Zero-power sensor listens for sounds

Scientists with the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory have invented a new sensor technology that consumes essentially zero power during standby states.

The microelectromechanical system (MEMS) activates only when it receives the right kind of acoustic signals.

“Sensors constantly consume power, with much of that power spent processing what often turns out to be irrelevant data or noise,” said Jonathan Bernstein, a microelectromechanical engineer at Draper.

“We solved that by designing a zero-power acoustic wake-up switch actuated by environmental sounds that will enable sensor systems to last for years, limited only by battery discharge rates.”

The technology could help extend battery life by conserving energy and reducing drain, a beneficial feature for both Internet of Things devices and unattended ground sensors, the researchers said in paper submitted to the Journal of Microelectromechanical Systems.

“One area where sensor systems need to advance is power consumption and battery life,” said Marc Weinberg, design engineer in Draper’s Mechanical Engineering and System Packaging division.

“As sensors move into more applications, from the military, to our homes, to the Internet of Things, there’s a search on for ways to optimise battery consumption. We believe an acoustic wake-up switch shows promise for the future of sensors.”

Pictured: The new sensor developed by Draper.

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