In a general sense, Smart Sensors meld sensor, signal processing, and computer technologies to create new functionalities such as the ability to probe the environment and modify sensor function in order to improve their data gathering capability. Applications envisioned by this Center span medicine, precision agriculture, electronics manufacturing, wireless communication, transportation and radar.

The Center for Smart Sensors focuses on two core technologies
which have the greatest commercial potential:

1. Circuitry for measuring length, distance or impedance; this enables a Smart Wire inspection system that can detect and locate faults or insulation breaks in aircraft wiring in real time.
2. Imbedded Microstrip Antenna (IMA), which can sense or communicate in a buried environment.

Both families of technologies are based on simple ideas and simple circuits that result in two critical characteristics -- Small and Cheap. This makes them applicable to a wide array of applications.

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Highlights

• Single IMA antenna can both sense and communicate
• 12 pending patents
• 1 issued patent
• Commercialization of aircraft wiring fault detection has over $1MM in funding from FAA and aircraft firms

Spin Out Companies

• LiveWire Test Labs, Inc.
• RF Sensor Innovations

Benefiting Companies

Center's University Website and Contact Information