How electronic sensors mirror nature

The field of electronic sensors has come a long way in recent years. From the early days of simple magnetic reed switches and electromechanical microswitches to the sophisticated microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) of today, sensors have become more capable, smaller, and more affordable.


One of the most interesting aspects of electronic sensors is how they mirror nature. Humans have at least nine senses, and other non-human organisms have even more, such as mantis shrimp with the most complex eyes known in the animal kingdom, or bats and dolphins using echolocation for navigation. Electronic sensors have also evolved to mimic many of these natural senses, such as optical sensors for vision, audio sensors for hearing, olfactory sensors for smelling, gustatory sensors for tasting, and tactile sensors for touch.


The Internet of Things (IoT) has played a major role in the development of these advanced sensors. The demand for connected devices has led to the creation of a wide variety of sensors that can be used for an array of applications. For example, 9 degrees of freedom (9DOF) MEMS sensors can be used as part of a robot’s proprioception and equilibrioception systems.


In addition to mimicking natural senses, electronic sensors can also provide new forms of "extrasensory perception" for robots, such as the ability to detect temperature, electric fields, or pressure changes. This opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for robots, such as the ability to detect crossed threads on a screw and nut, or monitor and control operations in remote locations.


In conclusion, electronic sensors have come a long way in recent years, mirroring many of the natural senses found in humans and other non-human organisms. The IoT has played a major role in driving the development of advanced sensors that are now smaller, more capable, and more affordable than ever before. As a result, robots and other electronic devices can now possess senses that humans do not possess, opening up a whole new realm of possibilities for the future.

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