US researchers develop new flexible “band-aid†sensors
Traditional "intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance" (ISR) Sensors have long relied on bulky antennas and large, fixed installations. However, researchers from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and Harvard University are now working to miniaturize these systems, aiming to develop compact, band-aid-sized sensors that could revolutionize the field. This advancement opens up new possibilities for sensor applications in both military and civilian contexts. What else is shaping the future of the sensor industry today?
US Researchers Develop Flexible "Band-Aid" Sensors
For years, traditional ISR sensors have been limited by their size and rigidity. Now, a breakthrough in flexible sensor technology is changing the game. Scientists at AFRL and Harvard’s Weiss Bio-Inspired Engineering Institute are developing ultra-thin, wearable sensors that can be applied like a bandage. These sensors are not only small but also highly adaptable, offering new ways to monitor environments, people, and even biological functions.
The development of these sensors involves a technique called "Mixed 3D Printing," which combines additive manufacturing with flexible conductive ink and a stretchable substrate. This allows electronic components to be printed directly onto a soft, pliable material, making them ideal for use in wearable or embedded systems.
While the cost of such sensors may be lower than traditional models, the real impact lies in their ability to overcome the limitations of conventional designs. By significantly reducing weight and increasing flexibility, these sensors could enable next-generation ISR systems that are more versatile and efficient. The research has been published in Advanced Materials, and the team is now working toward real-world deployment.
Why Use 3D Printers to Manufacture Sensors?
In recent years, a new class of sensors has emerged—ones that are born from 3D printing. Though still niche, these sensors are gaining attention as more engineers explore the potential of this technology. 3D printing offers advantages such as cost-effectiveness, speed, environmental friendliness, and the ability to create customized designs. As a result, it's becoming an attractive tool for sensor production.
Is this just a trend driven by 3D printing hype? Not entirely. The technology itself brings unique benefits that make it well-suited for creating complex, high-performance sensors. From rapid prototyping to mass customization, 3D printing is helping to reshape how sensors are designed and manufactured.
Dji Mavic Pro 2 Camera to Feature a 1-Inch Sensor
According to reports from Canon Rumors, Dji is set to release the Mavic Pro 2 in March. One of the key upgrades will be a larger camera sensor—likely a 1-inch model paired with a 28mm lens. This improvement is expected to enhance image quality and low-light performance, making the drone more appealing for professional photography and videography.
Alongside the upgraded camera, the new model will feature a 4820 mAh battery, extending flight time to 35 minutes. It will also include a rear-facing binocular vision sensor, improving obstacle avoidance and navigation capabilities.
MEMS Sensors Combined with Wireless Tech for Building Monitoring
A Japanese construction company, Dacheng, has partnered with Yokogawa, Nagano Japan Wireless, and the University of Tokyo to develop a building structure monitoring system. This system uses high-precision MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) sensors combined with wireless communication in the 920 MHz band to provide long-term structural health monitoring.
The system includes vibration sensors with a resolution of 1 mgal and strain sensors with a resolution of 1 nm, allowing for precise detection of minute deformations and movements over extended periods. This technology improves maintenance efficiency and enhances safety in critical infrastructure.
Toyota Recalls Over 180,000 Vehicles Due to Sensor Issues
In early 2018, GAC Toyota and FAW Toyota announced a recall of 181,797 vehicles due to faulty airbag sensors. The issue involved a batch of acceleration sensors with IC chips that might fail during use, causing the airbag warning light to activate and potentially preventing the airbags from deploying in an accident.
To address the problem, the companies will inspect and replace the affected sensors free of charge. This recall highlights the importance of reliable sensor technology in automotive safety systems.
Wearables Get Smarter with Quasi-Wireless and Sensing Tech
Sensors are a crucial component in wearable devices, enabling features like heart rate monitoring, temperature sensing, and motion tracking. As technology advances, wearables are becoming more sophisticated, integrating multiple sensors to detect specific health conditions and vital signs.
For example, a combination of increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and irregular breathing could signal a serious medical condition like cerebral hemorrhage. With more advanced sensor integration, wearables are becoming powerful tools for personal health monitoring and early diagnosis.
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