SmokeCast

A vehicle-mounted environmental sensing device for collecting real-time fire weather and smoke data during wildfire deployments.

Field deployment

SmokeCast combines GPS tracking, live cloud data backup, two-way remote control, and sensors for temperature, relative humidity, wind, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and volatile organic compounds.

As a research assistant in the Fendorf Lab, I am working on the 2027 device redesign, including the enclosure and electronics packaging for reliable use on fire vehicles.

SmokeCast unit installed on the roof of a Type 6 fire vehicle — SmokeCast installed on a Type 6 vehicle

Close view of the SmokeCast unit mounted with suction cups — Deployed unit · suction-cup mounting

8,220Miles traveled

880Hours running

71Deployment days

Designed for deployment

The current system uses a weather-resistant ASA enclosure, vehicle-powered operation, and magnetic, suction-cup, or hard-mount options. Quick-disconnect hardware allows the device to be stowed or reinstalled in under a minute.

Four Mile Fire Protection District Type 6 fire vehicle — Type 6 vehicle · Four Mile Fire Protection District

Sunshine Fire EMS Type 3 fire engine outside the station — Type 3 engine · Sunshine Fire EMS