One of the main challenges facing homeland security is the constant need to detect and prevent the movement of radiological contraband across frontiers. Sensor manufacturers using versatile methods to adapt their products stand to gain by participating in the homeland transportation and logistics security efforts under way in the United States.

"Smart sensor manufacturers that design systems for supply chain management are a natural ally in this effort as they specialize in the development of wireless, real-time sensing systems that can monitor shipments around the world," says Technical Insights Research Analyst Michael Valenti.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology boosts the efficiency and remote sensing capabilities of sensor systems in tracking cargo and persons.

A leading American designer of supply chain sensors has integrated radiation detectors with RFID technology to detect radiation sources.

By linking the wireless sensor network to digital video cameras that are automatically triggered by alarms, the system transmits images of the suspect cargo, vehicles, or persons to the appropriate authorities.

Another major developer of battery-operated sensors recently launched a gamma radiation sensor. This cadmium zinc telluride (CZT)-based portable radiation sensor platform, also RFID-enabled, can detect low radiation levels in a container shipment. Requiring low power, it can operate for longer periods without maintenance.

Smart sensors' capability to have more intelligence built into them continues to drive their application in automotive, aerospace and defense, manufacturing, and medical fields.

Industries rely heavily on advanced sensor and control systems to ensure high productivity levels and low-cost operations to remain competitive in the increasingly complex global markets.

Intelligent sensor systems designed for harsh industrial environments can monitor and improve the performance of rotating machinery, pumps, compressors, and other automated equipment.

For instance, using sensor technology for vibration monitoring can actually drive down costs resulting from equipment failures.

"This is especially so in the expensive and demanding environments of some products, where production breakdowns can lead to losses in millions," says Valenti.

One of the strongest and most influential end-user segments for smart sensors is the medical market. Human biomonitoring is a promising field for smart sensors, which can continuously monitor a subject's vital signs, and alert professionals in real time.

This is already being used in artificial knee replacements, where a wireless piezoelectric sensor built into artificial knee senses forces inside a knee joint during normal human activities.

The sensor collects force data from strategically placed piezoelectric strips in the knee and transmits them to a computer for analysis.

Growth in the population of aging persons and a shortage of caregivers are expected to drive the opportunities of non-intrusive smart sensor surveillance systems that can help invalid or semi-invalid persons.

One system under development combines microphones and a slave computer that will detect and analyze sounds of distress in the homes of elderly or invalid residents. The system will sound an alarm to alert emergency medical personnel.

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