Description: An invasive sensor is a device that requires physical insertion into the environment being measured, allowing it to obtain data directly and accurately. Unlike non-invasive sensors, which can measure variables from a distance or without physical contact, invasive sensors are introduced into the medium they are monitoring, such as soil, water, or even the human body. This characteristic allows them to capture detailed and specific information, which is crucial in applications where precision is essential. Invasive sensors are vital in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental research. Their design can vary significantly depending on the application and may include elements such as electrodes, probes, or sampling devices. The ability of these sensors to provide real-time data makes them valuable tools in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT), where connectivity and data collection are fundamental for informed decision-making and process automation.
Uses: Invasive sensors are used in a variety of critical applications. In the medical field, they are employed to monitor physiological parameters, such as glucose levels in diabetic patients through implantable sensors. In agriculture, these sensors measure soil moisture and other nutrients, optimizing irrigation and fertilizer use. In the environmental field, they are used to analyze water and soil quality, providing essential data for conservation and resource management.
Examples: An example of an invasive sensor is the implantable glucose sensor, which allows diabetic patients to continuously monitor their blood sugar levels. Another example is the soil moisture sensor, which is inserted into agricultural land to provide accurate data on soil conditions, helping farmers make informed irrigation decisions. In the environmental field, water quality probes are used that are inserted into water bodies to measure pollutants and other critical parameters.
