Non-Destructive Monitoring of Connected Sensors Now Possible

Non-Destructive Monitoring of Connected Sensors Now Possible

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Connected devices (IoT) that are now in widespread use include wireless equipment, autonomous machinery, wearable sensors, security systems, and more. They have to be scrutinized closely to assess their safety and utility and rule out any potential defects. But, at the same time, damage to the device during inspection must be avoided. Non-destructive methods are required for attaining information about complex devices.

Terahertz (THz) imaging, based on radiation with frequencies between 0.1 and 10 THz, is one such non-destructive method that is rapidly gaining popularity owing to its high penetration, resolution, and sensitivity. Conventional THz cameras, however, are bulky and rigid, thereby limiting their potential in imaging uneven surfaces. Moreover, their high cost and lack of versatility in sensor configurations make them a rather impractical alternative, calling for more adaptable sensors.

A team of researchers from Tokyo Tech is addressing this gap by designing a flexible and free standing THz sensor array that can be used to image blind ends of irregularly shaped objects.

As research leader, Dr. Yukio Kawano explains, “given the diversity in shapes, structures, and sizes of test objects, the camera design and sensor must be adapted to conform to different configurations. In our study, we have developed a simple and cost-effective fabrication method for generating THz cameras with adaptable shapes.”

The technology can be used for the imaging of large and unmovable objects. The unique 2D THz camera patch can ease restrictions pertaining to the shapes and locations of objects, contributing significantly to non-destructive monitoring sensor networks, according to eurekalert.org.

The research findings were published in Advanced Functional Materials.