A company incubated at the University of Porto (UPTEC) Park of Science and Technology, has developed a new technology capable of detecting the first flames of a forest fire, allowing combat forces a ‘faster’ action.
“The new technology has a sensor that detects up to about 12 kilometers away, an increase in temperature and a change in the concentration of carbon dioxide in forest environment by emitting a alert the media for help, “said today Lusa responsible for developing the company’s business Flicks, author of the project, Marina Machado.
This project, still in pilot phase, provides information to the media for help exact location, intensity and spread of fire, as well as the necessary means and paths best suited to get there soon “in the first minutes.”
“This way, firefighters can intervene more quickly and efficient in fighting the flames, thus preventing the increase of the burned area, “secured.
Marina Machado explained that the warning given by this technology is primarily issued to command forces, confirmed that the sensor is closest.
“Technology is placed in 12 of 12 kilometers in existing forests, such as old forest structures houses, and in their absence are built new positions always above the canopy and the lowest environmental impact, “said the official.
And, he added,” the technology covers the equivalent of 40 football fields. “
The researcher stressed that the technology works 24 hours per day, through wind or solar energy.
The research for the development of this pilot project began about two years and, after approval of the laboratory tests, waiting now be implemented in the market, requiring an investment of 50 000 euros, Marina Machado said.
According to her, the motivation of the development of this project was related to the goal of fighting a “scourge” that each year affects the country.
“We believe that technology is a support tool and an asset to the forces fighting fires.”
Marina Machado also stressed that technology gives indications on the growth of tree species in the forest.
The dean of the University of Porto (UP) Carlos Brito considered that this project “is no more” than the materialization of knowledge generated within the colleges, creating “economic value and social. “
” This technology is extremely beneficial to society because it saves lives and protects the forest, “also highlighted the director of UPTEC.
The UPTEC in operation for seven years and co-financed by EUR 15.4 million by EU funds, currently hosts over 185 business projects and generated between 2200 to 2500 jobs, revealed the culprit.
In 2013, the UPTEC that encompasses a technology, biotechnology, creative industries and the sea polo, won the European award RegioStars as ‘Smart Growth’.
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