Sensing the World Around Us

Sensors are everywhere – embedded in our phones, cars, homes, and even our bodies. These tiny devices detect changes in their environment and quietly power everything from traffic lights to industrial automation. As technology evolves, so does the role of sensors, helping us work smarter, live safer, and better understand the world around us.

The scale of sensor data

At its core, a sensor is a device that detects change in its environment and communicates that information.

Sensors are generating more than 402.74 million terabytes of data per day.

According to Roots Analysis, the global sensors market is expected to grow from USD 239.87 billion in 2024 to USD 595.53 billion by 2035, with biosensors currently driving the fastest growth.

Humans: The original sensors

Long before modern technology, nature equipped us with a powerful sensory system. Traditionally, humans are thought to have five senses: smell, touch, taste, sight, and hearing.

These senses help us detect changes, like temperature shifts or unusual sounds, and respond quickly. In many ways, we’re essentially walking, talking sensors, constantly processing information, and reacting to our environment. Our natural abilities have inspired the development of artificial sensors that now extend and enhance our interactions with the world.

Sensors are everywhere

You’re surrounded by sensors more than you might realize:

• Cars: 60 to 100 sensors, with 15-30 just in the engine

• Cellphones: 12-18 sensors, including gyroscopes

• Traffic intersections: detect cars to control traffic lights

• Everyday life: sensors monitor snoring, control coffee machines, and track pets

Sensor extremes

• The largest camera sensor array is 3.2 gigapixels (using 189 separate 16MP sensors)

• The smallest sensor, the vision sensor, measures just 0.575 mm x 0.575 mm x 0.232 mm 

• Quantum sensors detect changes at atomic or subatomic levels

• Glucose sensors can be worn on the skin

• Sensors can even warn you if your freezer is left open

• Or monitor seismic activity deep in the ocean

Industrial sensors

There are many types of industrial sensors, each designed to detect specific physical properties, and many have subcategories based on application, range, or environment. These sensors play a critical role in machine automation, quality control, safety, efficiency, and productivity in manufacturing and lab environments. Common industrial sensors include:

• Inductive sensors detect metal objects without contact.

• Proximity sensors detect nearby objects without physical contact.

• Capacitive sensors detect both metal and non-metallic materials by measuring changes in capacitance.

• Magnetic field sensors detect position or rotation through magnetic fields.

• Ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to measure distance or detect objects.

• Magnetically coded sensors enable high-precision position detection through the use of magnetic codes.

• Magnetorestrictive sensors accurately measure linear position without contact.

• Inclination sensors measure the tilt or angle of an object relative to gravity.

• Pressure sensors monitor air, gas, or fluid pressure in systems.

• Flow sensors measure the movement of liquids or gases.

• Position indicators display the machine or part's position.

• Encoders translate motion into digital signals for control.

Whether you’re on your phone, driving your car, or designing a production line, there is a sensor at work. You might not see it, but it’s there, quietly doing its job.