Southern California teenager’s invention to get real-world test

IRVINE, Calif. (KTLA) – For the first time, a fire detection system invented by a Newport Beach teenager will be tested in a real-world situation.

Seventeen-year-old Ryan Honary’s system, which he has been developing for five years, will be deployed near the 133 and 405 freeways in Irvine.

Honary’s invention started as a science fair project and has grown into a company called Sensory AI. The system uses three sensors to detect flame, smoke, and heat. Recently, it was upgraded with infrared cameras.

This first test will use a single device with smoke sensors, infrared cameras, and cellular capability to contact firefighters.

“This is super exciting because I’ve been working at this for five years now, and we’ve done test after test to make sure everything works well,” Honary said.

The deployment location was chosen with help from the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) and the City of Irvine. Although Honary is not being paid yet, there is hope that a successful test will lead to a contract.

OCFA confirmed their ongoing support for Honary’s project, but the City of Irvine has not yet responded.

If the test goes well, more devices and a mesh network will be added over time to improve fire detection and response.