It shocked their quiet suburban neighborhood, but Shanya Gill and her family were shocked to learn last year that the restaurant behind their house had caught fire. They had never experienced anything like it before. Even for sixth grader Gill, the effect was significant.
Gill, a sixth grader, said to Insider, “My family found that very moving as it was an experience we had never truly had before.”
This life-changing event inspired Shanya Gill to create a fire detection device that would identify fires faster than traditional smoke detectors and—most importantly—notify users via text message. Her work demonstrates the creative spirit and potential of young people to positively influence society.
The Innovative Spark
Shanya Gill’s desire to protect her community’s safety drove her into the field of fire detection. She had an idea for a gadget that could possibly save lives and property by not only detecting fires but also promptly alerting locals. Gill entered the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge because of her tenacity.
The Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge
The Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge is no ordinary competition. It brings together the brightest young minds, challenging them to push the boundaries of innovation and problem-solving. In 2022, Gill was one of 65,000 middle schoolers who entered the competition, all with their unique projects.
Gill’s Groundbreaking Invention
Gill’s winning project combines cutting-edge technology and innovative thinking. Her fire-detection device utilizes two key components: a thermal camera and a Raspberry Pi, a small single-board computer. The Raspberry Pi is programmed with Python, while the thermal camera captures images for analysis.
Detecting the Unseen Threat
The primary function of Gill’s invention is to detect unattended fires by analyzing thermal readings. The device can distinguish between thermal readings moving horizontally, such as those caused by a person or an animal, and thermal readings traveling vertically, indicating the presence of smoke rising.
Shanya Gill’s invention goes beyond traditional smoke detectors by identifying fires at an earlier stage, potentially preventing catastrophic damage and loss of life.
Recognition and Future Plans
Shanya Gill’s extraordinary achievement did not go unnoticed. She was awarded the top prize in the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge, outshining 65,000 competitors. Her innovation promises to make a significant impact, and she intends to take her device to the market. Any surplus funds from this endeavor will be directed towards charitable organizations that assist individuals affected by fires.
Making a Difference
Gill’s passion for helping others is at the heart of her project. She aspires to support people who have had their homes destroyed by fires, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding communities and providing assistance to those in need.
In a world where innovation and compassion intersect, Shanya Gill’s invention shines as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the potential of young minds to create positive change. Her journey is an inspiration, and the impact of her invention is sure to be felt for years to come.
