Sensor technologies of the future

Abstract

It is widely accepted that sensors form a vital and necessary part of any measurement and control system and there have been many predictions concerning the demand for such devices. The author discusses the present situation with regard to those technologies which are considered likely to play a major role in the sensors of the future. Four main sensor technologies are identified; namely those based upon resonator or variable frequency techniques, optics and optoelectronics, microelectrons or solid state techniques and integrated or 'smart' systems. Examples are presented to illustrate the advantages presented by each of these technologies and observations are made about their particular aspects and sensor configurations which are likely to see early exploitation.