Introduction

Living in a world where we are dependent on the Internet of Things (IoT), most people have familiarized themselves with the numerous applications of sensor technology. The sensor technology has been of great help in advancing industrial as well as personal equipment. Nonetheless, we can all agree that this kind of technology has not been fully utilized. However, sensor technology developers from all corners of the world are working day and night to better the role of this technology in industries such as healthcare, automotive, and agriculture amongst others.

Therefore, you should expect better developments towards the end of 2019 and early 2020. Here are the top 6 trends to watch out for in sensor technology.

1. Incorporation of Personal Radar Sensors in the Entire Auto Industry

Modern day vehicles feature radar devices that warn you when an object such as a car, pavement, or wall is close-by. However, this technology is only limited to specific brands in the auto industry. Off late, at the International Consumer of Electronics Show, we did see that personal radar sensors could run on small batteries. As a result, they can be fixed in automotive equipment. Don’t be surprised when you find a personal radar sensor when you buy your next motorcycle or bicycle.

2. Audio Beam Forming in the Communication Industry

With the introduction of smart home equipment, audio beam-forming can play a vital role in the communication industry. This kind of sensor technology enables several microphones to gather data clearly from sound sources. A while back, it was mostly used in manufacturing military equipment. However, sensor tech developers have found a more cost-effective way of how to implement it. There are times when you have to repeat yourself several times when giving audio commands to smart devices. Audio Beam-forming will ensure smooth and efficient communication.

3. Radio Imaging in Security and Manufacturing Industries

As much as CCTV cameras have played their role in ensuring security and supervision. Tricks have emerged on how to disconnect security cameras. And, not to mention, it is quite expensive. The use of 3D radio imaging is one of the leading sensor technology trends that you need to watch out for. It can be used to identify people or objects inside a building at a reasonably affordable price. Unlike CCTV cameras, it can also see through walls.

4. Energy Harvesting Technology

Since the beginning of humankind, we have always been looking for ways on how to harvest energy. However, thanks to sensor technology, harvesting energy has been made possible. Did you know that you can install a magnetic device on your shoes or backpack and have it collect energy during motion? This energy can then be used to charge your phone.

5. Advancement in Fitness and Health Wearables

If there is an industry that has benefited from sensor technology is health and fitness. As of today, there are a lot of sensor applications that can be used to measure heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar, and much more. Towards the end of 2019, we can expect further advancements in fitness and Health Wearables. For instance, a group of developers under SCIO have come up with a sensor that measures food nutrients.

6. Gas and Smoke Sensors in the Commercial Industry

These are perhaps the most common trend in sensor technology. However, most of us can bear witness that gas and smoke sensors in the past were not 100 % reliable. Fire outbreaks and gas leaks have occurred in premises which had both gas and smoke sensors. But, recent advancements have led to significant improvements. There has emerged a trend in commercial businesses where, in case of a fire, the smoke sensors automatically sends a command to a ventilation system that draws oxygen from the premises.

The Bottom Line

It is safe to say that the potential for sensor technology is unlimited. As advancements are being made in the field, we can expect to see better applications implemented in industrial equipment and day to day life.

Bailey Hudson (SummitMT.com)

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