A University of Southampton master's student has created an AI-powered, chemical-free device designed to repel malaria-transmitting mosquitoes using adaptive sound.
Key facts
- •Ulrich Mefenya Tanetsing contracted malaria as a child growing up in Cameroon.
- •ISARS uses adaptive sound frequencies to disrupt mosquito navigation without requiring chemicals or an internet connection.
- •World Health Organization data shows that 76% of malaria deaths in sub-Saharan Africa occur in children under five.
- •Tanetsing is a finalist in the ESBF national Champion of Champions student innovation competition.
- •He will pitch his device at the Royal Academy of Engineering in London for a share of £16,500 in prize money.
Ulrich Mefenya Tanetsing, a 23-year-old biomedical engineering master's student at the University of Southampton, has invented an AI-powered device called ISARS to detect and repel mosquitoes. Drawing on his childhood experiences with malaria in Cameroon, Tanetsing designed the low-cost, chemical-free gadget to use targeted, continuously adapting sound frequencies that disrupt mosquito navigation without disturbing human sleep.
By the numbers
How the ISARS Device Works
The Intelligent Species-Specific Acoustic Repulsion System (ISARS) identifies malaria-transmitting mosquito species by recognizing the sound of their wingbeats. Inspired by a documentary on submarines using acoustic technology to steer whales, Tanetsing developed the system to emit a subtle, continuously adapting sound frequency rather than a single repeated tone. The device operates without chemicals, internet access, or complex infrastructure, making it suitable for remote communities.
Addressing Current Prevention Limitations
Existing malaria prevention methods such as insecticide-treated bed nets, chemical sprays, and electronic repellents have notable drawbacks. Tanetsing noted that mosquitoes can develop adaptations to insecticides and repetitive electronic sounds, chemical sprays can affect human health, and nets can be uncomfortable. His prevention-focused approach aims to reduce the overall costs associated with malaria treatment and management.
Competition and Upcoming Presentations
Tanetsing is one of 10 finalists in the national Champion of Champions student innovation competition organized by the Engineers and Scientists in Business Fellowship (ESBF). He is scheduled to pitch his innovation next month at the Royal Academy of Engineering in London to compete for business mentoring and a share of £16,500 in prize money. Additionally, he will present his prototype on Wednesday, November 18, at VentureFest South's Festival of Innovation held at Utilita Bowl in Southampton.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Medical Xpress.
