Buzz Kill Device Uses Smart Lasers

An Engineering Approach to Mosquito Control

Mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting diseases like malaria and dengue fever, posing a challenge for public health and outdoor comfort. Traditional solutions—chemical repellents, sprays, and zappers—have limitations in precision and environmental impact. A new project under development proposes a different method: using LiDAR-based detection and targeted laser pulses to automatically disable mosquitoes mid-flight.

Developed by a China-based team and currently featured on a crowdfunding platform, the device is described as a portable mosquito air defense system, engineered for use in a variety of outdoor settings.

How the System Detects and Responds

The prototype uses light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology to identify objects in its environment. Here’s how the detection and response cycle works:

• The LiDAR continuously scans a defined airspace.

• It identifies objects based on size (2–20 mm) and flight speed (≤1 m/s).

• If the object meets the criteria of a mosquito or similar insect, the system activates a brief laser pulse.

• If an object is too large (e.g., a person or pet), laser activation is automatically suppressed.

No chemical agents or sound-based lures are used. The system operates using pre-defined physical characteristics of insects, and it avoids algorithmic decision-making in favor of fixed trigger parameters.

Effective Range and Insect Targets

The prototype is designed to detect and neutralize:

• Common mosquito species

• Sand flies

• Fruit flies

Its performance is reduced when targeting faster-moving insects such as house flies. However, narrowing the scanning angle from 90° to 45° in a professional configuration may improve effectiveness in those scenarios, especially when the target is moving slowly or resting.

Device Use and Setup Considerations

The system is designed to be:

• Portable, with support for power bank and power station compatibility

• Outdoor-usable, when protected from rain and dust

• Active during both day and night, without relying on visible light lures

Placement recommendations include:

• Under eaves, awnings, or solar panels

• Away from open rain exposure

• In shaded or semi-enclosed areas to prevent sensor obstruction

Charging is supported via PD-compatible adapters, and users must source compliant power banks in regions where battery shipping is restricted.

Project Stage and Development Timeline

At present, the device is in the prototype phase. The team reports that:

• Basic laser targeting and safety detection functions have been demonstrated
• Additional engineering work is needed before mass production
• Target ship date is October 2025, to serve regions with year-round mosquito activity
• Safety certification and regional compliance are in progress

Development takes place in Changzhou and Shenzhen, China. The product’s cost remains relatively high due to the performance requirements of the laser and sensor components.

Manufacturing and Deployment Notes

While early production is limited, the developers have stated that cost reduction is a long-term goal. Distribution interest has been noted in multiple regions, and backers are being kept informed through regular updates and direct communication channels. If funding goals are not met, the project will not proceed to manufacturing.

The device’s current state reflects a balance between engineering feasibility and real-world testing needs. Supporters are engaging with early prototypes to assess practical deployment across various geographies.