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60 SMT007 MAGAZINE I OCTOBER 2025 Sensors in Defense and Navigation Advanced sensors such as radar systems, image- processing cameras, and other high-precision tech- nologies—combined with cutting-edge algorithms— provide a significant strategic edge in defense and navigation. These systems enhance a country's capabilities in surveillance, threat detection, target- ing, and autonomous decision-making. Natural Disaster Prediction and Response Sensors play a vital role in predicting natural disas- ters and calamities, enabling local authorities to plan and execute timely disaster response strategies. By monitoring environmental parameters in real time, sensors can provide early warnings for events such as sea storms, tsunamis, and earthquakes. These warnings are crucial for directing sea traffic, evacuat- ing vulnerable areas, and minimizing loss of life and property. Deployed in remote and harsh envi- ronments—like ocean floors, fault lines, and volcanic zones—these sensors operate contin- uously to collect critical data that enhances our abil- ity to anticipate and respond to natural threats effectively. Recent AI Trends in Sensor Technologies Modern advancements in AI are significantly enhancing the capabilities of sensors, making them smarter, faster, and more adaptive. Recent AI trends emphasizing sensors: • Low-latency sensor SoCs: These systems- on-chip enable real-time decision-mak- ing with built-in self-validation and adaptive learning, crucial for time-sensitive applica- tions like autonomous vehicles and robotics. • Neuromorphic and edge AI sensors: Inspired by the human brain's neural net- works, these sensors support on-device learning and decision-making, reducing the need for cloud processing and enabling faster, more efficient responses. • On-chip AI for enhanced image processing: Integrated AI capabilities allow for advanced functions such as emotion detection, facial recognition, object sensing and tracking, and the creation of controlled access environments, all processed directly on the sensor chip. • Software-defined sensors: These sensors are programmable and updatable via soft- ware, allowing for post-deployment cus- tomization, reduced hardware dependency, and rapid innovation cycles. Sensors: The Silent Architects of Modern Life Sensors quietly power many essential tasks, from parking cars and securing homes to optimizing industrial throughput and enabling critical systems like aviation and medical devices. These tiny yet powerful components work behind the scenes to make life easier, safer, and more efficient. They will play an even greater role in shap- ing a smarter, more connected world, one where machines intuitively understand our needs and respond in real time. For the average person, this translates to enhanced convenience, improved health, and greater peace of mind, all thanks to the invisible wizardry of sensors that operate seam- lessly without us even noticing. SMT007 Resources 1. "Significance of sensors for industry 4.0: Roles, capabilities, and applications," by M. Javaid, et al., Sensors International, 2, 2020. 2. "Predictive Maintenance and Intelligent Sen- sors in Smart Factory: Review," by M. Pech, et al., Sensors, 2020. 3. "Advances in Sensor Technologies in the Era of Smart Factory and Industry 4.0," by T. Kal- soom, et al., Sensors, 2019. 4. "Towards intelligent industrial systems: A comprehensive survey of sensor fusion tech- niques in IIoT" by D. Sharma, et al., Measure- ment: Sensors, 2024. Sanjeev Mane is a senior manager in electrical engineering at Brooks Automation with nearly 20 years of experience in robotics, PCB design, and embedded systems. S anje ev Mane