Project Overview

The BugTorch system is an environmentally friendly network of user controlled, self-filling tiki torches that repel outdoor insects while providing 8 hours of consistent lighting. This project aims to accomplish the following: develop an aesthetically pleasing, low cost, scalable torch system that can be monitored from an app or tablet.

Users will assume control over the system through the application which will actively display torch oil levels.  Once the system identifies a “low” fuel level a central controller will begin refilling the individual torch.  This process should repeat for the desired time of eight hours.

The goal for the design team will be to successfully integrate all pieces of the system.  This includes the fuel line connections and pump subsystem, oil level sensor, microcontroller, and smart device app in a four to eight tiki torch prototype which can be scaled up accordingly.

It is essential that the design and prototype remains consistent with the current US patent on file (10842146 B1) at the very least, but new intellectual property has the potential to elevate the design to fit the needs of the stakeholders. Specific materials for torch heads must be used to maintain grant funding.