Lighting Science Group Corporation and Intellectual Ventures’ Global Good are teaming up on the development of next-generation laser systems that zap mosquitoes while leaving other flying insects unharmed.
Based on Global Good’s photonic fence invention, the system uses low-cost sensors and laser technology with software to identify, track, and eliminate insects.
Referred to tongue-in-cheek as a WMD (Weapon of Mosquito Destruction), apparently the device works effectively at a range of approximately 30 meters. The system has some pretty amazing technology behind it; for example, the software can even detect the gender of the mosquito. This is important as only female mosquitoes bite. Reduced zapping means less power required and less wear and tear on equipment.