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Project Sponsor: Team-Initiated
SmartFly is an integrated solar panel system with severe storm early warning systems, device charging, and GPS tracking protection for campers. SmartFly is designed and developed by the CU Boulder engineering team RAin GEnius, which includes Andrew Bebernes, Brendan Garbrecht, Ryne Silver, Colton Trigg, Jack Verploeg, and Coby Whitmore.
While camping or backpacking in the wonderful National and State parks America has to offer, one of the biggest dangers is limited access to communication services and a sustainable source of power. Lack of information and experience within an area become bigger issues in State parks that are further from home. Unforeseen events, such as severe weather or injuries, can put yourself and your party at great risk if you find yourself out in the wild without smart device service or power.
SmartFly solves these issues by providing campers and wilderness adventurers with a compact and lightweight solar array and weather system that integrates directly into their campsite. The solar array provides power to a mountable LED lamp, an outlet to charge various devices, and a GPS relay to stay connected and get important weather information. Peripheral sensors on the array provide additional weather analysis that does not rely on GPS. A custom Android application can be installed on smart devices, which connects via Bluetooth to display information to devices. The application has Google Maps permissions and can download area maps prior to trips for offline use.
The SmartFly system is designed to improve safety before, during, and after hazardous conditions in the wilderness. When embarking on any camping adventure, two of the most important safety concerns are “making sure someone knows where you are at all times” ([1]) and “staying up-to-date with the weather” ([2]). SmartFly provides reliable access to weather information displayed directly to the user’s smartphone, and automatically captures GPS location. The dependability of these safety features makes the SmartFly ideal for any camper - from beginner to expert.
The outdoor industry generates 7.6 million jobs and $887 billion annually.[3] Between manufacturers, 3rd party integrators, and consumers, there is a large market for the SmartFly safety system. Rain flies generally are used to provide physical protection from the elements. The Smart Fly provides protection through prevention and communication.
[1] Vanvuren, Christina. “10 Ways to Stay Safe While Hiking and Camping - 2018 Guide.” Solvhealth.com, 24 June 2019, www.solvhealth.com/blog/10-ways-to-stay-safe-while-hiking-and-camping-20....
[2] “Camping Safety Tips.” Camping Safety Tips | KOA Camping Blog, koa.com/blog/camping-safety-tips.
[3] Outdoor Recreation Economy. Outdoor Industry Association. https://outdoorindustry.org/advocacy/