Optical barrier generator prevents the spread of infectious disease by damaging mosquitoes' sensory systems with infrared light
- Summary
- 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.
- Technology Benefits
- Harmless to the human eyeDoes not use chemicals or biological agents (i.e. environmentally friendly)Provides defense in three dimensions Does not require physical contact with mosquitoesProvides visual feedbackPatent information:Patent Issued (US 8,810,411)Tech Ventures Reference: IR M09-076
- Technology Application
- Mosquito repellent in underdeveloped countries to prevent the spread of malaria and other infectious diseases Repellant for dangerous arthropods other than mosquitoes (e.g. kissing bug)Household consumer product for keeping insects awayCan be used to build insect defense stations at campgroundsProtection of plants from insects in agriculture
- Detailed Technology Description
- None
- *Abstract
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None
- *Inquiry
- Greg MaskelColumbia Technology VenturesTel: (212) 854-8444Email: TechTransfer@columbia.edu
- *IR
- M09-076
- *Principal Investigator
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- *Web Links
- VIDEO PROFILE: SZABOLCS MARKAMosquito-Repelling Light Barriers Show Great Promise in the Containment of Malar: Special from The Record, Dec. 22, 2010
- Country/Region
- USA
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