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Developing sensor based application through embedded system platform,
- Sensors are like the backbone of IoT applications and products without them loT won't work.
- Sensors measure changes in physical parameters such as temperature, pressure, light intensity, humidity, etc., to transmit digital signals that can then be interpreted by a central processor or application software.
- Motion sensors for detecting movement;
- Environmental sensors for measuring ambient conditions like temperature;
- General purpose analog-to-digital converters that convert continuous values into usable data streams;
- Gas sensing technology to detect combustible gases and monitor air quality levels;
- Proximity detectors such as infrared distance monitors which trigger alarms when an object is too close/far away from another item etc.
In addition to these hardware elements, there are various cloud technologies enabling remote monitoring- for example,
- machine learning algorithms on connected devices allowing automated information processing based on sensor data inputs received remotely via the internet connection.
IoT or the Internet of Things is the newest trend that's been used for many products and appliances these days. While it's easy to dismiss it as the newest fad, IoT devices do have a huge potential to disrupt and revolutionize our lives and workflows and is indeed a technology that we need to pay attention to.
An IoT device is a physical object with sensors/actuators, processors, software and common communication ability that allows it to send and exchange information with other IoT devices, forming a collective network of smart systems.
These can then be used to set routines, reminders, and alerts and be used to completely automate current workflows effectively.
IoT devices can encompass many functions and features and can be broadly divided into based on what type of device it is - whether it is a
1. Sensor device - like temperature, humidity, pressure, light, distance
2. Actuator device - fans, blinds, motors, pumps, valves
3. Communication device - hubs for Zigbee, Z-wave, Matter, WiFi router, etc.
For this blog, we will primarily be focusing on Sensor devices and different classifications of sensors in loT, 15 types of sensors in IoT, and characteristics of sensors in IoT
What are Sensors?
Sensors are devices that provide an output signal based on measuring an environmental phenomenon such as measuring temperature, humidity, pressure, altitude, ambient light, distance etc.
These devices are used to give quantitative and qualitative measurements of an environmental factor for the purposes of monitoring data to either record or take action.
For example, a temperature sensor can be used to monitor the ambient temperature. Based on the temperature sensor's measurement and output, heating or cooling can be enabled to bring the ambient temperature of the room to the optimal temperature.
Sensors in IoT
Sensors have been around for decades being used in many different applications. But recently, with the advent of loT sensors, today must encompass the ability to process its data, and communicate with other sensors and platforms, forming a crucial part of the entire loT ecosystem.
Classification of Sensors in IoT
Due to the sheer number of sensors available, let's explore the diverse world of sensors as we delve into the classification of different types of sensors in IoT for simplification classification of sensors in IoT is divided into 5 core classifications depending on how they work.
1. Active and Passive Sensors.
2. Contact and Non-contact Sensors.
3. Absolute and relative sensors.
4. Analog and Digital Sensors.
5. Miscellaneous Sensors.
Sensors are now everywhere. Thanks to the smartphone revolution, a large range of sensors used in consumer electronics and also industrial applications have tumbled in price over the last decade. And with IoT’s ever-increasing presence in our day-to-day lives, they are now more prevalent than ever.
1. Temperature Sensors
In the past, IoT temperature sensors have been used for heat, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC), refrigerators, and other similar devices used for environmental control. However, the emergence of IoT has seen its role expand. Nowadays, you can find temperature sensors throughout industries such as manufacturing and agriculture.
2. Pressure Sensors
An IoT pressure sensor is any device that senses pressure and converts it into an electric signal. The level of voltage given out by the sensor depends on the level of pressure applied.
These sensors enable IoT systems that monitor systems and devices that are pressure propelled. If there’s any deviation from standard pressure ranges, the device notifies the administrator of the problem.
3. Accelerometers
An IoT accelerometer detects – or senses – an object’s acceleration. In other words, the rate of change of an object’s velocity with respect to time.
On top of acceleration, the accelerometer can also detect changes in gravity. Typical uses of accelerometers in IoT include smart pedometers and monitoring driving fleets. However, they’re present in millions of devices now, including smartphones.
They can also be used for anti-theft protection. Accelerometers alert the system they’re used in if an object that should be stationary moves.
4. Proximity Sensors
IoT proximity sensors provide non-contact detection of objects that are in close proximity to the sensor. They usually do this by emitting electromagnetic fields or beams of radiation such as infrared.
These are frequently found within the retail industry. This is because they can detect motion and the correlation between customers and the product they might be interested in. In turn, the user can be notified of any discount, special offers, or similar products located near the sensor.
Proximity sensors may also be found in parking lots of malls, stadiums, or airports to indicate available parking spots.
5. Humidity Sensors
IoT humidity sensors measure the amount of water vapor in the air. In scientific terms, they measure Relative Humidity (RH).
This kind of sensor is usually used in addition to IoT temperature sensors when a manufacturing process requires absolute perfect working conditions.
They’re usually found in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems – in both the home and business settings. However, they are also used by meteorological centers to report and predict the weather.
6. Image Sensors
IoT image sensors are used to convert images into electronic signals. These are then either displayed or become electronically stored files.
The most common use of image sensors is in digital cameras and IoT WiFi modules.
7. Level Sensors
Level sensors are used to detect the levels of certain types of objects. These include liquids, granular materials, and powders.
As you can imagine, this kind of sensor is useful and used in many different industries and applications. These include:
- Oil manufacturing
- Beverage manufacturing
- Food manufacturing
- Water treatment
8. Gas Sensors
Gas sensors monitor and detect changes in the air. These sensors are vital to our safety as they’re able to detect the presence of potentially harmful or even toxic gases.
Gas sensors are most commonly used within the mining, oil and gas, and chemical research. However, gas sensors are also prominent in most homes via carbon dioxide detectors.
9. Infrared Sensors
An Infrared Sensor – otherwise known as an IR sensor – scan and sense characteristics within their surroundings. They do this by either emitting or detecting infrared radiation. In addition, these IoT sensors are also able to measure the heat coming off of objects.
Infrared sensors can be adapted for several different IoT applications. However, their most common usage has been within the healthcare industry. For instance, infrared sensors can be used to monitor or blood flow or blood pressure.
10. Motion Detector Sensors
Not to be confused with proximity sensors, motion detector sensors are used to detect physical movement in a given area. In turn, this then sets off an electronic signal.
The most obvious use of this is within the security industry. Businesses use motion detector sensors in areas where there should be no movement. The sensor kicks in and alerts the systems administrator – or security guard – when there is any form of movement.
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