Pyri is an innovative wildfire detector designed as a low-cost, nature inspired early alert system for wild fire-prone areas. The design, inspired by serotinous pinecones, which release seeds in response to heat, activates only when exposed to fire, making it a cost-effective and maintenance-free solution. The device recently won the UK National James Dyson Award and Terra Carta Design Lab awards the for its ground-breaking approach and product design.
Developed by a team from Imperial College London and the Royal College of Art, Pyri is constructed from biodegradable materials. Unlike traditional detection systems that rely on expensive satellite monitoring or camera networks, Pyri operates without external power sources utilising RF signals. When the surrounding temperature reaches a critical threshold, its wax shell melts, releasing a saltwater solution that completes an electrical circuit. This activation triggers a radio frequency signal, alerting authorities and nearby communities to the presence of fire.
Pyri’s simplicity makes it highly deployable in remote and high-risk areas, where conventional detection methods may not be feasible. Designed to be scattered via aircraft or installed manually, it offers a scalable solution to wildfire detection. As climate change continues to increase wildfire frequency and intensity, Pyri represents a crucial innovation for early intervention and environmental protection.
Source: James Dyson Award
