Smart Sensors in Demand for Improved Industrial Operations
Smart sensors capability to have more intelligence built into them continues to drive their application in automotive, aerospace and defense, industrial, medical, and – most recently – homeland security applications. This, along with their ability to provide real-time measurement of the complex phenomena (such as assessing the clearance of a turbine blade tip and casing in an aircraft engine or the formation of a weld seam by a robotic welding machine) increases their utility, making them an attractive investment. Proprietary algorithms customized for specific applications analyze sensor data on key parameters to optimize machining, processing, and other operations to speed up throughput, reduce maintenance, minimize scrap, and improve the overall product or process quality.
This Frost & Sullivan research is an impact assessment of smart sensor technologies that are commercially available or still in the development phase. The study evaluates these applications that can take processing, manufacturing, and machine functions to the next level of competence.
Lucrative Market for Intelligent Sensors in HVAC Segment
Manufacturers in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and semiconductor industries require heating/ventilation/air-conditioning (HVAC) systems to maintain the sanitary conditions of the laboratories that develop their advanced technology products. These closely monitored HVAC systems also need to comply with government regulations. Processors prefer to install HVAC control systems that incorporate smart sensors measuring key parameters in real time and transmitting the information to the control system that can optimize the clean room climate.
"A number of pharmaceuticals, biotech, and semiconductor makers are installing the Rosemount 951 Dry Gas Transmitter developed by Emerson Process Management of Chanhassen, (MN)", notes the analyst of this research. This smart sensor not only improves their HVAC validation processes but also provides stability of 0.125% of the upper range limit (URL) per year, which boosts the bottom line by extending calibration cycles and reducing overall maintenance costs.
Homeland Security Offers a Profitable Market for Smart Sensors
"Security sensors and devices have become of prime importance and are now commonly found in a variety of applications, from securing a luggage case or a nuclear plant", says the analyst. Smart sensor developers are now adapting their products to offer counter-terror capabilities. For instance, wireless communications vendors that design instruments to track cargo are integrating radiation detection sensors into their products that are expected to instantly detect any illicit radioactive material being smuggled in a container and immediately alert the authorities.
Smart sensor research and development is largely an international effort. Though companies and institutions in the United States lead the way, their overseas counterparts are also successfully designing and marketing smart sensors that run the gamut of commercial and government applications. These include technologically advanced European countries such as the United Kingdom and Italy, as well as leading Asian nations significantly Singapore and Taiwan, chiefly due to national initiatives in high technology development. | 
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