Sensors have played a significant role in a variety of industries over the years, but we’ve only realized a small amount of the potential they offer. As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to scale and big data plays an even more important role in sectors like healthcare, technology, manufacturing, aerospace, and agriculture, the expectation is that the sensor industry will continue to expand and improve.
To break it down simply, sensors are detectors that have the ability to measure some type of physical quality that is happening, such as motion or light, then convert mechanical motion into electrical signals one will be able to read. Sensors then relay information to another device or software program so that it can be decoded and interpreted. In the case of warning sensors, the sensor itself may emit a signal.
As sensors become more advanced and technologists find ways to implement them into different areas of business and life, sensors will continue to integrate themselves into our everyday activities to help mitigate risks, maximize opportunities, and transmit more information about the world around us.
The potential for sensor technology in our society is continually expanding so it is no surprise to note that sensors have thousands of possible applications. Here are just a few:
Water Level Sensors
In facilities where water leaks are highly probable, or where they could prove detrimental to the integrity of the business, water level sensors are quite common. This includes data centers, fisheries, nuclear facilities, rainwater harvesting plants, and production factories. In the past, water level sensors have been unreliable; however, with today’s advancements, water level sensor technology from companies like HSI Sensing contain no moving parts or mechanical floats that can break or rust.
Temperature Sensors
Temperature sensors have always had a role in a variety of applications and have become more routine and much more versatile over the years. Prior to the rapid advancement of IoT, temperature sensors were predominately used in A/C control, refrigerators, and similar devices used for environmental control. Its now commonplace to see temperature sensors insert themselves in manufacturing processes, agriculture, and the healthcare industry.
Proximity Sensors
One of the more interesting areas of sensor technology has to do with proximity sensors. These are sensors that detect the presence of nearby objects and then transmit data about these objects. Proximity sensors have traditionally been used in security settings, but are also finding a place in retail and food services – notifying businesses of shopping behaviors and trends.
Micro-Sensor Implants
One of the coolest and most intriguing developments is happening in the medical community, where micro-sensor implants are becoming a reality. While micro-sensors have long been used to relay information about temperatures, force, and pressure, there’s a lot of research and innovation being poured into sensors that can track the healing process for internal injuries and provide medical professionals with action-based data.
