A device that makes permanently mounted window bars fire-safe by allowing residents to release them instantly in an emergency won the annual Francis College of Engineering Prototyping Competition, hosted by the Rist DifferenceMaker Institute.

Team Pawva’s Smart Pet Bed, which tracks the weight, body temperature and sleeping patterns of a dog or cat, took the top prize at the Rist DifferenceMaker Institute’s 13th annual $50,000 Idea Challenge.