Torch (company)

Torch is an American company based in San Francisco, California that develops technology for early detection of outdoor fires. Founded in 2020 by Michael Buckwald, Vasya Tremsin and Anton Tremsin, Torch uses infrared sensors, visible cameras and gas sensors to detect fires.[1][2]

History

The sensor was developed in 2017,[1] and won the Intel ISEF Best of Category Award in Earth and Environmental Sciences at the 2018 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.[3] In 2020, Tremsin teamed up with Michael Buckwald.[4]

In March 2023, a national online survey conducted by Propeller Insights on behalf of Torch Sensors concluded that the majority of respondents believe that wildfires can negatively impact the economy and that the problem will continue to increase as the world battles climate change.[5][6]

In 2023, the company launched low-cost sensors for early-stage outdoor fire and wildfire detection.[7][5]

Technology

A Torch sensor includes infrared cameras, gas sensors and a visible camera to measure thermal, visible and chemical signs of fire.[7] Infrared cameras monitor heat in the surrounding area.[7] Gas sensors measure the smoke content and air quality. Visible cameras are used to separate flames from the environment surrounding them.[8] When a sensor device detects signs of fire it sends notifications through a mobile app.[9] Sensors detect fire on 10 acres (40,468 square meters).[10]

References

  1. ^ a b "Torch Is Making Photo Voltaic-driven Outdoor Sensors To Location Wildfires Early". news4social.com. 2023-03-15. Retrieved 2023-05-12.
  2. ^ Richardson, Rick (2023-04-14). "Solar Sensors Detect Wildfires Early, Saving Lives, Money". CPA Trendlines. Retrieved 2023-05-12.
  3. ^ "April 3, 2023 - Fair Winner to Company Vasya Tremsin and Multi Channel Marketing Caleb O'Dowd". School for Startups Radio. 2023-04-03. Retrieved 2023-05-12.
  4. ^ Morley, Jed (April 6, 2023). "Michael Buckwald: Pioneering Fire Detection with Torch Sensors' Groundbreaking IoT Technology". ValiantCEO.
  5. ^ a b "Torch Sensors Survey Reveals High Concerns Across the US Regarding the Economic and Health Damage of Wildfires". www.businesswire.com (Press release). 2023-03-30. Retrieved 2023-05-12.
  6. ^ malvern-online.com. "Markets". malvern-online.com. Retrieved 2023-05-12.[permanent dead link‍]
  7. ^ a b c "Torch Introduces Low-Cost Comprehensive IoT and AI Solution for Early-Stage Outdoor Fire and Wildfire Detection". www.businesswire.com (Press release). 2023-03-15. Retrieved 2023-05-12.
  8. ^ "S odhalením lesních požárů mají pomáhat čidla na stromech poháněná slunečním světlem". zive.cz (in Czech). Retrieved 2024-06-22.
  9. ^ "4 genius products to help you adapt to climate change". FastCompany. 20 March 2023.
  10. ^ Heater, Brian (2023-03-15). "Torch is building solar-powered outdoor sensors to spot wildfires early". TechCrunch. Retrieved 2023-05-12.