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Introduction
Sensors with electronic technology have been around for many decades with a single-sensing technology per device approach. Today sensor devices are available or becoming available with two or more sensor technologies in the same device. Such multi-tech devices can address sensor needs in a much smarter manner than was ever possible before. In some cases, multi-tech sensors are addressing sensing applications not previously possible before.
Voice recognition
Two German companies, Infineon Technologies AG and XMOS Ldt., have come together to develop and offer a new two technology voice recognition sensor. The device combines radar and a silicon microphone. The goal is to capture a specific voice from a collection of sounds and voices in the target area. The radar target presence detection provides the location of the desired sound source. Then the silicon microphone targets the specific source precisely, even if the source is moving or indistinctive noise is also present.
The radar device is a 60 GHz 2Tx/4Rx radar IC with an accompanying antenna. The microphone is a 70-dB signal to noise ratio (SNR) model which helps overcome the noise impediments. The microphone is based on a dual back plate microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. The SNR of the microphone also helps the performance.
An audio processor by XMOS analyses the signal data from the digital microphone and adjusts the microphone beam angle toward the target sound source. This combination of sensors and supporting electronics provides a sensor system superior to existing voice controlled devices while providing a clear understanding of commands and flawless execution the prevents unwanted activation. Visit www.infineon.com/5G for further information on this voice/radar sensor.
Sensor for maritime sailing and racing
AIRMAR® Technology Corporation has recently introduced a multi-technology sensor (DX900 + MultiLog Sensor) which captures a ship’s transverse and longitudinal speed using a dual axis electromagnetic log. The device also senses the water depth and the water temperature. Such better information provides the ship captain with the ability to better control the craft. For racing craft, this can be a very important benefit.
The water temperature sensor is fast response. A three-axis accelerometer monitors heel and trim. The device coupled with external computing power can output in real-time water temperature and depth, as well as the leeway angle and the...