The sensor is in the stage of development from the traditional type to the new type

In recent years, sensors are in the stage of transition from traditional to new sensors. The new sensors are characterized by miniaturization, digitization, intelligence, multi-functionalization, systematization, and networking. They not only promote the transformation of traditional industries, but also lead to the establishment of new industries. They are the new economic growth points in the 21st century. Miniaturization is based on micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) technology and has been successfully applied to form silicon pressure sensors on silicon devices.

Micro-electro-mechanical machining technologies include bulk micro-machining technology, surface micro-machining technology, LIGA technology (X-ray deep lithography, micro-electroforming and micro-replication technology), laser micro-machining technology and micro-encapsulation technology.

The development of MEMS has raised the level of miniaturization, intelligence, multi-functionality and reliability of sensors to a new level. Sensor detection instrument, based on microelectronic technology, built-in microprocessor, or micro-sensor and microprocessor and related integrated circuits (operational amplifier, A/D or D/A, memory, network communication interface circuit) Such as packaged together to complete the digital, intelligent, networked, systematic. (Note: MEMS technology also completes products such as micro-motors or actuators, which will be described in another article.) In terms of networking, currently it mainly refers to the use of multiple field buses and Ethernet (Internet), which must be selected according to the characteristics of each industry. Among them, one or more of the most popular in recent years are FF, Profibus, CAN, Lonworks, AS-Interbus, and TCP/IP.

In addition to MEMS, the development of new sensors also depends on new sensitive materials, sensitive components and nanotechnology, such as a new generation of fiber optic sensors, superconducting sensors, focal plane display infrared detectors, biosensors, nanosensors, new quantum sensors, micro-gyro , networked sensors, smart sensors, fuzzy sensors, multi-sensors, etc.

Multi-sensor data fusion technology is forming hotspots. It was formed in the 1980s. It differs from general signal processing and also differs from single or multiple sensor monitoring and measurement. It is based on measurement results based on multiple sensors. High-level integrated decision-making process. In view of the miniaturization and intelligentization of sensor technology, based on the information acquisition, multiple functions are further integrated, resulting in convergence. This is an inevitable trend, and multi-sensor data fusion technology has also promoted the development of sensor technology.

The definition of multi-sensor data fusion is summarized: the local data resources provided by multiple sensors of the same type or different types distributed at different positions are integrated and analyzed by computer technology to eliminate possible redundancy between multi-sensor information and Contradictions are complemented to reduce uncertainty and obtain consistent explanations and descriptions of measured objects, thereby improving the rapidity and correctness of system decision-making, planning, and response so that the system can obtain more adequate information. Its information fusion appears at different levels of information, including data layer (pixel layer) fusion, feature layer fusion, decision layer (evidence layer) fusion. Because it has the following advantages over single sensor information, that is, fault tolerance, complementarity, real-time, and economy, it is gradually applied. In addition to military applications, the application field has been applied to automation technology, robotics, marine surveillance, seismic observation, construction, air traffic control, medical diagnosis, and remote sensing technology.

China's sensor industry must adapt to the trend of technology and develop both internationally and domestically. This will allow sensors and instrumentation to seize the opportunity for informatization.