Sensors
Articles tagged with Sensors
Smarter sensors save time and energy
New fiber-optic sensing method reads strain and displacement through electrical signals
The hidden structure behind a widely used class of materials
A team of researchers from MIT has directly characterized the three-dimensional atomic structure of a relaxor ferroelectric for the first time. This breakthrough provides a framework for refining models used to design next-generation computing, energy, and sensing devices.
Enabling privacy-preserving AI training on everyday devices
Researchers at MIT developed a technique to overcome memory constraints and communication bottlenecks in federated learning, enabling faster and more accurate AI model training. The new framework, FTTE, uses a subset of model parameters and an asynchronous approach to reduce lag time and improve training performance.
Molecular quantum nanosensors reveal temperature and radical signals inside living cells
Researchers developed biocompatible molecular quantum nanosensors that operate inside living cells, enabling absolute temperature measurements with subcellular spatial resolution. The sensors also detect radical-related spin signals in the cytoplasm and nucleus of cancer cells.,
Brazilian innovation prevents brain injuries in critically ill ICU patients
A study in Brazil found that analyzing intracranial compliance using developed technology reduced mortality and neurological damage. The device uses a non-invasive sensor to monitor cerebral dynamics and intracranial pressure, allowing for early intervention before brain damage occurs.
How AI can help us count the ‘good’ viruses used in biopharmaceuticals
Researchers developed an AI-powered methodology to identify and count target viruses more efficiently than previous techniques. The new approach uses electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and machine learning to separate signals from noise, enabling quick and accurate readings across a wide range of titers.
From air to tea: new sensor reveals invisible pollution in minutes
A new measurement technique using nanomembranes and infrared light detects tiny amounts of substances in minutes, reducing sampling time by 100-fold. The technology analyzes particles accumulating on a tiny membrane, heating it up when certain wavelengths are absorbed.
USC-led team receives funding to build next-generation medical device that uses tears to monitor health
A USC-led team is working on a medical device that uses tears to monitor health, starting with dry eye disease. The device aims to provide continuous monitoring and automated medication delivery, improving patient comfort and treatment efficacy.
Biosensor identifies pancreatic cancer in early stages
Researchers developed an electrochemical sensor to detect pancreatic cancer at low concentrations, improving accessibility and effectiveness of treatment. The device identifies CA19-9 protein, a key biomarker for the disease, allowing for early diagnosis and potentially increasing survival rates.
Smart implants at Hannover Messe: How robotic micro-actuators are enhancing bone healing
Researchers at Saarland University are developing smart implants that can continuously monitor and visualize the healing process of fractures. These customized implants can dynamically adapt to the healing process by becoming stiffer or more compliant as required, promoting bone regeneration through micromechanical stimulation.
A quartz sensor that detects single particles
Researchers have developed a new method to detect single micro/nanoparticles and protein binding events using non-linear resonance in a commercial quartz crystal microbalance. The system achieves femtogram-level sensitivity without requiring surface functionalization or nanomaterial integration.
New material makes heart monitoring tech more comfortable
Researchers created a new polymer electrode that conforms to the skin, is comfortable, and can pick up ECG signals without gel or adhesives. The technology performed comparably to existing sensors in proof-of-concept testing, showcasing its potential for practical and cost-effective health monitoring applications.
Bioinspired auxetic metastructures enable biomechanically adaptive, machine learning‑enhanced self‑powered sensing with ultrahigh efficiency
Researchers developed bioinspired auxetic triboelectric nanogenerators that resolve mechanical mismatch challenges in flexible sensors. The devices achieve high energy conversion efficiencies and conform to biological tissues with minimal energy loss.
Millimeter-scale resolution in fiber-optic sensing: single-ended technique advances infrastructure monitoring
Researchers develop signal-processing method to suppress distortions, achieving 6mm spatial resolution in single-ended Brillouin sensing. This enables early detection of damage or abnormal conditions in aging infrastructure.
“No pumps, no batteries needed”: DGIST develops wearable semiconductor fabric that monitors health through sweat
A research team at DGIST has developed a wearable sweat sensor using semiconductor fibers that can collect and analyze sweat automatically. The sensor detects various biosignals, including electrolytes and metabolites, without the need for external power sources.
Hannover Messe: Thin polymer films – the material behind a new generation of pumps
Researchers at Saarland University have developed a new class of miniature actuators using ultrathin silicone film-based pumps. The pumps can operate without motors, compressed air, or lubricants and can be switched on and off as needed.
Energy-efficient cooling elements from a 3D printer: Elastocaloric cooling systems at Hannover Messe
Researchers at Saarland University have developed energy-efficient geometries for elastocaloric cooling elements using 3D printing. The technology uses shape-memory alloys to release heat when stretched and absorb it when released, promising a cleaner alternative to traditional cooling methods.
Achieving wafer-scale growth of 2D magnetic materials
Researchers at Indian Institute of Science have devised a method to grow high-quality 2D magnetic materials over centimetre-scale wafers, paving the way for their integration into next-generation electronics. The technique uses Physical Vapour Transport Deposition and enables scalable fabrication with minimal surface roughness.
Multitasking quantum sensors can measure several properties at once
Researchers at MIT have developed a way to measure multiple physical quantities with solid-state quantum sensors, exploiting entanglement to overcome signal mixing. This approach enables deeper understanding of the behavior of atoms and electrons in materials and living systems, such as cancer cells.
Registrations open for São Paulo School of Advanced Science in Electrochemistry
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Electrochemistry aims to strengthen proficiency in advanced techniques for next-gen batteries, catalytic interfaces & sensors. Participants will engage with renowned researchers & benefit from computational tools & instrumentation.
AI tracks motor heat in real time – enabling more efficient electric drives without extra sensors
A research team at Saarland University has developed an AI-assisted method to determine temperature distribution inside a running electric motor in real time, without additional hardware. The system uses motor-condition data extracted from electromagnetic fields and can detect thermal overload and optimize power regulation.
Hannover Messe: Electronic switches made from smart polymer films – a first step towards flexible circuit boards
Scientists develop a new generation of energy-efficient transistors made from thin, lightweight electrically conducting films. The film-based switch can control the flow of electric current with high precision, enabling complex motion sequences or fixed positions.
Smart stent sleeve spots kidney pressure early
A wireless ureteral stent sleeve, UroSleeve, tracks intrarenal pressure through resonance shifts, detecting pressure changes linked to hydronephrosis in an ex vivo porcine kidney model. The system could enable continuous remote follow-up and reduce dependence on episodic radiographic imaging.
New sensors lower the cost of studying genetic disorders
Researchers developed a new sensor called CAMEO to monitor electrical activity in human cerebral organoids, facilitating research into neurodevelopment and genetic disorders. The device is made of carbon nanotube strands, enabling low-cost and scalable monitoring.
MIT researchers measure traffic emissions, to the block, in real-time
A new study by MIT researchers provides a high-resolution picture of auto emissions in NYC, allowing for more effective transportation and decarbonization policies. The method produces detailed data that bridges the gap between citywide emissions inventories and individual vehicle analyses.
Soft sensor gives robots a better sense of touch
A new soft sensing system allows humanoid robots to perceive complex finger posture in real time, enabling precise movement and dexterous manipulation. The system features an omnidirectional bending sensor that tracks pitch and yaw at the finger joints, providing stability and repeatability for demanding actions.
A tiny sensor that reads creatinine in seconds
Researchers have developed a compact chemiresistive biosensor that directly transduces biochemical reactions into electrical signals, detecting creatinine concentrations from 1 to 300 mg/dL with high sensitivity and selectivity. The sensor's two-electrode design eliminates the need for reference electrodes and operates in just 35 seconds.
Towards smarter agriculture: Durable nanofilm electrodes for monitoring leaf health
Researchers developed durable nanofilm electrodes for long-term measurement of bioelectric potentials in plants, paving the way for more resilient agriculture. These electrodes can detect stress in crops early, enabling timely warnings and improving yields.
Robots can’t feel; these sensors could change that
Researchers have developed a highly sensitive electronic 'skin' using tiny devices that can measure force applied over an area. This technology has the potential to improve prosthetic limbs and robotic manipulation, allowing robots to accurately track hand movements and grasp delicate objects.
Scientists developed room-temperature, zero-power infrared sensor for next-generation night vision
Scientists created a room-temperature, zero-power infrared sensor with high sensitivity and fast response time. The device uses a novel asymmetric electrode structure to separate generated electrical charges, enabling clear images without external power.
Quantum sensors on the move
Researchers at IISc created a method to precisely steer quantum sensors through living cells, overcame challenges like viscous drag and brownian motion. This breakthrough enables real-time measurement of parameters such as local viscosity and temperature inside cells.
Tiny sensors with the power to detect cancer
Researchers have developed tiny sensors capable of detecting multiple biomarkers simultaneously, including temperature and chemical changes. These sensors have the potential to revolutionize cancer diagnosis and monitoring by providing reliable and clear information about disease presence in a minimally invasive way.
Biosensor detects early fungal outbreaks, advances plant biotechnology
A new biosensor developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory detects emerging fungal presence on plants at the molecular level, enabling rapid response to crop threats. The sensor identifies fungal outbreaks in near-real time, allowing for faster treatment and study of plant-microbe interactions.
PolyU research unveils mechanoelectrical perception in sea urchin spines, empowering next-generation biomimetic sensors
A research team led by Prof. Wang Zuankai has discovered the mechanism behind mechanoelectrical perception in sea urchin spines, which allows them to detect water flow instantly. The team has developed a bionic metamaterial sensor using gradient porous structure and 3D printing, holding promise for sensing technology breakthroughs.
A new interdisciplinary journal - Advanced Scientific Instruments – has launched its inaugural issue
The journal focuses on advancing scientific understanding and expanding engineering horizons through rigorous peer-reviewed, open-access research. ASI aims to be the preeminent hub for pioneering next-generation scientific tools and fostering global collaboration.
Generative AI improves a wireless vision system that sees through obstructions
Researchers at MIT have developed a new technique using generative artificial intelligence models to overcome the precision bottleneck in wireless vision systems. The method produces more accurate shape reconstructions, which could improve robots' ability to grasp and manipulate objects blocked from view.
Concrete sensor manufacturer Wavelogix receives $500,000 grant from National Science Foundation
Wavelogix, a concrete sensor manufacturer, has received a $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to refine and scale its Rebel concrete strength sensing system. The system enables faster, data-driven decisions through real-time concrete strength monitoring.
Eye-inspired artificial skin lets robots feel before they touch
The new dynamic shielding layer allows the sensor to focus on specific areas when needed, achieving a 104.56% increase in detection depth. The sensor can also detect approaching objects from over 90mm away, providing a vital split-second for robots to avoid collisions.
Listening to the body’s quietest, yet most dynamic movements
Researchers developed a wearable vibration sensor capable of detecting subtle body movements without external power, opening new possibilities for healthcare technologies. The sensor accurately captures physiological signals and detects extremely faint vibrations across a broad frequency range.
A hair-thin fiber can read the chemistry of a single drop of body fluid
Researchers developed a sensor that can detect the chemistry of a single drop of body fluid using a hair-thin optical fiber probe. The device measures electrical conductivity through an optical signal, allowing for stable and real-time measurements in small volumes.
SwRI develops magnetostrictive probe for safer, more cost-effective storage tank inspections
The SwRI MST 8x8 probe uses guided-wave technology to detect corrosion in storage tanks with exceptional accuracy. It reduces expensive downtime by allowing inspections without emptying the tank, improving inspection safety in hazardous spaces.
Extra ‘set of eyes’ for self-driving cars: Roadside radar sensors could reduce blind spots
Roadside radar sensors like EyeDAR enhance automotive radar systems by capturing reflections from obstacles, reducing blind spots and improving sensing accuracy. This technology has potential applications in robots, drones, and wearable platforms, complementing artificial intelligence with analog design.
FAU Harbor Branch awarded $900,000 for Gulf of America sea-level research
The FAU project will integrate high-resolution modeling, observational data, and advanced machine learning to improve understanding of regional sea-level variability in the Gulf of America. The team aims to produce decision-relevant scenario outputs and empower stakeholders with actionable information for future-oriented decisions.
Your car’s tire sensors could be used to track you
Researchers at IMDEA Networks Institute discovered that tire pressure sensors in modern cars can be used to track vehicles and infer movement patterns. The study highlights the need for stronger security measures in future vehicle sensor systems.
Microalgae-derived biochar enables fast, low-cost detection of hydrogen peroxide
Researchers developed a nickel-enriched biochar from marine microalgae that can detect hydrogen peroxide at low concentrations, with fast response times. The sensor's stability and sensitivity are improved by the uniform distribution of catalytic sites.
AI-boosted electronic nose detects ovarian cancer
Researchers at Linköping University have developed an AI-boosted electronic nose that can detect ovarian cancer from blood plasma samples with high accuracy. The method uses machine learning to identify patterns specific to the disease, making it a promising tool for early detection and improved survival rates.
Chip-processing method could assist cryptography schemes to keep data secure
MIT engineers developed a manufacturing method that enables secure, fingerprint-based authentication on CMOS chips, eliminating the need for external secret storage. This technique uses shared fingerprints between two chips, improving privacy and energy efficiency in power-constrained electronic systems.
Novel wireless origami-inspired smart cushioning device for safer logistics
A novel wireless origami-inspired smart cushioning device has been developed to monitor deformation and detect damage to transported goods. The self-folded origami honeycomb device, integrated with passive wireless sensors, can provide real-time information on load conditions and impact.
Jeonbuk National University researchers explore metal oxide electrodes as a new frontier in electrochemical microplastic detection
Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a new method for detecting microplastics using metal oxide electrodes, offering a rapid and sensitive solution for environmental monitoring. The technology has the potential to replace traditional spectroscopic methods with its portability, low cost, and real-time capabilities.
How can you rescue a “kidnapped” robot? A new AI system helps the robot regain its sense of location in dynamic, ever-changing environments
A hierarchical 3D LiDAR localization method improves robot positioning in large outdoor spaces even after seasonal changes. The method integrates deep learning techniques to extract discriminative local features from 3D point clouds, making it robust to environmental variability.
How the human exposome will unlock better health and medicine:
The Global Exposome Forum is a global initiative that aims to understand the complex interplay between biological, chemical, and environmental exposures and human health. The project has partnered with national governments, scientific institutions, and large membership-led organizations to advance exposomics science.
From sweat to signal: A wearable optical system for glucose detection
A portable optical system detects glucose in human sweat with high sensitivity and selectivity, suitable for real-world daily glucose monitoring. The system uses nanostructured plasmonic materials and molecular recognition chemistry to achieve reliable detection without enzymes or fluorescent labels.
Innovative system measures the state of lake ecosystems
Researchers developed a holistic monitoring system to investigate lake ecosystems' sensitivity to boat traffic, weather, and climate change. The system, WAMOS, accurately analyzes wave patterns and assigns causes, enabling precise modeling of ecosystem effects.
Robots that can see around corners using radio signals and AI
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed HoloRadar, a system that enables robots to reconstruct hidden 3D spaces beyond their line of sight using radio waves processed by AI. This capability can improve safety and performance in driverless cars and cluttered indoor settings.
Drones with low-cost air quality sensors can improve air quality monitoring
A drone equipped with low-cost air quality sensors has revealed unexpectedly high concentrations of particulate matter at around 100 meters above ground level in Delhi. The findings suggest that current model simulations underestimate PM2.5 mass concentrations during morning haze episodes, highlighting the need for better mitigation st...
New biosensor technology could improve glucose monitoring
Researchers at Washington State University developed a wearable biosensor that measures sugar levels in the fluid around cells using microneedles and sensors. The sensor is more sensitive, smaller, and painless than current models, making it a potential game-changer for diabetes patients.
MAPPI: a new system to learn how a plant's leaves, stem and roots mutually communicate under environmental stress
Researchers developed MAPPI, a system that enables real-time visualization of how a plant's leaves, stem, and roots communicate with each other in response to environmental stress. The system reveals bi-directional communication between leaves and roots, overcoming limitations of traditional microscopy.
Upcycling genes: New platform breathes life into underperforming genetic parts
A research team has developed a 'SUPER' platform that utilizes synthetic small RNAs as add-on controllers for genetic switches. This technology enhances the performance and stability of gene regulatory devices by addressing the issue of 'leakage', where genes continue to express at low levels even in the 'OFF' state.