International Conference on Sensing Technology

What's shaping the future of wireless networking technology? Cloud-managed Wi-Fi, radio spectrum expansion and the hybrid workplace are some of the converging developments that are modernizing wireless networks. The network-connected world is constantly evolving for businesses of all types. Sometimes, networking vendors push new technologies, but world events, like the COVID-19 pandemic, also shape how networking professionals do their jobs. It's an interesting time now as several factors intersect to influence what comes next. In this article, we discuss network modernization from the perspective of Wi-Fi in the enterprise setting -- even as the enterprise itself is redefined. WLAN models in flux Most wireless LAN vendors that didn't start out cloud-centric are now headed that way, with the notion of the WLAN controller as a requirement becoming less desired. Controllers helped to propel WLAN into the centrally managed large scale, but they also introduced their share of ...

Robotics Applications in Manufacturing and the Sensors Used for Maximum Efficiency Robotics is changing the game in manufacturing, making tasks faster and more accurate. Loaded with smart sensors and algorithms, robots can now do complex and risky jobs without getting tired. They also work well alongside people, boosting workplace efficiency. Although robots have been in the industry for a long time, they have become much more popular recently. A report from Stanford shows that around 3.4 million robots are now working in factories around the world. Let's step back and explore how robotics has evolved in manufacturing. Robotics Applications in Manufacturing One of the significant benefits of robotics in manufacturing is that it has replaced traditional, high-volume, repetitive processes with efficient automated solutions. Incorporating industrial robots on the factory floor can reduce the need for human intervention, thus decreasing warehousing costs considerably. Autonomous ind...

Power electronics MOSFETs for energy storage, battery chargers, and power supplies introduced by Littelfuse 200-volt MOSFETs deliver low on-state resistances, and offer two times higher current ratings, and reduce RDS(on) values by as much as 63 percent. CHICAGO – Littelfuse Inc. in Chicago is introducing the IXTN400N20X4 and IXTN500N20X4 ultra junction X4-class power metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) for power electronics applications where minimal on-state losses are crucial. The devices offer high current ratings that enable designers to replace several low-current devices connected in parallel. The screw-mounted terminals enable rugged and stable mounting. These 200-volt MOSFETs deliver low on-state resistances, and offer as much as two times higher current ratings, and reduce RDS(on) values by as much as 63 percent. Related: Upgraded ceramic MOSFET power electronics devices for energy storage and inverters introduced by Infineon The MOSFETs are low-volta...

Researchers use computer vision for early detection of autism The research is currently using records of 100 children diagnosed with ASD and 40 children without ASD as a comparative group. | Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto The researchers from the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIITB), along with the Centre for Advanced Research and Excellence in Autism and Developmental Disorders, St. John’s Hospital, are currently running a study that aims to help in the early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) via computer vision. The study was showcased at the Bengaluru Tech Summit held between November 19–21. Through the project, the researchers aim to detect ASD automatically in children in the age group of 18 to 42 months by analysing their behaviour. “Early detection of ASD is more challenging. Some key aspects are different in the Indian context when compared to similar work done in the Western world. That is why we designed a new play protocol whi...

Pushing Optical Limits: Metasurfaces Achieve Near Infinite Light Control in a Single Device Schematics of multiplexing metadevices based on coherent wave interferences. Credit: OEA A recent paper explores the multiplexing of infinite functionalities using a single metasurface, leveraging coherent wave interference. With advancements in optical sciences and applications, there is a growing demand for multifunctional optical devices capable of integrating as many wave-control functionalities as possible into a single, ultra-compact system. However, optical devices made from conventional dielectrics rely on the propagation phases of light, which inherently results in bulky device sizes (relative to wavelengths) and/or low efficiencies (due to the absence of magnetic responses). Furthermore, the lack of additional degrees of freedom to manipulate light makes it challenging to use conventional dielectrics to create compact optical devices with multiple functionalities—an issue that signifi...

Smart contact lenses show promise for wireless glaucoma detection A team of Chinese researchers have been working on a way to continuously and more comfortably detect these tiny fluctuations in pressure, such as contact lenses that transmit signals to receptor glasses. Often, patients with early-stage glaucoma don’t know they have it, even though early treatment is key to reducing vision loss. While detecting a subtle increase in eye pressure helps ophthalmologists diagnose glaucoma, it can be challenging to monitor continuously, especially with the variety of temperatures eyes experience. A team of researchers reported in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces the development of a prototype “smart” contact lens that measures eye pressure accurately, regardless of temperature.1 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 3 million people in the US have glaucoma.2 Currently, ophthalmologists and optometrists use air puff tests during eye examinations to get 1-tim...

  Bionic Sensor: Overview and Description A bionic sensor is an advanced device that mimics biological systems to detect and process environmental stimuli such as light, sound, pressure, or chemical signals. These sensors integrate principles from biology and engineering, often leveraging cutting-edge materials and techniques like bio-inspired designs, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence. Bio-Inspired Design: Bionic sensors replicate the sensory capabilities of living organisms, such as human touch (haptics), smell (olfaction), vision, or hearing, to achieve high sensitivity and specificity. Advanced Materials: These sensors frequently use innovative materials such as biocompatible polymers, graphene, and nanomaterials to improve performance and integration with biological systems. Multifunctionality: Many bionic sensors can simultaneously detect multiple stimuli (e.g., temperature, pressure, and motion) and provide real-time feedback. Artificial Intelligence Integration: A...

Sensors made from ‘frozen smoke’ can detect toxic formaldehyde in homes and offices Researchers have developed a sensor made from ‘frozen smoke’ that uses artificial intelligence techniques to detect formaldehyde in real time at concentrations as low as eight parts per billion, far beyond the sensitivity of most indoor air quality sensors. The researchers, from the University of Cambridge, developed sensors made from highly porous materials known as aerogels. By precisely engineering the shape of the holes in the aerogels, the sensors were able to detect the fingerprint of formaldehyde, a common indoor air pollutant, at room temperature. The proof-of-concept sensors, which require minimal power, could be adapted to detect a wide range of hazardous gases, and could also be miniaturised for wearable and healthcare applications. The results are reported in the journal Science Advances. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a major source of indoor air pollution, causing watery eyes, burn...

Sensors that Operate at High Temperatures and in Extreme Environments Close-up photo of the new piezoelectric sensor developed by University of Houston researchers. It can potentially work in extreme environments.  Extreme environments in several critical industries — aerospace, energy, transportation, and defense — require sensors to measure and monitor numerous factors under harsh conditions to ensure human safety and the integrity of mechanical systems. In the petrochemical industry, for example, pipeline pressures must be monitored at climates ranging from hot desert heat to near arctic cold. Various nuclear reactors operate at a range of 300-1000 °C, while deep geothermal wells hold temperatures up to 600 °C. A team of University of Houston researchers has developed a new sensor that was proven to work in temperatures as high as 900 °C (1,650 °F), which is the temperature of mafic volcanic lava, the hottest type of lava on Earth. “Highly sensitive, reliable and durable sensors...

Electronic waste (e-waste) E-waste is one of the fastest growing solid waste streams in the world (1). In 2022, an estimated 62 million tonnes of e-waste were produced globally. Only 22.3% was documented as formally collected and recycled (2). Lead is a common substance released into the environment when e-waste is recycled, stored or dumped using informal activities, including open burning, (3). Informal e-waste recycling activities may have several adverse health effects. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable. ILO and WHO estimate that millions of women and child labourers working in the informal recycling sector globally may be at risk of hazardous e-waste exposures (4,5). Overview Every year millions of electrical and electronic devices are discarded as products break or become obsolete and are thrown away. These discarded devices are considered e-waste and can become a threat to health and the environment if they are not disposed of and recycled appropriately. C...

The transformative power of AR, VR in architectural design Highlights The architectural landscape is undergoing a profound transformation thanks to the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies. The architectural landscape is undergoing a profound transformation thanks to the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies. These tools, which have reshaped industries from gaming to healthcare, are now becoming essential in architectural design, revolutionizing how architects visualize, design, and present their work. As the demand for more immersive, efficient, and collaborative design processes grows, AR and VR are driving innovations that enhance both the creative and practical aspects of architecture. AR and VR provide architects with a dynamic medium to explore their designs in ways that were previously impossible. Gone are the days of relying solely on 2D plans and models to communicate ideas. With VR, architects can n...

Must-Know AI Models for Image Recognition Image recognition has become an inseparable part of many industries like healthcare and autonomous vehicles. This technology's core mainly revolves around more complex AI models for image recognition. Such models enable machines to locate, classify, and understand visual information with almost perfect accuracy. Let’s, dive into the top models that transformed image recognition from neural networks to the latest developments-including Vision Transformers. How AI Powers Image Recognition The core of image recognition is the machines' ability to "see" in almost the same way as a human. Artificial intelligence, in particular deep learning, has progressed leaps and bounds into this area. They first use algorithms and start using the methods that allow for the "reading" and breaking down of images into various features, such that immense quantities of data are learned to recognize patterns. Deep learning is at the heart ...