NJ Teen Invents AI-Powered “Tree” To Lure and Zap Destructive Spotted Lanternflies
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Selina Zhang, a NJ high schooler, invented ArTreeficial, an AI-powered "tree" that lures and zaps invasive spotted lanternflies.
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The trap uses ultrasound to emit a scent that attracts the bugs, then an electric net powered by solar energy shocks them when they land on it.
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Zhang spent weeks observing the pests' behavior in nature to inform the trap's design and train the AI to recognize the bugs.
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The inventor hopes to deploy "ArTreeForests" with multiple traps networked together to better control spotted lanternfly infestations.
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Zhang wants to expand the AI pest control concept to combat other invasive species beyond just the spotted lanternfly.