Smart sensor
Smart Building Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work, published by the RIBA in 2024, states: ‘Often referred to as a smart sensor, an IOT (internet of things) sensor is a device that takes input from the physical environment and uses built-in computer resources to perform predefined functions upon detection of specific input and then process data before passing it on. For example a smart sensor can count the number of occupants in a space and trigger the lights to flash if the room becomes over-occupied.’
There were 15 billion smart sensor units shipped in 2015, and the smart sensor market is set to exceed USD 80 billion by 2024
Growing demand for smart electronics and wearable devices in consumer electronics is driving the smart sensor market across the globe. Increasing investment and reduced development costs for speed and accuracy will be achieved through measurement methods with innovative manufacturing technologies, high-tech signal processing methods and high performance.
Technological advancements have led to substantial miniaturisation of sensors, making them cost-effective, and efficient, and this is expected to drive further market growth. The growing implementation of MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) technology has led to adoption in aviation, automotive, consumer electronics, and healthcare industries.
High demand for smart wearable devices and the IoT (Internet of Things) is contributing to the growth of MEMS technology. Commoditisation of the technology is expected to ensure increased usage in the automotive, industrial, medical, semiconductor and telecommunications industries. Technological advancements in MEMS technology such as sensor fusion is also expected to drive the smart sensor market.
The automotive smart sensor market share is predicted to grow considerably over the next few years. Automatic climate control in vehicles, achieved by using smart sensors, can help control cooling systems and improve passenger comfort. In addition, they can be incorporated within air-conditioned seats to control humidity and temperature and help reduce the overall energy consumption.
North America dominates the smart sensor market due to the increasing demand for IoT and smart homes and the presence of major industry players in the region. The APAC ( Asia Pacific Countries) smart sensor market is primarily driven by India, Japan and China, due to developing infrastructure and government initiatives to support projects such as smart cities and homes. India serves as the manufacturing base for various consumer electronics and automotive verticals which will further drive regional demand.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
ECA's reflections on Party Conference season
Burnham wants to be confident of winning before asking for a fresh mandate.
New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser
Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University.
Building safety levy for England
CIAT publish estimator tool for members.
Water sector faces a growing crisis that could slow the delivery of vital infrastructure.
Undervaluing our industrial past
Heritage value changes as taste for building styles changes.
















