Updated May 30, 2023
What is Smart Sensor?
Smart sensor detects physical occurrence, translate them into another form (often electronic impulse), and process the obtained data. This function relieves the external or programmable logic controller (PLC) of processing sensor output.
Instead, it frees the central controller to concentrate on system-level responsibilities like process automation and analytics. This contrasts typical sensors, which solely translate physical phenomena into numerical values and communicate them to a central controller.
In a challenging environment, for example, the internal mechanism of a smart sensor can prevent erroneous detection. Their output signal strength and threshold automatically alter based on the environment. This differs from the typical sensor, in which the primary controller deals with this issue.
How do they Work?
Sensors gather information from specific settings and convert it into countable electrical impulses. Temperature, speed, mass, force(pressure), and the presence of heat bodies like humans are examples of these attributes.
A microprocessor then processes the electrical impulses to generate outputs corresponding to a set of actions. Finally, the system communicates the output with receivers in the designated devices to ensure proper operation.
A system may employ numerous sensors of varying capabilities depending on the functional complexities and rising feature needs. It may include more power sources, transmitters, receivers, and so on to achieve better outputs.
Types of Smart Sensors
#1 Motion Sensors
When people enter or leave a space, motion sensors identify their presence. When they detect motion, the sensors send signals to raise or reduce the power supply to light fixtures.
As a result, it automatically switches ON and OFF lights and other in-house tools based on the vacancy or occupancy of the allocated space. They can significantly reduce energy use in commercial applications that deal with more significant regions and people.
#2 Smoke Sensors
Smoke sensors safeguard the safety of a home or structure by providing rapid notifications and triggering alarms at the time of a fire. As a result, they significantly increase the likelihood of escaping from accidental situations.
#3 Light Sensors
The primary function of light sensors is to adjust the light according to the time of day, month, or year. It automates the operation of luminaires in smart buildings while also enabling human-centric lighting, daylight harvesting, and light scheduling for energy savings, efficiency, and ambiance.
#4 Thermal Sensors
Smart buildings and offices require thermal sensors to automate room temperature. They keep a steady interior temperature regardless of the outside temperature. These sensors also conserve energy by adjusting the temperature to match the weather.
#5 Wind Sensors
Smart buildings must respond to nature intelligently. Wind sensors automatically close dust skirts, storm shutters, or retractable awnings when they detect heavy gusts.
#6 Proximity Sensors
We use a proximity sensor to detect the location of a person or object concerning the sensor. Proximity sensors in retail contexts can detect consumer movements across the store.
Widespread Applications of Smart Sensor
1. Manufacturing and Warehouse: Smart sensors assist industrial companies in boosting staff well-being and profit-generating process workflows. The sensors generate numerous types of important information, such as,
- Decision-making based on historical data
- Maintenance and repair alerts and reminders
- Automation of lighting to ensure active environments
- Enhanced space utilization
2. Hospitality: Sensors created for smart hotels reduce costs, increase income, and significantly improve visitor experiences. In addition to automating temperature controls and light settings, thermostats and occupancy sensors enable smart energy management that uses energy efficiently. Let’s look at some additional advantages of sensors in the hotel business.
- Automated guest encounters
- We use guest data to create personalized experiences.
- Self-check-in/check-out and automated room entry are available.
- Room service notifications via push notifications
3. Home Automation: There is now, or soon will be, a sensor for every home function. Sensors are the foundation of home automation, directing smart devices on when and how to perform.
- Device activation through automation
- Temperature and illumination adjustments
- Routine schedules that have been pre-programmed
- Detection of theft and unauthorized access
4. Workplace: Sensor-based technology transforms how people connect and collaborate in today’s workplaces. Smart sensors power this transition, providing increased productivity and performance. The list goes on and on!
- Human-centered smart lighting
- HVAC systems that are smart for automated climate control
- Data on intelligent conference rooms and occupancy
- Indoor navigation and wayfinding
Takeaway
A smart sensor is similar to a regular sensor, except it has communication and data handling capabilities. Smart sensors are becoming increasingly important in industrial automation because of their data handling and communication with other external devices, particularly in Industry 4.0. Smart sensors provide several advantages which lead to higher performance and better quality of the industrial process.
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