SMesh: Air Sensor Networks to Support Fire Management
Pioneering smoke monitoring systems using radio-powered air sensors to monitor smoke from prescribed burns in real-time.
About the Project
Cutting-Edge Technology
Deploying a network of low-cost, low-power air quality sensors connected via radio to monitor smoke in remote areas.
Environmental Impact
Providing real-time data to land managers to optimize prescribed burns and minimize smoke exposure.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Working with local communities and government agencies to ensure the system meets their needs.
The Science Behind It
1
Sensor Deployment
Strategically placing sensors in the field to capture comprehensive smoke data.
2
Radio Communication
Leveraging low-power radio technology to transmit sensor readings in real-time.
3
Data Analysis
Applying advanced algorithms to transform raw sensor data into actionable insights to support prescribed fire and community health management.
Our Innovative Approach
Customized Sensors
Designing specialized air quality sensors tailored to the needs of prescribed fire monitoring.
Scalable Network
Developing a modular, expandable network to cover large areas and diverse landscapes.
User-Friendly Interface
Creating intuitive data visualization and reporting tools for land managers and policymakers.
Partnerships
Collaborating with multiple departments, local communities, and government agencies.
Current Stage
Lab testing at Stanford's Lab64
The team is working at Lab64 to build a modular design of the sensor suite that allows for easy installation and adjustment in various terrain, from dense forests to open grasslands.
Field testing in Northern California
The team has conducted field testing and pilot deployments of the sensor network in several Northern California locations, gathering valuable data and feedback from land managers.
Upcoming Milestones
1
Field Testing
Testing the sensor suites in additional regions for data collection and research.
2
Data Integration
Integrating sensor data with environmental models for comprehensive analysis.
3
Stakeholder Engagement
Strengthening partnerships with land managers, policymakers, and community groups.
Meet the SMesh Team
Jessica Yu, PhD
Environmental Advisor, Research Scientist in Climate and Energy
Lisa Fung
Student Lead, Computer Science
Daniel Neamatti
Student Lead, Aerospace Engineering
Victor Hunyh
Electrical Engineering
Karl Toepperwien, PhD
Atmospheric Science
Hugo Budd
Civil Engineering
SMesh Network
External Contributing Members
- Kirby Fung, Hardware Design
- Benjamin Dourthe, Artificial Intelligence Advisor
- Srikanth Samy, LLM and Chat Interface
Workshop and Field Volunteers
- Aditi Bashkar
- Esmee Cowing
- Javier Ignieto
Opportunities to Get Involved
1
Volunteer
Join our team of scientists, engineers, and environmental enthusiasts and help build sensors and deploy the sensor network in the field.
2
Collaborate
Partner with us to integrate the system into your land management or research activities.
3
Donate
Support the project's expansion and ongoing operations through financial contributions.
Student Opportunities
Our Collaborators
Climate and Energy Policy Program
Stanford University Radio Club
Stanford Lab64
FireForward
Jasper Biological Preserve
Central Coast Prescribed Burn Association
Stanford Student Space Initiative
Swanton Pacific Ranch