IoT Sensing and Actuation
Module 2 - Simplified with Visuals
Introduction
• IoT apps rely on sensing (input) & actuation (output)
• Sensing: Detects environment changes Diagram: Sensor →
Processor → Actuator
• Actuation: Produces physical actions
• Both based on transduction process
Sensors
• Devices measuring environment changes
• Convert stimuli → electrical signals Image: Examples of sensors
• Types: Active (self-powered), Passive (need power)
• Output: Analog (continuous) or Digital (discrete)
Sensor Characteristics
• Resolution – smallest detectable change
• Accuracy – closeness to true value Diagram: Accuracy vs
Precision
• Precision – repeatability of results
Sensorial Deviations
• Offset error (bias)
• Non-linearity, Drift, Noise Diagram: Sensor error
types
• Hysteresis (depends on past inputs)
• Quantization & Aliasing errors
Sensing Types
• Scalar: temp, pressure, humidity
• Multimedia: sound, images, video Diagram: Scalar vs
Multimedia vs Virtual
• Hybrid: mix of scalar + multimedia
• Virtual: inferred data without physical sensors
Sensing Considerations
• Sensing Range – detection limits
• Accuracy & Precision – application dependent
Image: Wearable sensor
• Energy – battery life critical
• Device Size – small for wearables
Actuators
• Convert signals → actions
• Controlled by signals (digital/analog) Diagram: Remote →
Processor → Actuator
• Perform mechanical tasks (move/change state)
Actuator Types
• Hydraulic – fluids, strong force
• Pneumatic – compressed air Image: Types of actuators
• Electric – motors, solenoids
• Thermal/Magnetic – smart materials
• Mechanical – gears, pulleys
• Soft – flexible polymers
• Shape Memory Polymers – change with stimuli
Actuator Characteristics
• Weight – light vs heavy use
• Power rating – operating safety range Diagram: Actuator
properties
• Torque/Weight ratio – sensitivity
• Stiffness vs Compliance – accuracy vs flexibility
