Self-Monitoring, Self-Healing Biomorphic Sensor Technology

Abstract

The deployment of autonomous sensors within electronic systems for both existing and emerging markets requires an increase in the reliability, security and dependability of the associated data generated. The availability of intelligent sensors that can self-adapt and ultimately self-heal would be a key step towards this objective. This paper presents ideas associated with the utilisation of sensor self-test principles and software algorithms able to generate sensor prognostics and drive adaptation, compensation and self-healing functions. Major initiatives supported both within Europe and further afield to migrate processing power to the “Edge”, deploy 5G technologies and integrate Artificial Intelligence across the system hierarchy provide technological platforms to deliver many of these concepts. An example associated with simple printed electrodes targeting corrosion detection and potentially the detection of hydrogen is presented in the context of a step towards full biomorphic capability.