Public smoking in non-smoking zones remains a stubborn challenge, undermining health regulations and creating discomfort for non-smokers. While traditional approaches like signage and fines exist, they often lack immediacy or require constant human monitoring. An automated deterrent system could address this gap by providing instant, consistent enforcement.

How the System Would Work

The concept involves combining smoke detection with targeted water dispersal to discourage violations. Here's how it could function:

• Specialized sensors would detect cigarette smoke in the protected area
• Visual confirmation would ensure the system only activates when someone is actually holding a cigarette
• A brief, directional water spray would target the violator while avoiding bystanders
• The system would then reset automatically to prevent over-spraying

Additional features might include warning sounds before activation or data collection to identify frequent offenders. The water spray approach builds on existing behavioral psychology principles where immediate consequences tend to be more effective deterrents than delayed penalties.

Implementation Strategy

One way to test and develop this concept could involve:

1. Starting with a basic motion-activated sprayer in controlled environments to assess deterrent effectiveness
2. Progressing to integrated smoke detection in small public spaces with clear warnings about the system
3. Eventually expanding to high-traffic areas after refining targeting accuracy and public acceptance

Key considerations would include minimizing false activations through multi-sensor validation and protecting the equipment from potential vandalism through tamper-resistant designs.

Potential Benefits and Considerations

Such a system could benefit non-smokers through cleaner air, property managers through reduced enforcement costs, and local governments through improved public health metrics. However, successful implementation would require:

• Clear communication about the system's presence through signage
• Careful calibration to avoid nuisance activations
• Community engagement to gauge acceptance and address concerns

The concept differs from existing solutions like ultrasonic deterrents or passive signage by providing immediate, behavior-specific feedback without requiring human enforcement.