Sensor Technology

Sensor technology refers to the systems, devices, and methods used to detect, measure, and interpret physical, chemical, or environmental changes in real time. Sensors convert these changes into readable signals, typically electrical or digital, that can be processed by control systems, cloud platforms, or edge devices.

Sensors are critical enablers of automation, monitoring, and intelligent decision-making in industrial and digital environments. Each sensor type is designed to measure specific phenomena:

• Temperature sensors (e.g. thermocouples, RTDs)
• Pressure sensors (e.g. piezoresistive, capacitive)
• Motion and proximity sensors (e.g. accelerometers, infrared, ultrasonic)
• Optical and imaging sensors (e.g. LiDAR, CMOS)
• Chemical and gas sensors (e.g. electrochemical, NDIR)
• Humidity sensors, strain gauges, and biosensors

Sensors often work as part of broader Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) networks, communicating via protocols like MQTT, OPC UA, or Modbus. Their data feeds are typically used for predictive maintenance, process optimisation, real-time safety monitoring, or asset tracking.

Sensor technology is fundamental to:

• Industrial automation and robotics
• Condition monitoring and predictive maintenance
• Smart cities and buildings
• Healthcare devices and diagnostics
• Environmental monitoring and climate control
• Augmented and virtual reality systems

Advanced sensor ecosystems enable the creation of digital twins, allowing physical environments to be mirrored virtually with high precision.

See also: IoT, LiDAR, Predictive maintenance