Technologies
Malaria remains a major global public health threat, responsible for the death of ~1 million people annually. Evidence has shown that malaria-carrying mosquitoes are vulnerable to optically-induced sensory interference and damage. This technology creates an infrared optical barrier to disorient mosquitoes, damage their sensory networks, and prevent them from locating their human prey. The device's camera spots approaching mosquitoes, and only then activates an infrared light sheet. The resulting barrier shows an abrupt change in light intensity which can damage insects' sensory systems, but is safe for humans.
Existing chemical methods for controlling mosquito populations may pose direct environmental and health risks, and serious discomfort to users. Thus, there is a great need for environmentally friendly and complementary approaches to mosquito control. Because the power required to disorient a mosquito is small, this device implements an infrared light source that is damaging to insects but safe for humans. A low power green light provides humans visual feedback.
The light barrier can also be tuned to target specific bugs, leaving other small animals unharmed. It has been featured in the New York Times, The Economist, and has been awarded a grant for Grand Challenges in Global Health from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
Tech Ventures Reference: IR M09-076