 is also possible. The offset configuration of the respective passage openings 9 also facilitates the movement of a rodent between the respective intermediate spaces 97 and/or intermediate levels.

[0209] It can be seen on the basis of FIGS. 32 and 33 that a bait platform 8 may be designed in at least some sections with a bait platform section running at an inclination or bent and/or curved relative to at least one additional bait platform 8 disposed in particular next to it. Likewise, an influence on the flow of water rising in the housing part 3 can be implemented through corresponding inclined and/or bent and/or curved profiles of corresponding bait platforms 8. Inclined and/or bent and/or curved profiles of corresponding bait platforms 8 also facilitate the ascent and/or descent or rodents between the respective intermediate spaces 97 and/or intermediate levels in the sense of ramps going up and/or down.

[0210] As indicated in FIG. 31 as an example for the lowest bait platform 8, a bait platform 8 may be designed in at least some sections with hole-type opening and/or perforations permeating through it in at least some sections but not identified further as an additional measure to influence the flow of water rising in the housing part 3. Corresponding openings that resemble a perforated (plate) structure in general can thus dampen the flow of rising water and thus also calm it. The openings are recognizably present in addition to the respective passage openings 9 and differ in particular in their size, in particular in their diameter, from the respective passage openings 9; the openings are small in comparison with the respective flow-openings 9. Roundish openings, for example, may have a diameter between 50 m and 3 mm, in particular between 100 m and 2 mm.

[0211] In general, i.e., fundamentally independently of providing a plurality of bait platforms 8, it should be noted that because of the given volume (internal volume) and the imperviousness of the housing part 3, a counterpressure builds up in the housing part 3 when water flows into and/or rises in the housing part 3. This counterpressure is opposed to the inflowing and/or rising water and/or counteracts the inflow and/or rise of water. This is due to the fact that the air in the housing part 3 is compressed due to the inflow and rise of water. The rise of water in the housing part 3 thus becomes increasingly difficult due to the counterpressure that develops.

[0212] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 33, it can be seen that at least one bait platform 8 may be designed to extend in at least some sections in a spiral or helical form through the housing part 3 in at least some sections. Through a corresponding spiral or helical design of the bait platform 8 (like a spiral staircase) a rodent penetrating into the housing part 3 can easily move within the housing part 3, for example, to arrive at a bait 2. Spiral or helical bait platforms 8 may also have an influence on the flow of water rising in the housing part 3.

[0213] As can be seen, different possibilities of mounting of corresponding closing bodies 15 are shown in FIGS. 31 to 34. These may of course be combined as desired. The number and configuration of the respective closing bodies 15 on the respective bait platforms 8 is of course merely exemplary and can be combined in any way. The situation is of course similar for the number and configuration of respective bait platforms 8.

[0214] On the basis of the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 35 to 37, there is also the possibility of a movable guide, in particular linearly, of the housing part 3 inserted into a manhole 98 along and/or relative to a wall of the manhole 98. The housing part 3 here is thus not fastened via a corresponding fastening device 35 and 73, but instead is guided movably along and/or relative to a wall of the manhole 98, in particular linearly, by means of a guide device 99. By means of a such a guide device 99, it is thus possible for the housing part 3, which is inserted into the manhole 98 plus components of the apparatus 1 disposed therein and/or thereon, to be guided movably, in particular linearly, to be moved inside the manhole 98. Movements of the housing part 3 take place along an axis of movement running vertically, indicated by the double arrow oriented vertically, i.e., for example, along an axis of symmetry or a central axis of the manhole 98. The housing part 3 is guided so it is movable and secured against tilting in the manhole 98 by means of the guide device 99. The guide device 99 thus prevents the housing part 3 from tilting in the manhole 98.

[0215] In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 35, a guide device 99 is shown, comprising a plurality of wheel-type or roller-type guide elements 100 disposed in distribution on and/or around the housing part 3; by means of these guide elements, the housing part 3 is guided movably along the wall of the manhole 98, so that it can roll along the wall of the manhole 98. Corresponding wheel-type or roller-type guide elements 100 are in direct contact with the wall of the manhole 98, so that no special measures are necessary for implementing the movable guidance of the housing part 3 on the wall side. The wheel-type or roller-type guide elements 100 are specifically wheels and/or rollers.

[0216] The wheel-type or roller-type guide elements 100 are supported on a holding device 101 disposed on designed on the housing part 3. The wheel-type or roller-type guide elements 100 are braced by means of the holding device 101 against the wall of the manhole 98. A secure vertical positioning of the housing part 3 in the manhole 98 is possible due to such a holding and bracing. The tensioning force is selected so that uncontrolled sinking of the housing part 3 is prevented; vertical movements of the housing part 3, for example, caused by water surge-induced buoyance forces, in particular in the direction of a manhole cover 102 and/or in the direction of an upper manhole opening, are likewise possible.

[0217] The holding device 101 comprises holding arms 103, which are mounted foldably and/or pivotably on the housing part 3 and are foldable or pivotable against the wall of the manhole 98. The holding arms 103 are coupled to a tension element 104, in particular a spring element, for example, in the form of a compression spring. A tensioning force, in particular a spring force, bracing the guide elements 100 against the wall of the manhole 98 is exerted on the holding arms 103 by means of the tension elements 104 disposed between the housing part 3 and the respective holding arms 103. By means of a holding device 101 designed in such a way, the housing part 3 can be inserted into a plurality of manholes 98 having different diameters and braced (at an angle) against the manhole walls.

[0218] A holding device 101 shown with dotted lines comprises holding arms 103 that can be extended, in particular like a telescope, and can be lengthened radially (with respect to the axis of symmetry or the central axis of the housing part 3 and/or of the manhole 98) toward the walls of the manhole 98 (cf. the horizontal double arrow). These holding arms 103 can be coupled similarly to corresponding tension elements 104 in particular spring elements, for example, in the form of compression springs.

[0219] In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 36, a guide device 99 is shown, comprising a gearwheel-type linear guide element 105 on the housing-part side and a corresponding toothed rack-type linear guide element 106 that corresponds and/or interacts with it on the (manhole) wall side. By means of the guide device 99, the housing part 3 is guided so that it is linearly movable on the wall of the manhole 98. In this case, the guide device 99 thus also comprises guide elements in the form of corresponding linear guide elements 106 in the form of toothed racks on the wall side. The linear guide elements 105 and 106 on the housing-part side and on the wall side are in mechanical engagement and/or a mechanical operative connection, i.e., they interact, forming a corresponding linear guide.

[0220] For the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, it likewise holds that the respective guide devices 99 may comprise a drive device (not shown), in particular motorized, that is or can be coupled to at least one guide element 100 and/or linear guide element 105 and 106 and is equipped to transfer a drive force, which induces a unidirectional or bidirectional drive movement in the guide elements 100 and/or linear guide elements 105 and 106, to guide elements 100 and/or linear guide element 105 and 106. Such a drive device may be designed or disposed on or in the housing part 3. Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding drive device may also be designed or disposed in or on a corresponding guide element 100 and/or linear guide element 105 and 106, i.e., for example, integrated into a wheel-type or roller-type guide element 100 or into a gearwheel. A corresponding drive device may be an electric motor whose power is supplied like the power supply of other electrical and/or electronic components of the apparatus 1.

[0221] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 37, it can be seen that a guide device 99 may also comprise a profile-type or rod-type guide element 107 fastened in the manhole 98 and disposed on the housing part 3 and/or passing through the latter, in particular axially. The housing part 3 here is also guided so that it is movable linearly relative to the profile rod-type guide element 107. This also includes fastening of the housing part 3 on the profile-type or rod-type guide element 107, which is in turn fastened on the manhole side, i.e., being walled, bolted, etc., for example. As can be seen, the profile-type or rod-type guide element 107 in the exemplary embodiment is not in direct contact with a manhole wall but instead is disposed concentrically inside the manhole 98. Such a profile-type or rod-type guide element 107 may also be expedient in particular in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 35, which is why it is also represented there with a dotted line because it is optional.

[0222] On the basis of the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 37, it can also be seen that for implementation or support of movements of the housing part 3 in the manhole 98, floats 108 may be present. The positioning of the floats 108 on the housing part 3 is above the closing body 15, which is shown with a dotted line, because it is within the housing part 3 so that water rising in the manhole 98 first reaches the floats 108 on the housing-part side (the closing body 15 is already in the closed position). As shown in FIG. 37, it is possible to arrange separate floats 108 on the housing part 3.

[0223] Alternatively or additionally, the housing part 3 may already be designed with integrated floats 108. This may be implemented structurally, for example, through a housing part wall, which defines or has at least one cavity. The cavity is filled with air, for example. It is also conceivable to manufacture a housing part wall of a low-density material which floats on a water surface and does not sink because of the difference in density. In all cases, an upward movement of the housing part 3 occurs due to a rise in the water level in the manhole 98, and the downward movement of the housing part 3 is induced by a drop in the water level in the manhole 98.

[0224] For all the exemplary embodiments, it is true that the housing part 3 may be provided with reinforcing structures to increase the mechanical stability of the housing part 3. Corresponding reinforcing structures may be designed, for example, in the form of rings or ribs. Corresponding reinforcing structures may be present as separate components, which are to be placed on and/or connected to the housing part 3 or are designed to be integral with the housing part 3.

[0225] All the exemplary embodiments of the apparatus 1 shown in the figures and/or individual features or multiple features of the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures may be combined with one another in any desired way.